Community members laced up and took to downtown Phoenix and the area around Chase Field for the 13th annual Diamondbacks and Dignity Health 5K Race Against Cancer, a three-mile event aimed at raising money for cancer research, treatment programs and health screenings across Arizona.
The race brought together runners, walkers and cancer survivors, many of whom came with personal reasons for being there. Dr. Douglas Ross with Dignity Health said the event gives people a chance to stand together against the disease.
"It's a great opportunity for people to come out and really show our support against this terrible disease. We've got loved ones affected by cancers, survivors and patients in the midst of their cancer battle," said Dr. Douglas Ross with Dignity Health.
Ross said the event continues to build momentum each year.
"It grows every single year, and it's a really fun day and a great cause. We're so appreciative of the Dbacks, it really shows, to beat this disease, we're not gonna do it in isolation, we're gonna do it as a community and I think this is a great example of how we're gonna fight this disease," Ross said.
For some participants, the cause was deeply personal. Donovan Sullivan said he has run the race twice before and appreciated the atmosphere.
"It's for a good cause, we're excited to be here," Sullivan said.
Others were running in honor of family members affected by cancer. Malachi McCormick said, "My grandma has breast cancer, so this is for her,"
Justin Miller, taking part for the first time with his daughter, said cancer has affected his family in more ways than one.
"We've had some family members who've had cancer, and we've lost some loved ones as well, so to show her it's part of life, unfortunately, the more we learn, educate ourselves and better ourselves," Miller said.
Annette Mendez also shared a personal connection to the race.
"Being a breast cancer survivor and my son just passed from colon cancer in April of 2026..." Mendez said.
Mendez said the event matters because early screening and access to health resources can make a difference.
"It's very important, crazy, because at a young age we don't get screenings until we get older, and being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 43, then my son at 42. That everybody should get some screening for your health. You should use these resources available to you," Mendez said.
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