At first glance, it may seem that UnitedHealthcare's support of the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure - as Presenting Sponsor of both the Children's FunFest and the brand-new Kids for the Cure®: UnitedHealthcare Dash to Make a Difference - is all about showing the 'under 12' generation a fun time on Race day. However a slightly more guided look quickly demonstrates UnitedHealthcare's sponsorships are more about supporting both adults and youth in the breast cancer movement... and uniting them in the journey to the cures.

Thanks to the support and vision of UnitedHealthcare, for the first time ever, the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure^® will hold a run for children aged 3-12 on May 13, the Kids for the Cure: UnitedHealthcare Dash to Make a Difference.

More than a fun activity for kids at the Race, The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate and UnitedHealthcare developed The Dash to address a growing need for children to feel comfortable discussing the role breast cancer plays in their lives... and confident they'll never be alone with their fears.

While some may have asked, "Is it really necessary - or even appropriate - for kids this young to talk about breast cancer?" The Affiliate and UnitedHealthcare knew how important The Dash is. That is, with one woman diagnosed every two minutes, the number of children who either lost loved ones to breast cancer or experienced them in treatment is staggering, 

"The noble gesture of parents, grandparents, older siblings, etc. to 'protect' their children by not talking about it can actually cause more harm. Instead, by embracing youngsters in the hope we have, we can do a good deal of good," said Elaine I. Grobman, CEO of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. " More than 2 million breast cancer survivors live in the U.S. Scientific advancements make treatment more effective. Just because your friend's mom had breast cancer, doesn't mean your friend will too. Sharing such hopeful news can go a long way in dispelling the darkness children experience when they think about breast cancer."

The UnitedHealthcare Dash to Make a Difference will give children a sense of togetherness, support and empowerment on their own level. Every participant must be registered for the Race and accompanied by an adult loved one to embrace them at the finish, and all participants are winners... with everyone receiving a medal. The Dash will conclude with a celebration of all children's power to make a difference. The party will include music and a feast of goodies from Wawa and Dietz and Watson.

To encourage Dash participation, The Affiliate and UnitedHealthcare have also selected 'Kid Ambassadors' representing each of the fifteen counties in our service area. Among other things, Ambassadors will lead participants in a parade from Eakins Oval to the Dash site at Von Colln Playground.

For all they are doing during Race season to empower children... and the adults who love them...  we are proud to put UnitedHealthcare in the "spotlight" and thank them for their dedication to stop at nothing until all generations are living in a world without breast cancer.

DASH FACTS

• Open to all children ages 3-12 years who are registered for the Race; no additional fee
• At least one adult must be registered for the Race and attend the Dash with his/her child(ren)
• Location: Von Colln Park and Playground (walking distance from the Race site and 23rd & Ben Franklin Parkway)
• Parade of Participants from Eakins to the Park, led by the Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church Trinity Drum Line
• Start time: 10:00 AM, after the main Race event
• Separate heats, based on age
• Everyone's a winner!  All participants will receive a commemorative medal, special Dash/Race t-shirt, treats from Dietz & Watson and Wawa, and other fun surprises.