The Champion the Cure Challenge returns to Brewer on Aug. 16

BANGOR, Maine (WABI) - On Aug. 16, an annual event that raises money and spirits returns to Brewer.

The Champion the Cure Challenge is a run, walk, and cycle event that raises money for treatment and research at Northern Light Cancer Care.

“All of the funds raised stay here at the center for our patients specifically. So, you know that every dollar raised, every fundraiser that we’re doing here in clinic as a team all stays to help our patients locally,” said Angel Francini, nurse manager at Northern Light Cancer Care.

The money raised helps people like Adrian Ellingwood, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2022.

“Since then, my life just changed kind of forever,” said Adrian.

Adrian received treatment at the Lafayette Cancer Center and noted how important it was for him to be close to home during his battle.

“Being able to go home every day to, you know, my dog especially, he helped me through this. But just knowing that it’s not far from home, and if I ever have any troubles or there’s anything wrong, I’m not far from home,” Adrian said.

Adrian also credits the staff at the center for making him feel at home during his treatment.

“I’ll be forever thankful for that,” said Adrian.

Adrian will be volunteering at the event that doesn’t just raise money, it raises hope as well.

“This is challenging and empowering at the same time, I think anytime you have that kind of a situation with a community, a whole community, it gives a sense of hope, and this is this is what cancer patients need. And it’s very important to our community to have opportunities to do things like this,” said Angela Ellingwood, Adrian’s mother.

If you’d like to register for the Champion the Cure Challenge you can do so by clicking here.