Anna Bax is a junior at Tulane University. In the summer of 2019, she will be traveling with a group of college-aged students on a 49-day, 4000+ mile run from San Francisco to Baltimore, raising money and awareness for the Ulman Foundation.

What is your connection to the cancer community?

Unfortunately, we all know someone who has been drastically harmed by cancer. When I was young my grandfather, Robert Bax was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and died three months later at the age of 64. Although I have no memories of my grandpa, his memory lives on through photos and stories. At family gatherings, we often share stories of his life. I realized how much I missed out by his passing. I wish he could be here today.

My grandmother, Mary Catherine Counts was diagnosed with colon cancer. After surgery and chemotherapy, her life was never the same. Due to the surgical removal of much of her intestines, she suffered years of gastrointestinal complications. She passed away when I was 4 years old. I am fortunate to have great memories of her. She was kind, loving and always had a smile for me.

I know many people share similar stories with me. Stories of loved ones being taking from us too soon. My grandparents' journeys have inspired me to embark on this incredible adventure this summer. I want to run towards a cure for cancer. I am dedicating my trip across the United States to my grandparents.

Why are you traveling 4,000 miles this summer with the Ulman Foundation?

I discovered my love for running freshman year of high school when I joined the Villa Duchesne Cross Country and Track team. At first, I found this sport extremely difficult. It was hard to run a mile without taking a break. I am so happy I stuck with it because running has helped me grow as a person, both mentally and physically. I am so thankful for the opportunities running has given me. My health and my ability to run is something I never want to take for granted because I know this is a privilege not everyone gets. I want to run for those who cannot. I hope that by running across the USA, I can be an advocate for those fighting this horrible disease. Let's make a difference, and be the generation to end cancer! I am truly honored to be part of Ulman 4K.

2019 marks the 18th year of the 4K for Cancer sending young adults on journeys across the country in an effort to inspire hope and unite communities in the fight against cancer. The 4K for Cancer is a program of the Ulman Foundation (Ulman). Interested in joining the fight? Apply to be a rider or runner a at www.4kforcancer.org! 

CHALLENGE:

Over 72,000 young adults are diagnosed with cancer every year. Young adults (ages 15-39) face a variety of unique challenges with a cancer diagnosis including fertility preservation, social isolation, lack of insurance, delayed diagnosis, and more. 

SOLUTION:

Ulman Foundation changes lives by creating a community of support for young adults, and their loved ones, impacted by cancer. With your support, Ulman is able to provide free support services and resources for the young adult cancer community including:

Cancer to 5K - a 12-week training program designed to introduce or reintroduce cancer survivors to physical activity.

Patient Navigation - a free program (onsite at cancer centers and remotely through our office) that ensures no young adult ever faces cancer alone. We provide one-on-one support & resources to young adults and their families to help them manage the cancer experience and long-term cancer survival.

Scholarships - a financial assistance program to help young adults continue their education after being affected by cancer through their own diagnosis or the diagnosis of a loved one.

Ulman House - This year Ulman will open a “home away from home” to provide free housing for young adult cancer patients, and their caregivers, in East Baltimore. 

Your donation will help make these programs and our mission possible!