Stetson’s vibrant community made itself present in the Me Strong 5k — fundraising, supporting and honoring community members and their families in their fight against cancer.   

On Saturday, Feb. 1, DeLand hosted the 14th annual Me Strong Run and Walk event, which consisted of a 5-kilometer route throughout the city’s historical downtown and the Stetson campus.   

The event had over 6,000 participants running and/or walking, and several local businesses offering breakfast and water.   

Stetson’s presence was felt throughout the event, as Hatters were out in full force representing their Stetson pride as runners and supporters. Several sports teams, Greek Life organizations and clubs showed up to keep the spirit alive throughout the race.   

Cross Country team member and first-time Me Strong runner Eduardo Diaz Deanda (15:26) was the first to cross the finish line. 

“I wanted to run a race with all my friends cheering me on and being able to run through the streets of DeLand,” said Diaz Deanda, a junior majoring in Health Science. “I also wanted to dedicate my run to all my fellow Latinos in America to show them that anything is possible.”  

Senior Alex Douma, who is majoring in Communications and Media Studies with a minor in Journalism, participated in the event for the third year in a row.

“It feels great to know that I’m able to do my own small part to help those who are ailing, just by completing a 5k,” he said. “It’s also quite wonderful to see the spirit and pride of the city of DeLand on race day.”

The goal of Me Strong is to show support to cancer patients in Florida, raise funds and provide assistance to local individuals navigating life with a cancer diagnosis.  

Senior Zoe White, a member of Zeta Tau Alpha at Stetson who is majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology, ran the race in honor of her dad, who is currently battling Stage IV colon cancer.

“I Facetimed my dad while I ran the last half mile and let him cross the finish line with me,” she said.  “He was almost in tears seeing everyone supporting a cause that we hold so close to our hearts.”  

Linda Ryan, one of the 5k race/walk organizers, thanked everyone for their presence, from runners who participated to the people working behind the scenes who helped make the event happen.

“Every single person who participated made a difference in the life of somebody living with cancer,” she said. “And that’s what we’re here for.”   

Dr. Raul Storey, an oncologist for the Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, explained that the foundation supports over 9,000 patients undergoing cancer treatment in Florida.

“Every single person that was there was supporting those patients,” he said.   

Chris Cloudman ’12, Mayor of DeLand, invited the participants to explore the city after the race; “Every day is a great day in DeLand but today is even more special.”    

– Alicia Ferreira