The first annual Mesothelioma Race for Justice 5K made an impact in September 2018 by raising more than $6,300 for the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF). Hosted by Chicago asbestos litigation law firm Vogelzang Law, the race shed light on the rare and aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.

“Because mesothelioma only affects 3,500 people a year compared to breast cancer or lung cancer, which [affects] hundreds of thousands [of people], it’s hard to get funding. Research money is so important,” says Nicholas Vogelzang, lead counsel.

The inaugural event hosted more than 100 participants at the Lake County Half Day Forest Preserve in Vernon Hills, Illinois. Proceeds support MARF’s initiatives, which includes research funding and the development of educational tools. As the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to finding a cure for mesothelioma, MARF helps build a better future for families affected by the disease.

“I am so lucky to have been given the opportunity to raise money for such a worthy cause,” says race director Mirela Stefanescu. “Knowing [about the foundation’s work] makes it all worthwhile.” The race brought families together, many of whom have lost loved ones and worked with Vogelzang Law to seek justice. “Any way we can help is important,” Vogelzang says.