In 2012 at the age of 17, Kyle Pfohl wanted to do something to raise money for cancer patients in his hometown of Fredericksburg, Virginia. He met with Dr. Charles Maurer of Hematology-Oncology Associates of Fredericksburg and was made aware that there was a need for money to stay locally to help cancer patients. Kyle, an avid runner, decided that creating a road race would help raise money for local cancer patients who might not be able to afford treatments or medications. Kyle started this race also in honor of his mother, Annette Pfohl, a seven-time breast cancer survivor since 2005. The inaugural Battling Cancer 5k Run/Walk began in 2012 on Father's Day and continues to occur annually with great success. 

 

Through partnership with Mary Washington Hospital Foundation the idea became a reality. Mary Washington Hospital Foundation, a non-profit organization, oversees the funds raised by the race. All of the money raised stays local to the Fredericksburg area and benefits the Mary Washington Healthcare Regional Cancer Center. With the help of Nate Brooks of VA Runner, Vic Culp of Race Timing Unlimited and Mary Washington Hospital Foundation, the race became complete. Mary Washington Hospital Foundation also provides adminstrative support. VA Runner provides the racing bibs and gift certificates/prizes for the age group winners. Race Timing Unlimited provides the online registration, chip timing and USATF Certified course.

 

Because of Kyle's idea, currently $67,507 has been raised for the Mary Washington Healthcare Regional Cancer Center and all of the cancer patients in the local area of Fredericksburg.