EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Hundreds of runners and walkers came together for the 2026 Mark Palumbo Memorial University Orthopedics 5K, but for many, the event was about much more than crossing a finish line.
It was a morning to remember a beloved physician and friend, support children and families facing cancer, and see the lasting impact one person can have on a community.
“People are not only lacing up their shoes to come here and run a 5K, they’re coming here to support a legacy of an incredible man,” Lisa Hainse, Executive Director of The Tomorrow Fund, told the crowd before the race.
The annual event honors the late Dr. Mark Palumbo and benefits The Tomorrow Fund at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, which provides financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families.
For Dr. Palumbo’s family, the 5K provides a special opportunity to see his legacy continue through a cause that reflects the values that were important to him.
“This day, every year, is the one time we can tangibly feel him and the reach he had on this community,” said Mark Palumbo, Jr., Dr. Palumbo’s son and University Orthopedics Marketing Outreach Manager. “The Tomorrow Fund, we’re almost able to capitalize on all the good he did and funnel that into such a great organization that shares similar values and mission as my dad.”
The impact of that support was especially clear through the story shared by one family at this year’s event.
Chris Falzone, a Tomorrow Fund parent, explained that two of his three children are leukemia survivors. Both received treatment through The Tomorrow Fund Clinic at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, as well as care at University Orthopedics.
“During our family’s battles with cancer, The Tomorrow Fund stood with us every step of that journey, and beyond,” Falzone said. “Please know that running today, you’re helping to directly support families like ours.”
Money raised through the 5K helps The Tomorrow Fund support families during what can be one of the most difficult periods of their lives.
For University Orthopedics, the annual event has become a way to turn the tremendous impact Dr. Palumbo had on his patients, colleagues, friends, and community into meaningful support for another generation of local families.
“Thank you for showing up, for caring, and for giving kids like ours a better tomorrow,” Falzone said.
Even if you weren’t able to participate this year, there’s still time to make a difference by donating directly to The Tomorrow Fund »
About Mark Palumbo Memorial University Orthopedics 5K
The Mark Palumbo Memorial University Orthopedics 5K is named in honor of Dr. Mark Palumbo, a renowned spine surgeon who passed away in September 2019. He was not only a beloved member of the University Orthopedics family, but he was also a highly regarded pillar of the community.
The 5K raises money for The Tomorrow Fund, a non-profit organization that provides financial and emotional support for children being treated for cancer at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, as well as their families. The Palumbo family has supported The Tomorrow Fund and held active roles with the Providence, RI-based charity for many years.