EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Absolutely incredible. That is how The Tomorrow Fund Executive Director Lisa Abbenante described the donation made to the children’s charity on behalf of the Mark Palumbo Memorial University Orthopedics 5K.
The third running of the 5K held in September raised $45,000, beating last year’s amount of $40,000. The Palumbo family and University Orthopedics presented The Tomorrow Fund with the proceeds during a check presentation this week at the practice’s Kettle Point location in East Providence.
“Last year we thought the amount raised was tremendous. And to not just match but surpass that amount, there really are no words to say how appreciative we really are,” said Lisa Abbenante, executive director of The Tomorrow Fund. “We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without the help of people and organizations like University Orthopedics, the Palumbo family, and all of the participants and businesses who supported this event. We are truly grateful.”
The Tomorrow Fund provides support to families of children being treated for cancer at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, helping cover bigger expenses like housing, utilities, and travel expenses, to paying for smaller costs like hospital parking. The Fund also provides support programs and scholarship opportunities to survivors and will cover funeral expenses for children who lose their courageous battle.
The third annual Mark Palumbo Memorial University Orthopedics 5K was held on September 18 along the picturesque East Bay Bike Path. It is named in honor of Dr. Mark Palumbo, a renowned University Orthopedics spine surgeon who passed away in 2019. In addition to being a highly regarded doctor, he was also extremely active in the community. The Palumbo family has supported The Tomorrow Fund and held active roles with the Providence, RI-based charity for many years.
Anne Palumbo, Dr. Palumbo’s wife took an active role in planning this year’s event along with her daughter, Kristen, and son, Mark Jr.
“The Palumbo family is grateful for the friends and family who traveled near and far, members of the community, and our family at University Orthopedics for not only helping us keep Mark’s memory and legacy alive but also supporting The Tomorrow Fund’s vital services,” Mrs. Palumbo said. “The emotional stress of caring for a child battling cancer is inevitable, but the financial stress doesn’t have to be. We’re glad that the funds we helped raise in Mark’s memory will help families focus on one thing – caring for their child. We can’t wait until next year.”
From Gray Matter Marketing, which handled race-day operations, to local businesses and organizations which made monetary and raffle donations, University Orthopedics’ partners were once again vital to the success of this event.
“Three years ago, our practice was shaken by the loss of our colleague and friend, Dr. Mark Palumbo. It means so much that we’re able to pay tribute to this incredible man while also helping The Tomorrow Fund carry out its mission of assisting children with cancer and their families,” said University Orthopedics President Dr. Edward Akelman. “This event continues to be a huge success thanks to continued support from dozens of partners.”
More than 300 people took part in the Mark Palumbo Memorial University Orthopedics 5K. Mike Macedo finished first overall, with a time of 17:02. Bri Bintz won the women’s race with a time of 22:14. Their names will be placed on a plaque that was dedicated in Dr. Palumbo’s name prior to the start of the race.
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.