Simmons Law Firm Presents Second 'Miles for Meso' Walk/Run Fundraiser for Mesothelioma Research

The Simmons firm sponsored the first annual Miles for Meso event September 26 in Alton, Ill. Nearly 500 runners and walkers registered, and through matching donations by the Simmons firm raised approximately $30,000.
"We're excited that so many people, with so many options to run or walk in events for other causes, supported Miles for Meso," said Chairman and CEO John Simmons. "We really were pleased by the support of our Metro East neighbors. Now, with the help of our friend Julie Gundlach, we hope to achieve the same results in St. Louis. Our simple goals are to make people aware of mesothelioma and generate funds for critical research."
Gundlach, who has been living with mesothelioma cancer since 2006 and participated in the Alton event, is helping lead the St. Louis event. Ghisallo Running is helping to coordinate the event.
Gundlach plans to run in the 5K for runners and walkers that will begin at Centennial Commons. "Unfortunately, mesothelioma is now everyone's problem," she said. "It's my hope that, through events like this, people come to start to understand that this is a preventable disease, and that we need the help of everyone to educate and raise money for research."
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. The Simmons firm's sponsorship includes matching and donating 100 percent of all entry fees to the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, a national nonprofit dedicated to funding critical research for better treatment options and, ultimately, to find a cure for mesothelioma.
The "Miles for Meso" event is open to participants of all ages. Prizes will be awarded to the top runners: the top three finishers in the men's and women's categories, including gift certificates to the Ghisallo's Running Store, credit towards a membership to Centennial Commons, and more. All participants will be eligible for five $100 drawings and other giveaways. The registration fee is $15 on or before October 1, $20 after October 1, and $25 for registration onsite the day of the race.
"The need for mesothelioma education, awareness, and research has never been more urgent," Simmons said. "Our firm is committed to funding research and building awareness about the disease so that we can assist in providing the needed critical help for families throughout Illinois, Missouri, and the entire country."


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