Run for Sally raises 2K

U. S. Air Force Capt. Kurt Helfrich, his mother-in-law Sally Timpner, and his wife Ashley, pose for a photo Aug. 10, 2012, near the banks of the Snake River in Idaho. Helfrich and other members from his squadron participated in the Run for Sally, raising more than $2,000 toward brain cancer research. (Courtesy photo)

Run for Sally raises $2,000

Published Dec. 4, 2012
By Senior Airman Benjamin Sutton
366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- More than 40 Airmen from MHAFB participated in the Run for Sally 5K Dec. 1, 2012, to show support for a fellow Airman and his crusade to fight cancer.

Capt. Kurt Helfrich, 366th Operations Support Squadron deputy chief of intelligence training, decided to put a fun-run together to help raise money for his mother-in-law's treatment.

"In October of 2011, my mother-in-law, Sally, was diagnosed with stage-four glioblastoma cancer meaning there were tumors actually in her brain," said Helfrich. "It's the most common type of brain cancer but unfortunately it's also the most aggressive."

She immediately began chemotherapy and radiation treatments for her condition.

"She had an operation to remove the tumors as well as radiation and chemotherapy but eventually they came back and she is currently in her second round of treatment," said Helfrich.

He described the impact this situation has had on his family as overwhelming.

"Finding a cure for this disease is extremely personal for me," said Helfrich. "It's my job to support, love and comfort my wife while her mom is going through this ordeal. One of the most tangible ways I can do that is by putting on this event."

Helfrich reached out to the 366th Force Support Squadron for logistical advice and assistance.

"I have received a ton of assistance from the 366th Force Support Squadron and of course the Airmen from my shop," said Helfrich. "I'm also working with a nonprofit group called Voices Against Brain Cancer, which is a private organization that raises money to help fund brain cancer research, clinical drug trials and assist families that are affected by this disease."

According to the VABC website, their mission is to find a cure for brain cancer by advancing scientific research, increasing awareness within the medical community and supporting patients, their families and caregivers afflicted with this devastating disease.

"The VABC Run for Sally gave everyone an opportunity to take time out of their weekend to pause and reflect on a disease which has probably taken at least one loved one from every Gunfighter," said Master Sgt. Brian Chris, 366th OSS intelligence superintendent. "I had the pleasure of meeting his mother-in-law, Sally, when she came here to visit. She is an extremely strong and happy woman, very upbeat, and sets a great example of not letting brain cancer control how she lives her life."

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Run for Sally raises 2K

Run for Sally raises $2,000

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