Chandler resident Martha Castro likes to say her son, Anthony Paoletti, is an “old soul.” He was just 3 1/2 years old when he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common childhood cancer. The experience forced him to grow up and adjust to a challenging journey of hospital visits, intense treatment and seclusion from extended family and friends. Now at age 7, Anthony is in remission, and he is this year’s race starter for Children’s Cancer Network’s 14th Annual Run to Fight Children’s Cancer on Sunday, April 21.
The popular fundraising event, which celebrates survivorship and honors those who have lost their battle, is open to participants of all ages and all levels, including elite runners, joggers and walkers. The event features a 10K run, a 5K run, a Cancer Survivor Walk and the option to participate as a virtual runner. With the 10K starting at 7:30 a.m. and the 5K starting at 7:45 a.m., there should be plenty of time to cheer on those participating in the Cancer Survivor Walk, which starts at 9 a.m. and is a celebratory walk around a small pond within the park. Mesa’s Riverview Park is located at the northwest corner of Dobson Road and Rio Salado Parkway.
Children’s Cancer Network (CCN) Executive Director and Co-founder Patti Luttrell said the annual run has grown to be one of the nonprofit’s largest events. She explained that CCN is committed to helping children and families from the initial diagnosis through all stages of their cancer journey. CCN’s support extends to siblings, parents and other family members.
“We provide financial assistance, promote education, encourage healthy lifestyles, build self-esteem and help others understand what it’s like for a family to battle childhood cancer. Most importantly, our support doesn’t end when chemo ends…we’re there for the long haul,” Luttrell said.
Race starter gives hope to others
In September 2020, Anthony Paoletti became stomach sick and was running a mild fever. Initially, Martha Castro and her husband, “Big Anthony,” worried that he might have COVID-19. The doctor thought it was a viral infection, but then he began bruising throughout his body.
They were instructed to bring Anthony to the hospital, but because of the pandemic, only Martha could join Anthony there. When she learned of his diagnosis, she was alone and scared.
“I was heartbroken and worried for him,” Castro said. “I had to explain everything to my husband and our other children. We have a blended family, and Anthony’s cancer journey meant we all needed to adjust so he could receive the best care possible.”
Shortly after Anthony was hospitalized, the family received an “Admission Bag” from CCN.
“The bag was full of necessities you didn’t know you needed for a journey you didn’t want to start. At the time, everything was a big blur, and it was wonderful to know Children’s Cancer Network was there to support us,” she said.
When Anthony was feeling better, the family began to participate in CCN events. Castro began volunteering and now she works full time as a data specialist/administrative coordinator for CCN.
“It’s been a blessing to meet the families. I’m not just entering data…my goal is to build relationships with them, especially since childhood cancer is a lifelong journey,” she said.
Castro said Anthony has been preparing for the event by practicing running, and he also likes to box.
“We’re so proud of him. He has experienced so much at such a young age, including neuropathy and other challenges, but he has been handling it so well. He adores his family, he is passionate about science and math, and he loves to spend time with our French bulldog, Franklin,” she said. “He is looking forward to starting the Run to Fight Cancer, and he hopes to inspire other children.”
Individuals and teams can register for the April 21 Run to Fight Children’s Cancer at runtofightcancer.com. F
