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Thousands Turn Out For 11th Annual Gary Papa Run

By Al Novack

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Several thousand people converged near the Philadelphia Art Museum on Sunday for the 11th annual Gary Papa Prostate Run.

It was 2009 when sportscaster Gary Papa lost his battle with prostate cancer and now his memory lives on with the annual Father's Day race that bears his name.

The event, a 5K run and 1-mile fun walk, is designed to raise awareness about the disease, and to raise money for education and detection by the Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

"One day, with all of the help and support and the funds, one day there won't be prostate cancer," said Cary Matthews from Pennsauken. "I have quite a few friends who have prostate cancer, one did pass away, and normally I don't miss church, but I felt that it was a good cause."

Organizers were pleased with the size of the crowd as men, woman and children from all across the tri-state region showed up to lend their support.

"It's a very good cause," said Mike Johnson from Montgomery County. "I had a mother who passed away from breast cancer and a father who died from heart disease and stroke, so we look to do a couple of these, any type of cancer."

And those who weren't running or walking in the race were volunteering to help answer questions for participants.

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