Respiratory Therapy program students “walk it off”

Several Respiratory Therapy program students and two staff/faculty members from the Rancho Cordova campus — along with a few friends and family members — took on the Great Strides 5K walk in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Many more SJVC team supporters joined the crowd at Raley Field in West Sacramento on Saturday morning, May 16th.

“The event was a great success, and I was very proud of our students for their efforts,” says Amy Bianco, Campus Dean. “It was great to soak in the sun, get some exercise and support a great cause!”

SJVC team members included Respiratory Therapy students: April Edgar (Team Captain), Stephanie Delacruz, Christopher Tanaka, Jessica Spahr, Liliya Kovalchuk, Karen Smith, Lacy Morelli, Krista Larson, Jeanette Ghannam, and Jessica Sheldon; and faculty/staff: Amy Bianco, Campus Dean, and Jodilee Prophet, Respiratory Therapy instructor. Friends and family team members included Michael Edgar, Erin McClure, Neam Abdejiawad and Kayla Jasmine Prophet.

The Walk had over 1,600 attendees and raised $135,176. The Rancho Cordova team spearheaded a fundraising effort that netted $375 in donations.

“The Great Strides Walk was a wonderful example of a community brought together to support hopes of a future without the current struggles of Cystic Fibrosis,” says Lacy Morelli. “The amount of support and dedication shown by the supporting companies, volunteers and participants was absolutely touching.”

There were lots of activities at the event for participants and attendees. “There was something for everyone, including vendor booths, music, food and, of course, the 5K walk downtown, where you can show your support to find a cure and enjoy the city’s scenery,” says April Edgar.

This is the third year the Rancho Cordova campus has participated in this event. More than 125,000 people participate in hundreds of walks across the country in order to raise funds for cystic fibrosis research and pharmaceutical development.