The Mahoning Valley once again came together for the 15th annual Panerathon 10k/2 mile fun run/walk on Sunday, August 25th at the Covelli Centre in Downtown Youngstown. As the largest community fundraising event in the Mahoning Valley, Panerathon is directly contributing to our area’s ability to lead the way against breast cancer in 2024 and beyond. With an increase in sponsorship and participation, 2024’s edition of the event has raised over $700,000 to benefit the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center (JACBCC) at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, the first and only
comprehensive breast care center in Youngstown, bringing the event’s overall impact to over $5 million. These funds have resulted in real breakthroughs in local breast cancer outreach, education, and early diagnosis, according to the release.
At the JACBCC, 150,000 exams have been performed since its doors opened in 2011. The money raised from Panerathon has allowed for the purchase of a mobile mammography unit that has brought the life-saving services of the JACBCC to even more women in the region who may not have had access previously. The unit has already performed over 14,000 exams in the tricounty area since 2016 and is the only of its kind in eastern Ohio with 3D mammography technology, which improves breast
cancer detection and accuracy. “Panerathon continues to grow in support and participation each and every year,” said Sam Covelli, CEO of Covelli Enterprises. “This speaks to the kindness and generosity of the people of the Mahoning Valley. We are beyond grateful for the unwavering
support of participants, sponsors, volunteers, and donors, who have been loyal to our cause over the past 15 years. We look forward to coming together again this year to lead the fight against breast cancer in the Valley.”
The release went on to say, “Our community is celebrating the 15th anniversary of and the largest Panerathon ever this year. Because of the overwhelming generosity of all of the participants in Panerathon and this community, we will surpass $5,000,000 in support for the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center over 15 years. This year, we have had a significant increase in sponsorship support, the number of runners and walkers, our great volunteers and for the first time, the Diocese of Youngstown is hosting a special mass for runners and walkers. All of this support and prayers ensure that Mercy Health and the JACBCC is able to provide the highest quality of care, right here in our community, to all of our neighbors in need regardless of ability to pay. We continue to be grateful for Sam, Caryn and Danielle Covelli, Covelli Enterprises and all of our sponsors who are helping to save lives.” Paul S. Homick, Jr., President, Mercy Health Foundation Mahoning Valley.
Panerathon is made possible by Covelli Enterprises, Panera Bread and Mercy Health Foundation Mahoning Valley.
Event is produced by JAC Live.
