Lighthill Goes the Extra Mile In Fight Against Cancer
By Central Florida Humanitarians // October 30, 2013
2013 central florida humanitarian
ABOVE VIDEO: “Helping cancer patients touches my heart and warms my soul,” said Christine Lighthill. “I often pray there will come a day when this will not be necessary as a cure will be found. In the meantime I look forward to planning and organizing the next Battle Of the Bridges.”
Christine Lighthill always goes the extra mile to help others and has cultivated a world-class triathlon race to help in the fight against cancer.
In creating and organizing her annual Battle of the Bridges Triathlon, the funds raised benefit many local charities including the Cancer Care Centers of Brevard Foundation and Artworks.
“After I lost my only Florida relative, my dear Uncle Coggins to bladder cancer, and a close childhood friend to Hodgkin’s disease, I felt compelled to do something,” said Lighthill.
“I was so blessed to meet Marta Fiol, a real life angel, who further inspired me to become involved to help fight the disease,” she said.
One of the longest running triathlons in Brevard County, the “Battle of the Bridges” helps over 500 runners stay healthy every year as they traverse the scenic Eau Gallie riverside course.
The race was originally created in the mid 1990s, but Lighthill had a vision to make it into the largest and most prestigious race in the area while raising money for charity. Lighthill worked with Space Coast Triathletes to add a longer distance event and then purchased the event to pursue her dream.
“I was so blessed to meet Marta Fiol, a real life angel, who further inspired me to become involved to help fight the disease,” said Christine Lighthill.
Through her efforts with the Battle of the Bridges, over $25,000 has been raised, and Christine is always quick to praise the efforts of the large volunteer base that makes the race happen every year. “I could never do this without them,” said Lighthill.
“The generosity of the racers, volunteers and our sponsors truly inspire me every year.”
VOLUNTEERS MAKE IT HAPPEN
From the proceeds of the race, cancer patients receive financial support, ensuring they have the basic necessities while undergoing treatment.
Cancer patients receive assistance with transportation, food, and other expenses so they can concentrate on healing. Dr. Greenspoon of Viera Sports Medicine has played a key role in the event, providing valuable sponsorship dollars and medical support on event day.
“I treasure the patients I help serve and the athletes who so graciously allow me to continue this work and who come back year after year to participate,” said Lighthill.
“Our incredible tenured volunteer staff of angels include Ginger and Jim Twigg, Denise and Don Piercy, Suzanne Coullias, Kristin Cusimano, Phil Moore, Kevin Leiker, Karla Torpy, and Barbara Heisel, all of whom are always there and help keep me focused. And of course Marta Fiol who provides me with prayer and support whenever I need it.”
Lighthill is always planning the next run.
“Helping cancer patients touches my heart and warms my soul. I often pray there will come a day when this will not be necessary as a cure will be found. In the meantime I look forward to planning and organizing the next Battle Of the Bridges.”
ABOUT THE 2013 CENTRAL FLORIDA HUMANITARIAN AWARDS
The Central Florida Humanitarian Awards were created to recognize outstanding individuals and organizations that dedicate their Time, Talent or Treasure to help people in need locally – and around the world.
This year, more than 30 deserving humanitarians will be honored during the Gala, which will be held Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Hilton Melbourne Rialto Place, with the festivities beginning at 6 p.m.
“Over the years, our editorial team has had the distinct honor and pleasure of identifying and featuring the many members of our community who give back so much and are dedicated to reaching out and helping others, here and throughout the world, in a multitude of ways,” said Maverick Multimedia Editor-In-Chief Dr. Jim Palermo.
“We remain firmly committed to identifying and telling those stories and providing a timely media platform to recognize Space Coast and Central Florida residents’ altruistic contributions on a regular basis in our magazines, as well as SpaceCoastDaily.com,” said Dr. Palermo.
This inspiring and compelling event is sponsored by Brighthouse Networks, Health First, Brevard Physicians Network, Florida Pain, Forever Florida, MPAC ACO, Brevard Geriatrics, Community Credit Union, Clear Choice Health Care, Knudson Brain & Spine Law Injury Office, First Choice Medical Group, Space Coast Medicine & Active Living magazine, CentralFloridaMedicine.com and SpaceCoastDaily.com.
FOR MORE INFORMATION or to make a reservation to attend the Central Florida Humanitarian Awards Gala call 321-615-8111 or e-mail SpaceCoastMedicine@gmail.com.
