MORE WAYS TO GET INVOLVED:

2023 Union Home Mortgage Cleveland Marathon May 20 and 21

When the McNamaras learned that a number of people were already running in the marathon independently to aid Prayers From Maria, they decided to encourage their supporters. An official team of runners, Sunflowers for Striders, was formed a number of years ago.

Northeast Ohio parents Jason and Cathy Massey lost their young son, Logan, to cancer. They have devoted an admirable amount of time and effort to help the Prayers From Maria running team.

“Logan’s dad is really passionate and has this event in his heart,” says Megan. “We are blessed to have him involved.” To become a team member, contact team coordinator Grace Bevington through prayersfrommaria.org.

The Sunflower Summer Wine Festival July 8

Thousands of people enjoy this event that takes place annually along Depot Street in the Old River area of Rocky River. Entertainment includes live music, including the kickoff performance by Ed Purcell Music. Edward Purcell, a solo acoustic cover artist, is a partner with Armada Risk Partners. Billy Morris and the Sunset Strip will close out the event.

“We know people come to this event to enjoy themselves and we want them to,” says Megan. “But we also have signage, handouts and a slideshow on stage that tells them why we are there. They get to know that their money is going to something important.”

The Sunflower Soiree August 11

Many of Northeast Ohio’s movers and shakers, including about 50 CEOs of top companies in the region, attend this high-end fundraiser to show their support for Prayers From Maria. Medical researchers and physicians, including those from University Hospitals, Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth Medical Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the National Institutes of Health, as well as other organizations, are part of the very special night, according to Megan. Last year’s soiree was held at the Historic Coast Guard Station on Whiskey Island. This year’s location has not been finalized.

Key individuals fighting childhood brain cancer from across the country, including those who have benefited from Prayers From Maria funding, share information about the progress being made in childhood cancer research. The McNamaras are also touched and amazed by those researchers who say their current work would not be possible without initial funding by Prayers From Maria years ago.

“I have been told by some CEOs that this is one event they want to come to, and they say, ‘’Not only do I sponsor it, but I bring my friends.’ We are proud and grateful for that,” says Edward.