1. Talking Points
2014 Purple Community’s Mari J. Meyer Trail Run for Hope
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WHAT: The second annual 5k run/walk organized by Susan Brogger in collaboration with
Van Andel Institute’s Purple Community to remember Susan’s mother, Mari J. Meyer, and raise
funds for pancreatic cancer research at Van Andel Institute.
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 13 at 8:30 a.m.
WHERE: East Kentwood High School Cross Country Course
SPOKES PEOPLE:Susan Brogger, daughter of Mari J. Meyer and organizer of the event
Sara Hop, Purple Community Coordinator, Van Andel Institute employee
What is the Mari J. Meyer Pancreatic Cancer Trail Run for Hope?
 A 5k run/walk that raises funds for pancreatic cancer research at Van Andel Institute.
 The event celebrates the life of Susan Brogger’s mother, Mari J. Meyer, who passed
away from pancreatic cancer in 2012, just 10 weeks after being diagnosed.
 This is the second annual event.
 In its inaugural year, the race had more than 100 runners and raised more than $15,000.
 Susan has set an aggressive goal to raise $25,000 this year.
Why pancreatic cancer?
 Susan Brogger experienced this dreaded disease firsthand when her mother was
diagnosed in 2012.
 Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
 The National Cancer Institute estimates more than 46,000 new cases of pancreatic
cancer and more than 39,000 deaths in the U.S. in 2014.
 Because symptoms may not appear until the cancer is advanced, surgical removal is
rarely an option.
 Susan believes in the importance of early detection and advanced treatments for those
battling this cancer.
 100% of all proceeds from the 5k event support pancreatic cancer research at
Van Andel Institute.

2. Talking Points
2014 Purple Community’s Mari J. Meyer Trail Run for Hope
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What are the event details?
 The event is an untimed 5k trail run or walk on East Kentwood High School’s cross
country course.
 Runners of all abilities are invited to participate.
 Purple t-shirts will be given to all runners, walkers and volunteers.
 The race will kick-off with remarks from Susan and Dr. Brian Haab of Van Andel
Institute.
 Runners will start promptly at 8:30 a.m., with walkers following shortly after.
How can the audience register?
 Register online at purplecommunity.org.
 Registration is $25 until Sept. 12, when the price increases to $30.
 Registered participants can pick up their race packet at Russo’s in Kentwood on Friday,
Sept. 12 from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
 Late registration is accepted the day of the event on the race course.
 Sponsors of the event include: Gazelle Sports, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Bay Valley
Foods, Red Geranium Café, LPIT Solutions, Arie Nol Auto Center, Inc., Russo's of
Kentwood, 105.3 HOT FM, East Kentwood High School, The Buist Foundation, Brother's
Leather, Dental Assoc. of West Michigan, Dollhouse / Judes, Marge's Donut Den,
Starbucks, Boxed GR, and Tastefully Simple.
Want to learn more?
 Race registration and donations can be completed online at purplecommunity.org.
 Fans can also connect with Purple Community on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
where we’ll be sharing information and pictures from the event.
 You can find us on social media by searching for PurpleVAI or connecting through
PurpleCommunity.org.
 Be sure to check out the Mari J. Meyer Trail Run for Hope Facebook page as well to
receive updates on the race and learn more about Meyer’s legacy.

3. Talking Points
2014 Purple Community’s Mari J. Meyer Trail Run for Hope
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What is Purple Community?
 Purple Community is a fundraising program that supports cancer and Parkinson’s
disease research at Van Andel Institute.
 Purple Community connects people who want to make a difference with the resources
needed for action.
 In 2013, Purple Community held more than 100 Purple Community events, ranging from
community cancer walks to arenas packed with hockey fans.
 Anyone can get involved by hosting, volunteering or attending an event.
 Individuals who want to join the fight against cancer and neurodegenerative diseases
can become a Purple Community member at PurpleCommunity.org and receive updates
about events and opportunities to get involved.
What is Van Andel Institute?
 Van Andel Institute is a world-class biomedical research and science education facility
located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
 Van Andel Institute focuses its research on cancer and neurodegenerative diseases
such as Parkinson’s.
 There are currently more than three million people in the U.S. living with cancer or
neurodegenerative diseases, like Parkinson’s.
 Thanks to the generous endowment by Jay and Betty Van Andel, 100% of every dollar
raised goes directly to the laboratories where improved therapies are discovered and the
classrooms where future scientists are trained.