Saturday, May 13, is the 40th annual Fifth Third River Bank Run. Between 18 and 1,000 runners, hand cyclists and walkers are expected to take part. Each of them has a different reason for why they're doing it.
This will be Cindy Kikkert-Penning's 17th consecutive Fifth Third River Bank run 25K -- and she has overcome many obstacles to get here.
This year, having injured both of her feet, Cindy will complete the 15 and a half mile race on a knee scooter with her husband by her side.
Cindy was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer in February of 2012, and a brain tumor in December of 2013, -- but she didn't let those conditions stop her.
Through chemo, radiation and several surgeries, Cindy continued to put on her pink running shoes every day.
Before her illness, Cindy was a highly competitive 5K runner. "That part cancer has taken away, but for me to at least run the River Bank, it's just part of who I am that cancer can't take away from me," she explained.
"And I think that has helped her, not just to have a sense of normalcy but I think it's helped her physically," said her husband, Dr. Tim Penning. "It's helped her endure treatments, recover from surgeries, to have that mental goal, but just physically I think it's made her stronger, so I'm pretty proud of her."
Cindy tells us throughout her treatments, finishing the River Bank 25K was always a top priority. She is nervous about this year's race, but is confident they will make it to the finish line.
We'll be cheering for you, Cindy!
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the WZZM 13 app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@wzzm13.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter.