The Fourth Annual Quack Out Cholangio 5K Run/Walk Raises Funds for Rare Cancer Research

The 4th Annual Quack Out Cholangio 5k Run/Walk to Crush Bile Duct Cancer was held May 20th at Midnight Oil Brewing Company in Newark.

The race, hosted by Jan and Dean Meyer, is the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation’s largest community fundraiser in the USA. The Foundation is the leading global resource for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a rare but deadly bile duct cancer. It strives to find a cure and improve the quality of life for CCA patients. Fundraisers such as the Quack Out provide support for cutting-edge research, innovative therapies, and patient education.

This year’s Quack Out hosted 613 participants (both virtual and in-person) and hopes to raise $100,000.00 earmarked for cholangiocarcinoma research only. Members of the cholangiocarcinoma community participated from 29 states, Canada and Malaysia to honor their loved ones, make memories with friends and family, and raise money and awareness.

“The Meyer family works all year to plan this event, and it is evident how much love, care, and enthusiasm goes into it,” said Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation’s CEO and Founder Stacie Lindsey. “Their hearts are in this celebration of hope.”

Jan Meyer, a CCA survivor, knows first-hand what resources are needed to manage this rare cancer. She has spent her time after diagnosis managing her care and also extending hope to others.

“We are thankful for our volunteers, including a large group from the Newark Rotary. We couldn’t do it without them or our sponsors,” said Jan Meyer. “This year, again, Incyte was our

main sponsor and had a team of 24 participants. Servier, Taiho Oncology, Kirkin Exteriors, and Champion Trophies also generously sponsored our event. We also received donations from a variety of local companies. We had delicious cookies donated by Insomnia Cookies, Chips donated by Herr's, water donated by Wawa and Primo, chocolate milk donated by Hypoint Dairy, bananas and sodas donated by Ravitz Family Markets, and more.”

Along with Stacie Lindsey, several Members of the CCF Board of Directors attended the event. Dean Meyer currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Board.

“The Meyer family have been incredible team members as we strive to find a cure for this disease,” Lindsey said. “Their dedication, even in their hardest times, has helped fund life-changing research.”

The 2024 Quack Out is set for May 18, and as the Meyer family reflects on this year’s event, they are already working to make next year’s race another success. Sign-ups begin January 1, 2024.

"To many, it might just look like a 5K, but to those participating, it is much more. We have teams supporting their family member, friend, or colleague in their battle. We also have many families who return year after year to honor their loved one who was stolen way too soon,” said Jan Meyer. “For the CCA warriors, it is a weekend of support, love, and friendship with others going through various stages of their own journeys."

To learn more about the Quack Out for Cholangio and stay informed on next year's race, follow the Quack Out on social media.