First Laurel Kluge 5K Ribbon Run Honors Reading Resident and Raises Funds for the Burbank Y

Laurel Kluge was a loving wife, mother, sister and friend, who dedicated her time to philanthropy and volunteerism. When Kluge was first diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 39, she poured herself into being an enthusiastic and dedicated supporter of the Burbank Y in Reading.

She could frequently be found challenging herself with workouts in the fitness center and was mentally and physically strong.

“I’d often see Laurel on the Stairmaster she lovingly referred to as the ‘big kahuna,’ and she could bang out 20 pull ups as others looked on in awe,” says Irene Collins, executive director of the Burbank Y. “She also swam laps in the pool during her chemotherapy treatments, working out with good friends, and making new ones along the way. She was quite an inspiration to all.”

Kluge later served on the Burbank Y board, including as a co-chair when she became more aware of the many activities that the Y offered to families in the area. Looking out for those less fortunate in the community, she set out to create a fund to help children and families going through difficult times or unable to afford summer camp and other Y programming.

Though she was unable to see her work come to fruition because she lost her battle with breast cancer in September of 2006 at the age of 49, the Laurel Kluge Fund was later established. Since its inception her giving spirit has lived on helping numerous local children and families.

New this year, the Burbank Y will continue to honor her memory by hosting the inaugural Laurel Kluge 5K Ribbon Run.

Set for Saturday, Sept. 26, proceeds from the race will benefit the Burbank Y’s LIVEStrong and Pink cancer survivor exercise programs.

“We are very happy to have Laurel’s name associated with the Y and the LIVEStrong and Pink cancer survivor programs,” says Phil Kluge, Laurel’s husband. “Laurel would be very happy to know that these programs are now available to other people and families going through difficult times.”

Funds raised through the 5K will help expand the LIVEStrong and Pink Program and ensure it stays free to all who need it.

The race, which is being sponsored by Agility Orthopedics, is open for registration and the event is seeking more sponsors. Registration is $28 for adults and $18 for participants ages 12 and under.

The Laurel Kluge 5K Ribbon Run will kick-off at 10 a.m. and runners will set out from the Burbank YMCA, located at 36 Arthur B Lord Dive in Reading. This family friendly event will also feature a live band, food, family activities, and free babysitting, offered to families with children ages three to eight.

By the end of 2015, more than 300 cancer survivors will have graduated from the Pink Program and LIVEStrong at the Burbank YMCA. Through the YMCA of Greater Boston, these programs have reached over 1,000 cancer survivors.

For more information visit https://www.racemenu.com/LaurelKluge5k and for questions or more information, contact Joann Nolin at (781) 944-9622.