Local oncologist runs Miles for Myeloma, inspires others

One doctor, one race and many patients helped raise more than $1 million for cancer research this year.

Miles for Myeloma, which began in 2005, is a fundraiser for multiple myeloma, an incurable but treatable blood cancer.

Dr. Rafat Abonour, oncologist and researcher for the IU Melvin and Bren Simon Center, and faculty were brainstorming fundraising ideas when Abonour’s love of running was mentioned, and Miles for Myeloma began.

The marathon was not easy to organize. It required dedication and time from many volunteers.

“People doubted it would happen,” said Amber Senseny, fundraiser for Miles for Myeloma.

However, the marathon generated a tremendous amount of hope. The goal to raise a cumulative $1 million toward research for the cancer was surpassed this year, more than a day before the marathon began.

Miles for Myeloma is unique because it is done by and for the patients, who help out with water for the participants and run and bike in the marathon themselves.

The marathon inspires doctors as well as patients.

In fact, Abonour ran Miles for Myeloma 2008 on Halloween.

Abonour, alongside patients and friends, ran from Indianapolis to Bloomington. The next morning, Abonour ran through a human tunnel of family, friends and patients on the field at the IU Memorial Stadium before finally ending his mission by biking back to the IU Simon Cancer Center in Indianapolis.

Gina Kramer, Abonour’s nurse, rode with a patient during the marathon in a previous year and said she felt inspired by the dedication of the participants.

“They drive us to do what we do,” she said.

The patients are not only passionate about the cause, but about the driving force behind the marathon – Abonour.

Myron Gill, 68, who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 1999, described Abonour with enthusiasm.

“He’s a super man, an inspiration,” Gill said.

Gill, who participated in the race, said he put forth the effort because he looked up to Abonour.

Joe Brown, 61, a patient diagnosed with the disease in 2004, was referred to Abonour after seeing another doctor. Brown said it makes a difference when Abonour participates in the marathon.

“He’s very involved and an unusually warm man,” Brown said.

To Abonour, the highlight of the marathon is running through the human tunnel of family, friends and patients at the IU stadium.  

“It’s amazing energy,” he said. “You see the love.”

Abonour said the disease is challenging enough because patients “don’t have an easy
ride.”

Despite the illness, the patients still have the determination to do their best at Miles for Myeloma.

Abonour said the event gives them the mentality to “keep going.”