12th Annual Race for Hope - DC!

Join Honorary Chairman David Cook for the 12th Annual Race for Hope - DC! Through generous gifts from individuals and company sponsorships, the Race for Hope - DC has raised more than $7.3 million to find a cure for brain tumors and provide support to brain tumor patients and their families. Proceeds from the 2009 Race for Hope - DC benefit the National Brain Tumor Society and Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure.

A 5k course in the nation's capital, the Race for Hope - DC is open to everyone, and is a fun way to join forces in the fight against brain tumors!

"When I was competing to win American Idol, I came to understand the power of grassroots support. I strongly believe this same enthusiasm is the key to unlocking a cure for brain cancer. Just as America rallied around me last spring, I hope we can all rally together to raise funds and awareness for cancer research. As you know, this cause is very close to my heart."

"Join my team and run with me in our nation’s capital or join me as a virtual runner. Let's be the #1 team!"

In response to David's $10K challenge, the overwhelming support from fans like you has shattered that number with already over $26K in donations in just 5 days! To join David's team supporting his new $50K goal, click HERE to sign up!

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Comments for this News article

I sent $20 to your campaign to fight brain cancer, and I am sorry I could not send more. I am one of your 'older' fans , and I am on disability, so my funds are limited.

I was blessed to see you in concert at Harding in Searcy AR, and was blown away - thank you so much for coming, thanks for your talent , and for your heart for others. You are a fine man.....!

I hope I get to see you again---
God bless you and your family during this time...
Holly

David,
I want to thank you for your courage in the face of your personal tragedy. My son watched you last season on American Idol and knew your story. I took him to see you when the American Idols tour came through Atlanta. When you spoke of your brother at the show, my son listened with tears in his eyes because we had just found out the week before that our dog, Sam, had liver cancer. Please don't be offended by the comparison - that dog meant everything to my son. The next morning my husband asked about the show and my son replied "Did you know that David Cook's brother has cancer? His brother has a terrible disease like mine does. Now I know how he feels."

Our dog lost his battle back in February and my son has been asking about Adam frequently. He was very sad to hear the news this weekend. Your courage gave an eight year old boy someone to look up to and identify with during a very difficult time for him. For that I will always be grateful to you.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with you and your family.

David,
I just wanted to add one more condolence, cause that is all we can do to let you know how sad
we are for you and your family. I am so proud of you that you were able to attend that race and
still lend your support. It was the right thing to do, although I am sure it was tough to keep going
at the time. You have shown us what a caring person you are once again. God bless you and
your family. We all are praying for you and for a cure for cancer. I am a cancer survivor, as is a
very dear friend. It is truly harder to be on the side that you don't know how to fight for you loved
one. I know, I have been on both sides.

Much love and prayers are with you,
Phyllis

I FEEL SAD AND SORRY ABOUT YOUR BROTHER..I AM IN SHOCKED BECAUSE I WAS AT SUNFEST SHOW IN THE SECOND ROW HANDLING YOUR CD, AND WHEN I HEARD YOUR SPEECH AT RACE FOR HOPE .....IVE BEGIN CRYING THE WHOLE NIGHT.YOU ARE A COMPASSION AND COMPROMISE MAN. YOU MUST BE VERY PROUD OF YOURSELF AND PROBABLY ADAM `ANGEL TOO. AS A PSYCHOLOGIST I CAN TELL YOU THAT THINGS HAPPENS FOR A REASON , IN A SPECIAL TIME..RIP ADAM...DEEP SYMPATHY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.....SINCERELY,MIRIAM KIERSZ

hey dave,

i know there are no words to that will make this better, but you should know that you're an amazing person and as hard as it is, you will get through this. You enrich everyone's lives and adam was very lucky to have you. i am so sorry...i can't even imagine what you must be going through.
I know this is tough but just remember that there's a world full of people who love and support you and are here for you.
it's your daily anthem, and we'll all sing along...
all the best,
~jasmin

David and family
I was so very sorry to hear about the loss of your brother. I know he meant so much to you. He saw you all the way through your challenges on American Idol. Those had to be some very special moments for both of you.
I also lost a loved one from cancer. I know the suffering they go through and also the suffering that those of us who are left behind deal with on a daily basis. You have an angel watching over you and a very special angel.
Again, you and your family are in my thoughts. I wish for you God's speed and strength as you face these difficult times ahead. Take care.
Tammie

AC

David,
I have always defended my obsession of you to family and friends by stating that "I admire him". Never has this been more true. You have repeatedly proven that you deserve my admiration. I love your music, but not as much as I love your character. Please know that you made Adam's life so much richer. As you truely have enriched my life.
Robin

I heard about the fact only a few hours ago and I still don't believe it. It's so sad and I really can't find any words to say other than I'm with my heart next to you to try to console you, Andrew, your parents,...

I had lost my grandma for a cancer too like less then ten years old ago.. I don't remember very well because I was like 7/8 but I've seen, again, the pain in my mother's eyes after she has known from me about the lost of Adam and I'm sure that she has thought about what she has passed for a long time after that fact and how do you feel right now, David, and how it's hard to go on and to believe in the future and in the world around you.
Adam will protect you and your family by heaven, he will always be along you in your way and in the Andrew's one.
You're a wonderful, sensitive and strong person. I hope that the smile will come back soon at all of you, dear Smiling

Really heart-felt wishes to you David and your family,
Alice

I am sure your brother is happy to know that you followed your dream and I saw in his face that he was so proud of you. The love that you two share will always be with you and keep remembering he is in your heart and in the words you sing always. My thoughts are with you and your family at this sad time. Keep your head high and keep reaching us with your music.

Dearest David, A loss of a loved one is never easy...in fact I have found it to be life changing and eye opening. I lost my mom to breast cancer in July of 2003 after a 6 year battle...she was only 53.
My heart aches for you, your family, your sister-in-law, and those sweet children.
Although your heart is filled w/ pain at this moment, please know that "this too shall pass"...certainly not w/o some tears shed or w/o many moments of asking yourself "why", but nonetheless, it will pass.
For me, I will always remember your brother in the audience cheering you on...how inspirational, and what a lucky person you are to have had a brother as wonderful, loving, and loyal to you as he was.
God bless you and your family...and please take care and be gentle w/ yourself in your grieving process. Best wishes, Erin

I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR LOSS. I CANT IMAGINE WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH. I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW I AM THINKING ABOUT YOU AND ALL YOUR FANS LOVE YOU. YOU ARE AN AMAZING PERSON AND I AM SURE YOUR BROTHER WAS VERY PROUD OF ALL YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED.

CHELSTAYSMOM

It was a brave thing to run the day after...but I guess that's what Adam would've wanted. We salute you, man. Your family will be in our prayers.

Dear David,

Our family was at the Race for Hope yesterday, running for the memory of a dear friend we lost (Bogie's Buddies- Paul Bogart), and in great appreciation for my father, Donald Mensh, who is a 3-time brain tumor survivor. Alexa (10) and Dillon (7) are big fans of yours and were so proud to run this race with you. We are all very sorry to hear about your brother. We hope to meet you next year as we hope to run this race with my father (their "Poppop") who will be 72 years old.

We wish you and your family much love and support during this difficult time.

Love,
The Weinberg Family (Kim, Larry, Alexa, and Dillon)

David and family, all my love goes out to you! David, it broke my heart to see you cry! I didn't see that coming and I had to catch my breath when you made the announcement of your loss. But you are such a strong and amazing man! To do this race and laugh and smile, with all you have going on....is something very special. That is why I love you. For the person you truly are inside! We all know how much you loved Adam and I prayed this day would never come. Right now you have millions of people shedding tears with you and holding you all so close in thought. May special memories and the love of family and friends get you through this most difficult time.....

I was very saddened to hear the news yesterday. I pray that God will be with you and your family right now in your time of sorrow and need! And I hope you can take some comfort in knowing that Adam is at peace with God now. We all love you David!!
--Edie

I just heard of your brother's passing. I am so sorry to hear the news. Huge prayers are going up for you and your entire family.

David

Sorry to hear about your brother. Keep you chin up my friend and know that he will always be watching you from above. You have done a good thing in honoring him and working towards helping others fighting the fight against cancer. Thanks for your strength and encouraging words. We are behind you and believe in you now and always.

Sandy

I know you're busy, so I'll keep this short. Prayers to your family. I couldn't imagine losing my sibling. God Bless You!

I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your brother. My heart goes out to you an your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Ecclesiastes3:1-4
To every thing there is a season, a time to every purpose under the heaven: a time to be born,
a time to die, a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal,
a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance

Know that your brother is suffering no more, and it's now his time to dance......

With Love,

Ashley

Hello all,

I am Max Wallace. I run the non-profit organization Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure. We are one of the two sponsors of the Race for Hope in DC. We use the money raised at the race to fund cutting-edge research to find a cure for brain cancer. While I was able to thank David yesterday for his wonderful participation in the race, I also wanted to thank all of you for your support. We are about to post a blog entry about the race on our website, but I thought that I ought to post it here first so you, as David's fans, could get a first hand sense of the race and of how grateful we are for David's thoughtfulness, friendship and support. Here it is:

"I just wanted to write a quick note to say how excited we all are about the wonderfully successful Race for Hope held here in Washington, DC, this morning at the beautiful -- but wet -- Freedom Plaza. The Race for Hope was started 12 years ago by a dedicated group of volunteers who wanted to raise money to support research aimed at curing brain cancer. The proceeds from the race now go to our organization, Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure, and to the National Brain Tumor Society."

"In spite of conditions that ranged from misty to downright rainy, 9,000 participants were there at the 9:00 am start when over 300 yellow-clad brain tumor survivors led the way across the starting line. 380 teams formed for the event wore their own unique team colors and carried signs showing support for loved ones, family members and friends stricken by this disease. Our Honorary Race Chairman, musician David Cook, ran with his own team over the 5K course around the US Capitol and back."

"After everyone completed the course, the volunteer chairs presented a number of awards, but perhaps the most touching presentation was made by David Cook himself. Not only was he the honorary Chair of the Race, his own team actually led all teams in fundraising with nearly $100,000 raised by race time. With such great help from his team and from supporters around the world, David was able to present a total race check of $2,000,000 to Stacey Case and Jean Case, two of our founders, and to representatives of NBTS. This money will enable us to continue to drive the most cutting edge work by the nation’s leading brain cancer researchers. "

"After presenting the check, David spoke quietly and earnestly to the crowd, saying how very important this cause was to him because his brother Adam, who had been battling brain cancer for a number of years, had passed away just the day before. David went on to say that while he had lost his brother, standing there looking out he realized that had gained thousands of new friends, each of whom was working toward the same goal of finding a cure for this terrible disease. He said that he would come back for the Race next year, and for each year thereafter, as long as we would have him. I am pleased to make that invitation right now – David, we would be honored to have you join us for next year’s race. And for the Races thereafter. In the meantime we will continue to work to raise money and support the research that is so important to all of us. To that end, it is still possible to help by contributing to David’s team (or to any of the other teams, or even to the Race itself) by going to the Race website at www.curebraintumors.org. We will always value your support in this effort and we would love to have you join with David and with us going forward. I look forward to seeing you at next year’s Race for Hope."

All the best,

Max Wallace
CEO, Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure

I was very sorry to hear that your beloved brother has passed on. Just know that your fans think of you in a personal and caring way and we grieve with you. Hold fast to the memories you made with Adam and recall them when you're feeling down. He may no longer be with you physically, but his spirit endures and you can be a source of strength to the rest of your family in this difficult time.

God bless you all.

Dear David and Family,
My most sincere and deepest Sympathy to you and your family at this very difficult time. You should be very proud of yourself for Running the Race and Raising money for Brain Cancer in Honor of your Brother!
I know he is very proud of you! You have a very special Guardian Angel now, whom you will be able to take with you always! I have lost my Mother to Pancreatic Cancer and ironically, this past Saturday, May 2nd was the 18th Anniversary of her death. I can tell you that we who are left behind Stand Proud as A Testament to them, their lives, and the Gift they were to all of us who loved them. My prayers are with you, your brothers, your Mom and Dad, Adam's wife and children, that God may Strengthen and Comfort all of you, in this Sorrowful and Difficult time!
Death ends a Life, Not a Relationship! The Relationship continues, just on a different level. We gain Power and Strength from their Love and continue to Receive their Protection, Love and Strength in the Most Unexpected and Wonderful Ways! Stay close to the Truth that you Know, and it will Carry you through Anything! One Day At A Time.
All the Best!
Emily Turano

Dear David and family,

We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your dear brother. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

We came from Chicago and saw you on the Idol tour last year in Evansville. Of course you were terrific. Your family has been in our thoughts this year. Your inner strength to experience the greatest thrill and the most difficult pain has been so inspiring and courageous.

We are praying for peace for your family.

the Brand family

My heart goes out to you and your family. I lost my Mother to cancer 15 years ago. Thank you for all you do for cancer awareness.

Much love,

Beth

Hey David. I just heard about your brother about an hour ago... and I started crying when I saw the video of you telling the audience in D.C. And I was laying in my bed and I decided to turn Permanent on. And I cried like a baby.

Adam began with touching your heart, and it was infectious. Adam is an inspiration to you, and through you it was inspired us. Forever we will be greatful to have your brother grace us with his presence on this earth.

Hang in there, David. You have many people behind you, praying and supporting you in this painful time.
"Death is the enemy. I spent 10 years of my life singlemindedly studying, practicing, fighting hand to hand in close quarters to defeat the enemy, to send him back bloodied and humble and I am not going to roll over and surrender." -Diane Furlov and Andrew Schneider

Much love, Bethany.

David I was so sorry to hear of Adams passing, please remember to celebrate his courageous life as you go through the grieving and healing process. God will hold you up through both

To the Cook Family...
May all of the Love You have for Adam reflect back to You from Heaven...

Respectfully,
Janet

My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours in your time of loss. I wish there were something any of us could do to make this time easier. Know that many are praying and sending positive thoughts your way in this time of sadness. God Bless and keep you all.

Dear David (and Family),
I am saddened to hear of the loss of your brother, you have my deepest sympathy. I know how hard it is to lose a loved one. I've found that reflecting back on good memories helps, and spending time with people who care about you, also helps. I felt your heartache when you said you have 9000 new friends, isn't it amazing that you can find comfort in strangers? You know, they say time heals everything, but I think there's always a hole in your heart that can't be replaced when you lose a loved one. I know you'll keep Adam in your heart and soul and this will make you even stronger than you already are.
Today there was rain, but I like to think it was the tears from the angels above...
Peace Be With You,
Kathy

My thoughts and prayers and the thoughts and prayers of all your fans are with you and your family. Adam will be with you all and especially you, David, watching over you, and making sure all the angels keep sending their heavenly voices through you. Peace & Love.

I was at the race today, and the pain in David's eyes when he was telling us about Adam was so heartbreaking, all I could do was cry. I am just glad there were so many fans there for him in his time of need, and that there will continue to be fans and loved ones to help him through this incredibly difficult time. All my thoughts and prayers go out to David, his friends and family. I cannot express enough how sad I am and I would like to do anything I can for David at this time. We love you, David! <3

I was saddened to hear of Adam's passing. May you find comfort in your fond memories of Adam and find support in the love of your family, friends and fans. Peace and love to you and your family.

I am so sad to hear about Adam. I know someting of what you must be feeling right now. My mother passed 3 years ago from Pancreatic cancer. Please take comfort in knowing your brother is still with you whenever you think of him even if he is not here physically. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Sending thoghts of comfort,
Lisa Hiser

My heart goes out to you and your family for the loss of your brother. I truly wish I could say I didn't know what you are going thru but i do. I lost one of my sister's to AIDS and my only brother to a drunk driver. Please remember they are better off now and have no pain.

I will pray for you and family nightly.

Christy

Dear David and the Cook family,
I am so very sorry for the loss of your brother, Adam. We have all been praying for him and all of you and will continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers as you mourn. I am glad that Adam is no longer suffering and I know that his spirit will live on in all of you and his wonderful children. David, you are an inspiration to all of us and we will continue to help you raise money for this terrible disease. May you and your family find courage, strength, and peace in this difficult time. Adam was very fortunate to have you and Andrew as his brothers and please tell your entire family that I am sending you all tons of virtual hugs from San Francisco. I only wish I could do more.
Jackiefan

I am so sorry to hear the news of your brother's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.

i just read about your brother, David and i am soo very sorry for your loss.... I know how much Adam meant to you and your family... It was very nice of you to still come to the 12th Annual Race for Hope - DC! and it shows just how much character you have and how honorable you truly are. You are such a huge inspiration for all of us and i hope you and your family make it through this hard time in your life... I cried when i read about your brother and i am very truly sorry... My prayers are with you!

Condolence to the Cook Family. Our prayers are with you. May Adam finds eternal Peace in heaven.

From: The Philippines

Dear David and Family,
There is not much anyone can say to ease your pain at this sad time, but know that you and Adam are in the thoughts and prayers of so many people who truly care. He fought a gallant fight with the love and support of a remarkable family and, I'm sure, a great many friends. He will live on in your hearts forever. May God give you comfort and peace.