Faces of Giving

Jason Thomas

A West Virginia University Political Science faculty member is lacing up to help cancer patients in memory of his mother.

An avid runner, Jason Thomas of WVU’s Political Science Department, is participating in several races this summer to raise money for a fund he established at the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center named after his mother, Carolyn E. Miller, who lost her battle to esophageal cancer two years ago.

The Carolyn E. Miller Steps for Solace Fund will help make patient visits to the Cancer Center Clinic as pleasant and personalized as possible.  It will be used to provide beverages, newspapers, magazines, and assistance with such things as finding the perfect wig or scarf.

“I wanted to do something to help patients get their minds off the stress that accompanies a cancer diagnosis so they can concentrate on getting better,” said Thomas.  “My mom always helped folks and I want to maintain her legacy of generosity and compassion for others.”

“She was an amazing woman,” added Thomas.  “In her last days, she was more concerned with comforting the people around her than her own suffering.”

The Fairmont resident also lost his father to cancer.  Jacob “Butch” Thomas died of melanoma when Thomas was just a toddler.  “The death of my mom and dad were heartbreaking and painful events for my family.  Thankfully, I had the love and support of friends and family to help me.  Many people do not.”

Thomas began to run as a way to deal with his mother’s death.  Last year at the age of 33, he completed his first marathon and has lost nearly 70 pounds since then. In 2010, Thomas will complete an Ironman Triathlon.  “I always say I’m running away from a fat man,” said Thomas jokingly.  “Plus, exercise is a good way to help keep the threat of cancer at bay.”

Thomas’ goal is to raise $25,000 for the Carolyn E. Miller Steps for Solace Fund by the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC this October.  That is the amount needed to endow the fund so that it will be an ongoing source of revenue.

In addition to friends, family and colleagues, Thomas is urging businesses to pitch in.  “By making a donation, you will be supporting me in completing the marathon, but, more importantly, you will be funding the provision of local services to people afflicted with cancer.  The money I’m raising will stay in our community to help West Virginians.”

All donations to the new fund are tax deductable. You can Make a Gift Online to the Carolyn E. Miller Steps for Solace Fund or by contacting The Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center at (304)293-4597.  To track Thomas’ race schedule and performance go to his blog at recastiniron.blogspot.com.

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