Run for the Rose brings together people touched by brain cancer

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Brain cancer patients, survivors and supporters turned out for a very good cause at NRG Park.

The 14th annual Run for the Rose kicked off at 8:15am at NRG Park. The event raises funds for adult brain cancer research.

Our very own Jessica Willey strapped on her running shoes, and was joined at the event by anchor Ilona Carson.

Since it began in 2003, the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation has donated more the $4.75 million from its Run for the Rose to adult brain cancer research at The University of Texas MDAnderson Cancer Center, pediatric health initiative at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, and the Dr. Marnie Rose Professorship in Pediatric Neurosurgery at McGovern Medical School.

The event is held in memory of Dr. Marnie Rose, who was featured in the ABC reality series Houston Medical.

Rose was a 28-year old pediatric resident at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth when she passed away from what is considered one of the deadliest forms of human cancers, a glioblastoma. Marnie died on Aug 23, 2002.

ABC13 was a proud sponsor of this year's Run for the Rose.

You can learn more about the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation at their website here.