Detroit Lions fan Cody DeLorenzo has completed a 313-mile run from Lambeau Field in Green Bay to Ford Field in Detroit, carrying the Week Seven game ball to raise money for cancer support and honour his wife’s breast cancer journey.
The Flushing, Michigan, ultramarathon runner arrived at Ford Field on Saturday, October 24, ahead of the Lions’ meeting with the Green Bay Packers. His fundraising effort has brought in more than $76,000 for Henry Ford Health’s Game On Cancer initiative.
313-mile run raises funds for Game On Cancer
DeLorenzo was greeted at the stadium by Lions mascot Roary, cheerleaders, supporters and members of staff after making the journey from Wisconsin across the Midwest.
His wife, Shannon, was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. The couple have spoken about the importance of early detection and are using their experience to help other patients and families facing the practical and emotional strain of treatment.
“The purpose of it is great, and it keeps us going,” Shannon DeLorenzo said. “We get time together with family and friends, and it’s a reminder of our support system.”
She added that the couple wanted to offer others the same kind of support she had received during her own treatment.
Game On Cancer, a Henry Ford Health initiative supported by the Lions, provides assistance with essential costs linked to cancer care, including housing, food and transport, while also helping fund research and supportive services. The Lions said their foundation had also donated $200,000 to the programme.
The run formed part of the NFL’s annual Crucial Catch campaign, which promotes cancer prevention, screening and early detection. DeLorenzo’s journey began at Lambeau Field and ended with the delivery of the ceremonial ball for Sunday’s Lions-Packers fixture at Ford Field.
