The Alpena Regional Medical Center’s Development Council has named Collin Riffert the 2010 Honorary Race Chair for the 9th Annual Aliferis Memorial Run/Walk.

"I’m honored to be chosen as this year’s race chair," said Riffert. "It’s nice to be able to try and help out an organization that has given so much to my wife and I, as well as our families. It’s a great way to be able to give back a little to the community."

Riffert is an Alpena High School math teacher and Cross Country/Track coach.

"As an avid runner and track coach, Collin brings to the race his running expertise and enthusiasm," said Ann Diamond, ARMC Development Director. "He also has been touched by cancer in his family."

Way too early in life, Collin lost his wife of almost 10 years, Sharron, to cancer. Sharron battled brain cancer for
5 years and was the first patient to benefit from the creation of the Development Council’s Comfort Care Suite.

"The Comfort Care Suite was such a blessing for our family," said Riffert. "It was so peaceful and serene. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to use the suite. Sharron’s family and mine were thankful to the entire ARMC staff for their hospitality."

The 9th Annual Aliferis Run/Walk, hosted by the ARMC Development Council’s Business Relations Committee, takes place Saturday, September 4.

The race has been named in memory of longtime Alpena General Hospital Pathologist, Dr. Peter Aliferis. His work at the hospital of 37 years touched many people and the race is in appreciation of his contributions to the hospital and to the community. Dr. Aliferis retired in July of 2000 and passed away from cancer March 13, 2002.

The event includes a Half-Marathon, 5K Run, 2-mile Walk, 18.5-mile Bike Race/Tour, and the ever popular Tot Trot with Ronald McDonald for those 9 and under. Registration fees are $30 - Half-Marathon (before 7/31, $40 after 8/1) and $20 for 5K, Bike Race/Tour and Walk (before 7/31, $25 after 8/1). New this year – register online at www.alpenaregionalmedicalcenter.org, click on Upcoming Events. Race forms are also available in the Development Department.

All registrants receive a t-shirt and a chance to win U of M football and hockey tickets.

The Aliferis Memorial Run/Walk benefits the Alpena Cancer Center, the Dr. Peter Aliferis Memorial Scholarship and the Vital Patient Enhancements II initiative at ARMC. Don’t forget to mark this event on your calendar and plan to bring the family along for a morning of fun and support of ARMC.