FHCP Joins ME STRONG 5K Community in the Fight Against Cancer

Every year since 2012, runners and walkers from Florida, and even some from outside the state have participated in the ME STRONG 5K event in DeLand. Florida Health Care Plans is proud to sponsor the event, in which all proceeds raised go towards supporting local cancer patients who need assistance paying their bills, including rent and mortgage payments.

Over the years, the ME STRONG 5K has grown in popularity and participation. In 2020, the event had nearly 6,000 participants and hundreds of spectators. The growing ME STRONG community has been instrumental in making this event successful. Their kindness and generosity have led to the raising of more than $2 million.

On Saturday, February 3^rd, a total of 4,720 runners participated in this year’s ME STRONG 5K. Of those runners, Erin Slicer, who is a pharmacist at FHCP, finished in the top 2% and finished in first place in her age division.

“I love the ME STRONG 5K! It is an incredible annual event for the DeLand community,” Erin Slicer said. “My family and I have tried to run it every year we can since it started in 2012. We have all followed Linda Ryan and her battle with cancer. It’s an amazing family and community event, that raises money that gives back to our community. There are local businesses, schools, and organizations participating in the race or setting up cheer stations. So many of FHCP’s members live in DeLand or surrounding areas and participate in the ME STRONG 5K. I am proud to have FHCP supporting such a great event and to have run this year representing FHCP.”

We’re also proud of our overall FHCP team of runners that finished the 5K in sixth place out of 89 total teams. We would like to thank all the participants who went out and spent their Saturday selflessly running and walking to raise money for those battling cancer in our community.

“Attending the ME STRONG 5K is not just about participating in a race, it's about being a part of a community that comes together to support each other," Brittany Hawthorne, FHCP Group Wellness Coordinator said. “It's an incredible experience to see so many people gathered in one place, all united in the fight against cancer. The energy during the race is contagious, and the support from the community is truly heartwarming."

About Florida Health Care Plans

Florida Health Care Plans serves our community with over 9000 local health care providers in Flagler, Volusia, Seminole, Brevard, and St. Johns counties. Our Care Centers are designed with convenience and comfort in mind, whether you’re visiting your family doctor, getting an X-ray, or utilizing our cost-effective, members-only pharmacies.