Wellness event helps cancer patients
What began in 2007 as the “Walk to Wellness” to help local women battling breast cancer has grown into an annual fundraiser supporting Franklin County residents facing all types of cancer.
The name was later changed in honor of Maudie Bedford, who was active in helping others during her own treatment for cancer.
“Maudie raised money and worked to help others with breast cancer while she was undergoing breast cancer treatment herself,” said club member Brenda Oliver. “She was a very caring person.”
Cox said Bedford was a strong supporter of the event.
“Maudie was always willing to do whatever she needed to help. So many times, women can’t continue working or must take a lot of time off while going through treatment,” Cox said. “Roger and Maudie both contributed to our community in lots of ways and mean so much.”
Maudie’s husband, Roger Bedford, an attorney and former Alabama senator, also had his own fight with cancer. He died Oct. 11, 2023.
Roger had long supported the “Walk to Wellness” event and often spoke about the importance of continuing cancer research.
He said efforts like this help keep research moving forward so that one day people can live longer, healthier lives free from cancer.
Roger said that Maudie was first diagnosed with breast cancer, which later returned, along with colon cancer.
Cox said Maudie’s compassion inspired others and continues to drive the group’s efforts.
After Maudie’s passing in 2022, the event was renamed in her honor. Following Roger’s death in 2023, his name was added as well to recognize the role both played in supporting cancer patients and promoting local advocacy.
In 2024, the event expanded to include a 5K run.
“Their personal outreach was extensive and deeply impactful,” Cox said.
“Roger was known for his dedication to helping people secure crucial appointments, often at world-renowned facilities like M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston,” she said.
“Maudie offered support to women undergoing breast cancer treatment, drawing on her own experiences to provide guidance and encouragement.”
Cox said the event has raised more than $14,000 to help local cancer patients with 100% of proceeds going toward incidental expenses such as gas, meals and insurance copays.
Proceeds will be donated to the Russellville Hospital Cancer Fund as well as directly to individuals.
In some cases, that help has included giving people money for a mammogram or travelling to Birmingham for treatment. Inquiries about assistance can be made through Russellville Hospital or a club member.
“Our hope is that by helping to cover some of those expenses, patients can focus on their treatment and recovery,” Cox said.
Club president Gayle McAlister said it is one of the most rewarding projects the club undertakes. She said funds raised have helped more than 48 individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
“None of this could be possible without the generosity of the community and our dedicated sponsors,” McAlister said.
“This run is for everyone — from avid runners to novice beginners or those who simply wish to support the cause by walking,” committee member Michelle Sibley said. “The mission is clear: to help individuals facing cancer head-on and to bring awareness to curing all the colors of cancer.”
The Maudie and Roger Bedford 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk to Wellness will begin at 8 a.m. on Nov. 1 at the Farmer’s Market Pavilion, 306 West Washington Ave. Registration details can be found at RunSignUp.com.
Sponsors include Burns Rehabilitation Center, Russellville First Methodist Women, Pilgrim’s, Russellville Hospital, CB&S Bank, McKinney Law, Traditions Sports Deli, First Metro Bank, Community Spirit Bank, Russellville Florist and Gifts, Jim and Michelle Sibley, Brenda and Troy Oliver, Mayor David Grissom and Jimmy and Sandy Montgomery.
Heath Dailey and Audrey Daniel from Russellville Hospital are also assisting with the event.
