Dulcolax maker sponsors CCA's fashion show

ST. LOUIS — To help promote the third annual St. Louis Undy 5000 5K run on March 26, the Colon Cancer Alliance is introducing the “Parade of Undies” fashion show, sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, the maker of Dulcolax products.

Rather than wear race-day t-shirts, participants will wear specially designed boxer-style shorts, providing a fun way to bring attention to a serious disease. American fashion designer and colon cancer survivor Carmen Marc Valvo will serve as one of the judges.

“St. Louis has become a mainstay for the Undy 5000 due to the community’s overwhelmingly positive response to this event,” stated Andrew Spiegel, CEO of the Colon Cancer Alliance. “Each year the run attracts more and more people to help us bring more awareness to colon cancer and the importance of screenings to help save lives.”

The Undy 5000 — a family-oriented event open to all ages — is held in cities nationwide to educate the public about colon cancer, promote screenings and encourage people to talk about the disease. The event raises funds to support and build the CCA’s national and local patient support and public awareness programs. In addition, a portion of the funds raised from the St. Louis Undy 5000 will be distributed locally to fund services for those diagnosed with colon cancer. In addition to the 5K, there will be a 1-mile family fun run.

The Undy 5000, created by the CCA, stresses the importance of timely colon cancer screening, and also provides valuable information for those already affected by the disease. Walgreens serves as St. Louis’ local retail sponsor. Additional national sponsors include the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, Genentech and Salix Pharmaceuticals.