HCW History

Heaven Can Wait began in 2000 after Charlene Levesque — wife of Central Oregon Running Klub (CORK) president, Joe Levesque — was diagnosed with breast cancer. Charlene's diagnosis prompted CORK to begin formulating the idea of an event that would promote early detection of cancer and encourage a healthy, active lifestyle.

Held every year on National Cancer Survivor's Day (first Sunday in June), Heaven Can Wait has grown into Central Oregon's premiere athletic event and an annual celebration of cancer survivorship.

The event pivoted for one year in 2020, as the community raised funds for St. Charles frontline caregivers during an unprecedented year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants ran or walked in their own neighborhoods, around Central Oregon, and in 14 different states and then shared their photos and stories on social media. We were able to provide support to frontline caregivers, and Sara’s Project continued to provide breast cancer support and education throughout the year.

Annual participation and sponsorship

Over the past 20 years, more than $1.5 million has been raised to benefit Sara's Project.