Kiesendahl receives Lance Armstrong's award

HAWLEY - Bob Kiesendahl, of Hawley, is one of six notable persons from across the country, who recently received the Lance Armstrong Foundation’s “Livestrong” Survivor award at a ceremony in Philadelphia. Bob is an eight-year leukemia cancer survivor, who was treated at the Penn State Cancer Center and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle. The strict criteria for the award include: • Taking innovative measures to increase public awareness of cancer and cancer survivors. • Demonstrates a resilient attitude towards his/her illness and inspires others to live life to the fullest. • Demonstrates a remarkable commitment and contributes significant resources-whether in the form of time, talent or financial support — to further the cause of cancer survivorship. More than 2,700 cyclists, runners and walkers, along with 500 volunteers, from 34 states and seven countries took part in the Lance Armstrong Foundation’s “Livestrong” Challenge in Philadelphia presented by Nike. Participants took part in the event by cycling 10, 40, 70 or 100 miles, or by running or walking a 5K or 10K. Bob and his mother Joan Kiesendahl participated in the race and have been active in several fund-raising efforts including the BK Invitational, an annual charitable golf tournament at Woodloch Springs. Their combined efforts have raised over $250,000 throughout the years which benefit cancer research and care. This year’s BK Invitational was held on Monday, October 2 and benefited leukemia research at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center and a new survivorship program with the Lance Armstrong Foundation at The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle. Over 236 golfers and 280 banquet attendees participated. At the banquet, Bob stated, “My award and success in fundraising efforts would not be possible without the tremendous support I have received from family, friends and local businesses.” Anyone interested in learning about or getting involved with the Foundation or Bob’s fundraising efforts can call 570-685-8000 or e-mail him at woodbob@woodloch.com. Bob is a family member and is the Director of Food & Beverage Operations at Woodloch Resort in Hawley, Pa.. The Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) inspires and empowers people affected by cancer. They help people with cancer focus on living; they believe that unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything. For more information, visit livestrong.org.