Six models impacted by colon cancer, including JP Lutz of South Philadelphia, took to the fashion-show runway for On The Runway for a Cure & Booty Ball, a fundraiser for colon cancer programs and research March 29 at Live! Casino & Hotel, 900 Packer Ave. It was a well-attended “victory” fashion show supporting colon cancer warriors in the Delaware Valley.
The event also included a dinner and auctions. “Eagles Insider” Dave Spadaro, a 30-year veteran with the Eagles’ organization, served as the event’s auctioneer. The occasion marked the final weekend of March, which is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month. Colon cancer is the nation’s third-most common cancer, and early detection can greatly improve survival rates. All funds raised from the event will stay in the Philadelphia region to fund colon cancer education, research and patient care.
To inspire others, Lutz shared his experiences and brave battle with cancer. He leads an active life. He is a professor at St. Joseph’s University and a longtime sports-management executive, including 13 years with the Philadelphia Eagles. He also is the owner of a sports memorabilia shop. He was diagnosed with Stage 1 colon cancer after a colonoscopy at age 45 and was treated at Penn Presbyterian.