Donna Deegan- Using Her Influence to Fight Breast Cancer
Donna Deegan, former TV news anchor and current mayor of Jacksonville, Florida, has battled breast cancer three times. During her journey, she saw firsthand the financial burdens breast cancer patients face. Inspired by the overwhelming support and stories from her viewers, Donna made it her mission to help.
First diagnosed in 1999, she leveraged her platform as a local celebrity to promote breast cancer awareness. By 2008 she established the DONNA Foundation to support families in need and fund research. Starting as a local effort, the foundation has grown to assist over 20,000 families across the nation, providing up to $500,000 in debt relief annually and funding vital breast cancer research at the Mayo Clinic.
5K Run for a Cause
The DONNA Foundation hosts several races throughout the year, including the iconic DONNA Marathon in February and the DONNA 5K on Mother’s Day. The DONNA 5K at TPC in October has grown to become a community favorite in the lineup. This family-friendly event brings together up to 1,200 participants annually to honor loved ones, celebrate survivorship, and contribute to the fight against breast cancer. Executive director Amanda Napolitano notes that the race supports families impacted by breast cancer, ensuring they don’t have to choose between paying for treatment and paying for dinner. The event also supports research efforts to eradicate breast cancer.
Team Efforts and Community Support
The DONNA 5K at TPC is more than a race—it’s a celebration of resilience and unity. Groups like NOC’n Out Breast Cancer, made up of over 60 survivors and supporters from the Jacksonville area, find the event deeply meaningful, bringing people together to honor the shared journey of survivorship. Teams participate to celebrate loved ones, support friends, and remember those lost, creating an atmosphere of hope and connection.
SurvivorRx and The DONNA 5K
SurvivorRx co-founder Marzena Mignone has long supported the DONNA events, running in past relays to honor her dear friend and breast cancer survivor, Lisa Morris, whom she’s known for over 17 years. SurvivorRx proudly sponsors the DONNA 5K at TPC Sawgrass, celebrating resilience, community, and the ongoing fight against breast cancer.
References
The Donna Foundation: About Donna Marathon Weekend
Jacksonville Free Press: Running for a Cure
