Steps For a Cure 5K in Honor of James DiGiovanna

You can join this event in person as well as virtually that day.

Distance: 5K

Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025

Time: 9 AM

Location: Heckscher State Park, 1 Heckscher Spur Dr, East Islip, NY 11730 or virtually anywhere

Reason: To raise awareness on this island, find a cure for pancreatic cancer, and early detection of pancreatic cancer!

Join Project Purple as we run and walk towards a world without pancreatic cancer and raise awareness on this island and find a cure for pancreatic cancer.

This 5K run and walk is in memory of James DiGiovanna. James was diagnosed in January 2023 with pancreatic cancer and unfortunately passed away from this terrible disease in January 2024. James was a proud Ex-Chief, Commissioner, and a member of the Great River Fire Department in Great River, NY. He was also a member of the Islip Town Fire Chiefs Council.

James was the proud founder and president of DiGiovanna Bros. Landscaping, Inc. He also served as a member of St. Mary’s Rosary Altar Society. James was a local hero, a triathlete, an accomplished Ironman, and a car enthusiast. He was “Their Superman.”

The DiGiovanna family has partnered with Project Purple to host this first annual 5K at Heckscher State Park, or virtually from anywhere, raising funds for early detection and a cure for pancreatic cancer in James' honor.

T-Shirt Info:

Must register by June 30th to receive a shirt in-person on August 17th or for your virtual run or walk on August 17th. Registrations after this date will not be able to receive shirts.

* = We cannot guarantee you receive your shirt on time in all cases due to the potential for shipping constraints and errors.

Your participation supports Project Purple's national Patient Financial Aid Program and provides critical funding for the advancement of early detection testing and protocols. Project Purple has become the nation's leading provider of patient aid to so many families fighting pancreatic cancer. Learn more about Project Purple at www.projectpurple.org.