BP sponsors American Cancer Society Walk & Roll

On a brisk April day, hundreds of BP employees gathered along Chicago’s lakefront in support of the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) Walk & Roll event

For more than a decade, BP has been a presenting sponsor of the fundraiser, which offers participants the option to run, walk, skate or bike to raise money and awareness for cancer research and patient support programs. 

In his opening remarks at the event, Fuels, North America Chief Operating Officer Doug Sparkman said, “For me, this cause is deeply personal, as it is for so many here.” He honored the memory of Heidi Wolfe, a BP employee who lost her fight with cancer last December. 

Wolfe was a champion of the cause, raising more than $130,000 over the years in support of ACS. “Heidi was a friend to many of us, and a tireless advocate for cancer awareness,” Sparkman said. “We miss her.” 

To honor Wolfe, BP and ACS formed a research grant at the University of Chicago to support colorectal cancer research. ACS also introduced the Heidi Wolfe Service Recognition Award, which recognizes one outstanding Walk & Roll participant each year for significant fundraising and service, and for upholding the values and mission of the organization. Sparkman presented this year’s award to a member of the community, Sally Bachrach, praising her commitment and fundraising efforts. 

U.S. Paralympic swimmer Tucker Dupree also spoke at the opening ceremony, applauding ACS for its work and thanking participants for their support of the important event. 

Team BP raised more than $50,000 for ACS, with donations and matching gifts still coming in. Staff and their friends and family from Whiting, Naperville and 30 South Wacker joined the event as participants or volunteers. Hundreds of others supported in the weeks leading up to it with grassroots fundraising efforts, ranging from bake sales to auctions. At the Whiting Refinery, employees created Walls of Hope to help raise money for cancer research.