Jenny Barnes will be the first to tell you she is one of the lucky ones. As a marketing executive for a fortune 100 company and a mom of three children, she’s an aspiring screenwriter and author and loves trying to keep up with her five grandchildren. With a bustling life of family, work and volunteering, Barnes had no time for interruptions. In 2013, Jenny was being proactive about her health and went in for her colonoscopy. She anticipated a clean bill of health but came out with the opposite, a colon cancer diagnosis.

Just over one year ago, Barnes underwent surgery to remove her tumor and part of her colon. As she recovered, she walked the halls of the hospital to regain her strength emotionally and physically. She saw the Undy Run/Walk poster hung on the wall and vowed she would celebrate her one year anniversary of survivorship by gathering a team to participate in the fun, life-affirming event.

A fun twist on a serious topic, the Undy Run/Walk is sparking much-needed conversations. From the moment you arrive, you will become both amused and enthused by the expressive attire. Some participants will sport their favorite pair of underwear, while others will dress as Santa Claus, a superhero or simply as a runner. Whatever your style, when you attend the Undy Run/Walk, you are helping make colon cancer something people are comfortable talking about.

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet it is still the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. About 140,000 Americans will be diagnosed with colon cancer in 2014, and more than 50,000 will die from this disease.

Unfortunately, cost is a barrier to treatment for many patients. That’s why funds raised by the Nashville Undy Run/Walk will directly benefit patients in need through the Colon Cancer Alliance’s Blue Note Fund. This program provides financial assistance to colon cancer patients in active treatment, providing hope to patients and their families who desperately need it.

On August 16, Barnes’ team, JB Best Butties, will be sporting t-shirts with her slogan—“Give your doctor a booty call!” Barnes adds, “Make the booty call the day you turn 50. Before you blow out your candles, book this preventive appointment—it saved my life and it can save yours.”

For more information or to register, visit www.undyrunwalk.org and click on Nashville.