Mercer Island resident, Tom Lindquist, colon cancer awareness advocate, was honored on June 11 by the Rotary Club of Mercer Island, receiving their prestigious Achievement Award for his work in advancing the cause of colon cancer awareness and prevention.

With Lindquist’s encouragement and help, the club dedicated their signature event to the colon cancer cause, resulting in both awareness and financial support reaching new levels. Lindquist has been an advocate for colon cancer prevention, carrying on the legacy of his sister, Susie Lindquist-Mjelde, who lost her battle with colon cancer in August of 2002 at the age of 46.

“Tom’s involvement has been a powerful factor in the growth, care, feeding and success of Rotary Mercer Island Half Marathon Run,” said Bo Darling. Rotary Run has been a big annual community event on Mercer Island, attracting professional and amateur runners from all over the nation to kick off their running season in Seattle.

“Since Tom’s involvement, the Run has been growing, tripling the money raised; and double the number of participants. Bringing the health message to the forefront of the event really touched so many people and it is powerful,” said Dawn Naye, director for the Mercer Island Half. The Mercer Island Rotary Achievement Award is to honor individuals who have contributed extraordinary service to the Mercer Island community.