A cancer awareness organization in Petersburg is hosting a race this weekend and a poker tournament the next, both to raise funds for hospital equipment, travel costs, counseling and education to those affected by cancer.

"People don't realize there is help available," said Michele Parker, the committee chair of Beat the Odds, which raised more than $31,000 from last year's run and the Circle of Life event in April.

Beat the Odds will hold its 18th annual local race on Saturday, its first event during breast cancer awareness month. The funds generated will likely go toward new equipment, tr...