A 5K run/walk event is set for this weekend at DeVictor Park in west Lawrence to raise money for cancer research.

The event is being organized by a 16-year-old high school student who says she was inspired to do something after learning that three students at Langston Hughes School this year are battling cancer.

“My little brother came home from school one day and told me one of his friends in class has cancer,” Sophia said. “They have a stuffed monkey they put at his desk, and the kids can leave cards and things for him with the monkey, and they deliver them to him at the hospital. I thought the whole scene was very sweet, so I felt inspired to do something about it.”

At first, Sophia said, she started organizing an event to help her brother’s classmate. But soon she learned from the school’s staff that there are actually three families with students at Langston Hughes who are battling cancer. So now the event will raise money for research that benefit all cancer victims.

The 5K Run-Walk for Cancer Research will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday at DeVictor Park, 1100 George Williams Way. Entry fee is $10 per person, or $25 per family. Proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society.

The event is a non-certified race. Race numbers and official timing will not be done. Parking will be available across the street at Langston Hughes School.

Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. and end no later than 8:45 a.m.