Mercy’s Especially for You (EFY) Race Against Breast Cancer is trying for its place in the “Guinness Book of World Records” on June 7.
Mercy will record the official measuring of an inflatable pink ribbon that was constructed and donated to the race by Dan Yeager and his wife Jeanine. If successful, the ribbon would set a world record for “Largest Inflatable Awareness Ribbon.” The category hasn’t previously existed, so Mercy could be the first to earn the distinction.
The Yeagers are passionate supporters of the race and wanted to give back by helping create awareness for EFY after Ms. Yeager’s personal battle with the disease. She was treated at Cedar Rapids’ Hall-Perrine Cancer Center.
The inflatable pink ribbon was previously displayed near the starting line of last year’s EFY race, in October 2022.
“The inflatable ribbon, generously donated by the Yeagers, is a fitting symbol of the EFY race, which is now in its 33rd year,” Race Director Jeff Decker said in a release. “We’re excited and hopeful to secure a place in the record books. It’s always meaningful when we can find ways to promote breast cancer awareness and bring attention to this important cause.”
Mercy is utilizing the local services of Ryan Companies and Shive-Hattery, Inc. Architecture & Engineering firm to conduct the formal measurement. Shive-Hattery has the appropriate measuring tools that can be calibrated to meet the specifications set forth by Guinness Book of World Records staff. Ryan Companies will provide equipment to help lift a surveyor to the top of the ribbon, which is more than 25-feet tall.
Weather permitting, the ribbon will be inflated in front of the Hall-Perrine Cancer Center at approximately 7 a.m. on June 7. If wind or other weather conditions are not conducive to taking the measurement, McKinley Middle School at 620 10th St. SE in Cedar Rapids will serve as an alternate location.
Mr. Yeager will unveil a new inflatable at this year’s EFY race on Oct. 1.
