Sokolove Law, a leading mesothelioma law firm since 1979, is proud to sponsor the 18th Annual Alton Miles for Meso 5K Race and 3K Fun Run/Walk, with proceeds benefiting the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO).
The event will be held both in person and virtually on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 — just 1 week before National Mesothelioma Awareness Day on Sept. 26. Miles for Meso brings together mesothelioma survivors, families, advocates, and community members in support of research and awareness for asbestos-related diseases.
"For nearly two decades, Miles for Meso has proven that awareness is something you build one step at a time," said Ricky LeBlanc, managing attorney of Sokolove Law. "We're honored to stand with the survivors and the families who make this event what it is — and there's no better place for it to start than the streets of Alton, right outside our own front door."
Since the first race in 2009, Miles for Meso has raised more than $977,500 for organizations like the ADAO, the largest independent asbestos victims' organization in the U.S. The ADAO works to prevent exposure through education, advocacy, and community partnership while pursuing a global asbestos ban.
Mesothelioma lawyers at the firm are proud to be a part of the community, support the patients and families they represent every day, and raise awareness of asbestos exposure risks.
Event Details
Race day festivities begin at 7:30 a.m. at One Court Street in downtown Alton, Illinois, with the 5K race and 3K fun run/walk starting at 9 a.m. Virtual participants are encouraged to share their race photos on social media using #MilesForMeso.
This year's race carries a jazz-inspired theme celebrating Alton's musical heritage as the birthplace of legendary trumpeter Miles Davis — a fitting tribute for an event built on hope, resilience, and a community moving forward together.
Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure, with roughly 3,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year.
Because the disease can take decades to develop after exposure, many patients diagnosed today were exposed on the job long ago — often without ever being warned of the danger. Events like Miles for Meso help fund the awareness, education, and research needed to support patients and prevent future exposure.
"For 18 years, this event has turned a morning run into real momentum for the ADAO's mission: awareness, research, and, ultimately, a world without asbestos-related disease," Ricky added. "Whether you're racing the 5K in person or joining virtually, every mile moves us closer."
Registration for in-person and virtual participation, along with full event details, is available at MilesForMeso.org.
