Philips Respironics, Murrysville, Pa, is the title sponsor of the 2009 Pittsburgh Half Marathon. The marathon and half marathon return May 3, 2009, after a 6-year hiatus. This is the company’s first major sponsorship of a sporting event.

“We are honored to be involved in a milestone event for our region and are using the opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of sleep to health and wellness,” says Donald J. Spence, who is now CEO of Philips Home Healthcare Solutions. “We want to encourage everybody to take part in the festivities. You don’t have to be a marathoner to appreciate the exhilaration and excitement surrounding the big race through our city.”

Spence himself, an avid runner and marathoner, is leading the charge with the help of other Philips Respironics employees.