Look around in October, and you will see the color pink everywhere in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
In 2014, it is estimated there will be more than 40,000 breast cancer deaths and 232,670 new invasive breast cancer diagnoses will be made.
Back in 1983, the Race for the Cure, a 5K run and fitness walk, began in Dallas, Texas, with 800 participants. Today, there are more than 150 races, on four continents, with more than 1.6 million participants. You can be part of the excitement on Oct. 12, in Downtown Phoenix. Monies raised benefit breast cancer research and patient support programs.
Another way to honor those who have lost their battle to breast cancer and to celebrate survivors is the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk—a 60-mile walk whereby participants pledge to raise $2,500, train for four to six months beforehand, and go through many band aids and walking shoes.
Mesa resident Donna Masiulewicz has participated in the 3-Day Walk since 2010, doing so four times in Phoenix, and, this past August, in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. “I walk because I can,” Donna said. “This was an opportunity to grow my 3-Day family.” Inspiration comes from many places. For Donna, the entire 3-Day experience continues to motivate her. “I have met wonderful people,” she said. “I have cried and laughed with them, while sharing stories of loved ones lost, and celebrating the survivors.”
Dates for 2015 are listed on the Susan G. Komen website. Get your training gear out, and head to another location in the United States. Donna will continue doing so. “Challenge yourself,” Donna suggested. “You can do this. I not only challenged myself physically, but I enhanced my confidence and drive to stay focused and committed to a cause. Participation comes in many forms,” she continued. “There are those walking, volunteering as crew or as walker stalkers, people who cheer as we go by. Make a difference,” said Donna. “Because everyone deserves a lifetime.”
Paint the town pink in October.
For more information, send an email to raceforthecure@komencanaz.org. You also can go online to www.komen.org or www.cancer.org.