Race for the Cure raises more than $650,000
More than 6,500 supporters came together on a sunny Mother's Day morning at Montrose Harbor to be part of Race for the Cure locally presented by Presence Health.
The 20th anniversary event raised more than $650,000, which Komen Chicago will put to good use throughout the city and suburbs as it works to achieve its Big Bold Goal of reducing the number of breast cancer deaths by 50 percent by 2026.
The lakefront setting was a sea of pink as runners, walkers, supporters and volunteers paid tribute to all who have fought breast cancer, including hundreds of survivors who participated in a Survivor Parade.
Komen Chicago also honored 20 More than Pink Heroes for their bravery and compassion in celebration of the 20th anniversary. Jon Seda, star of NBC's "Chicago PD" and "Chicago Justice," was the celebrity guest of honor, and he helped recognize each of the More than Pink Heroes on stage.
Kathy Webb, founder of Komen Chicago 20 years ago and now a breast cancer survivor, spoke during the pre-race festivities and recalled the early days of the organization.
"I can't believe it's been 20 years already, and that Komen Chicago has been providing services and programs to thousands of high-risk Chicago residents," she said. "Seeing all of you here today, I know we will find the cures we need. We are stronger together."
Bonnie Gordon, Komen Chicago executive director and a two-time breast cancer survivor, agrees that the unparalleled energy of Race for the Cure gave her renewed faith that better treatments and a cure are not far off.
"This year, we've already awarded more than $1 million to organizations that are providing lifesaving screenings and quality care to those who need it. With the amazing results of Race for the Cure, we'll be able to continue that work and fund global research that will save lives."
Gordon adds that significant sponsorship support from Presence Health, as well as other sponsors, made a big impact and will help reverse the disparity in the Chicago area, where more than 1,000 people die each year from breast cancer, and the mortality rate of African-American women is 40 percent higher than white women.
Susan G. Komen's promise is to save lives and end breast cancer forever by energizing science to find cures, ensuring quality care for all and empowering people with knowledge. Komen Chicago donates 75 percent of net funds raised to community grants and dedicates 25 percent to global research.
Presence Health is the largest Catholic health system in Illinois, serving more than 4 million people in 11 counties. With more than 150 sites of compassionate care, including 12 hospitals, more than 17,000 associates and more than 4,000 medical professionals, Presence Health has annual revenue of $2.6 billion.
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