Walk to help 'make strides' against breast cancer
A walk to raise awareness of breast cancer and honor those touched by the disease will step off Sunday at Cantigny Park in Wheaton.
The American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk will begin at 9 a.m. at 1S151 Winfield Road.
Making Strides is the largest network of breast cancer awareness events in the nation, with more than 1 million participants supporting the noncompetitive three- to five-mile walks each year.
Registration begins at 8 a.m.
Proceeds will help the American Cancer Society fund innovative breast cancer research; provide education and guidance to help people reduce their risk; and offer comprehensive patient support to those who need it most.
Since 1993, more than 14 million supporters have raised more than $870 million nationwide. Last year, 3,500 walkers in DuPage County helped to raise more than $210,000. This year, the walk is expected to raise more than $225,000.
In 2017, ACS staff helped guide more than 40,000 cancer patients through every step of their journey as they moved through the health care system, including helping with insurance problems, referring them to ACS and other local services, assisting caregivers and addressing obstacles to care.
"Because of the determination of Making Strides supporters, the American Cancer Society is there for people in every community affected by breast cancer, whether they're currently dealing with a diagnosis, may face one in the future, or will avoid it altogether because of education and risk reduction," said Jennifer Brauer, community development manager.
"At the event, communities embrace a bittersweet mix of purpose - celebrating survivorship and paying meaningful tributes to loved ones lost," she said.
"From research to education, prevention to diagnosis and treatment to recovery, we provide support to everyone impacted by breast cancer."
To learn more about the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event and how you can become involved, visit www.MakingStridesWalk.org/ dupageil, or contact Jennifer Brauer at (630) 518-5607 or jennifer.brauer@cancer.org.