Celebrating 25 years of saving lives nationwide, the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk will be held October 7 at Champions Square to support the fight against the second leading cause of cancer death in women and ensure no one faces breast cancer alone. Registration for this noncompetitive, inspirational event begins at 7:00 a.m. and the walk is set to start at 8:15 a.m.
Dollars raised by Making Strides supporters help the American Cancer Society fund innovative breast cancer research; promote education and risk reduction; and provide comprehensive patient support to those who need it most. Here in New Orleans, donations support the Patrick F. Taylor Hope Lodge, offering free lodging and a community of support to cancer patients and their caregivers traveling for treatment.
Since 1993, more than 13 million supporters have raised more than $810 million nationwide. Last year, 6,500 walkers in New Orleans helped to raise more than $249,000.
According to the American Cancer Society Cancer Facts & Figures 2017, an estimated 252,710 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 40,610 will die from the disease this year.
“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 Lori Watts, Community Development Manager. “At the event, communities embrace a bittersweet mix of purpose – celebrating survivorship and paying meaningful tributes to loved ones lost. 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 makingstrideswalk.org/NewOrleansLA or contact Lori Watts at (504) 219-2293 or NewOrleansLAStrides@cancer.org
