Fighting breast cancer with 60 miles

Fighting breast cancer with 60 miles


Nancy Hollingsworth, of Springfield, will join thousands of other dedicated women and men at the Tampa Bay Breast Cancer 3-Day benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund. After months of training and fundraising, participants will walk 60 miles during three days to raise awareness and funds for critical research and community outreach programs.

“My mother, Elizabeth Woodward, had inflammatory breast cancer,” Hollingsworth said. “It started as a small bruise-like area on her breast. When it didn’t go away she went to the doctor. Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer. My mother was very positive throughout her experience. She looked forward to spending time with her children and grandchildren.
“After a year and a half of chemo and other treatments, my mother loss her battle with breast cancer. Because of her positive outlook, I have chosen to continue to fight. Also, her best friend, Shirley Kessinger is a breast cancer survivor. I have chosen to walk in my mother’s memory and in honor of Shirley.

“As a Breast Cancer 3-Day participant, I have an opportunity to celebrate breast cancer survivorship, honor those who lost their lives to the disease, and ultimately, have an enormous impact on awareness and funding for breast cancer research and community outreach programs.

“The Breast Cancer 3-Day is challenging, and fun, and the memory of my personal accomplishment will last a lifetime.”

The Tampa Bay Breast Cancer 3-Day will start on Friday morning, Oct. 19 and end with Closing Ceremonies on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 21. The walkers will cover about 20 miles a day, traveling at their own pace. The walkers will be supported by hundreds of volunteer crew members who will provide meals, liquid and snack stops, gear transport, hot showers, portable restrooms, safety on the streets and 24-hour medical services.

The actual journey starts months in advance when walkers start training and raising the $2,300 required fundraising minimum. To help prepare for the Breast Cancer 3-Day, each walker is supported by coaches and online assistance that aid in all aspects of training and fundraising, while clinics, meetings, and training walks provide ongoing support.

source : www.rctimes.com