Imagine hundreds of women and men lined up at a line, all waiting for one thing- the gun to go off. It’s a race, a race to the end, but not to the end of 3.2 miles, but a race to end breast cancer. During the race there are people walking in white and pink shirts- some are just there to run, some there because they feel passionately about breast cancer, some because they lost someone from breast cancer and still others that are breast cancer survivors. The energy from everyone is contagious, buzzing and you can’t help but feel yourself smile. After about 3 miles of ground covered, the energy has changed- but to more energy. There are hugs, kisses and tears from some. Thanks and good-jobs from others as the racers make their way to the post-race rally.
The Susan G. Komen foundation is dedicated to the prevention, treatment and research of breast cancer in both men and women. They are strong advocates for prevention and early detection of breast cancer and work to educate people on ways to self-test and how to get professional screenings.
Since the first race in Dallas, Texas 28 years ago with 800 participants, the Susan G. Komen races have grown to include 146 races taking place worldwide this year at an anticipated 1.6 million race participants. The race in Omaha this Sunday will be part of the first “Link the pink weekend” where two cities in the same state will be hosting a race in the same weekend- Kearney, Nebraska will host their Race for a Cure race on Saturday.
Now, if you are like me, you are intimidated by the prospect of running a 5k, not to worry. The Race for the Cure is a walk/run which means you can run the whole way, you can walk the whole way, or you can do a combination.
According to the Susan G. Komen website, the 18th annual Omaha race is aiming to have 20,000 participants and they are aiming for 2,000 participants in the Kearney race. This would raise over $1,000,000 for the foundation.
There is race day registration on the morning before the race as well as Friday and Saturday if you are still interested in registering for the race!
As I line up on Sunday at the starting line, I won’t just be waiting for the gun to go off, Ill be waiting to walk for all those that can’t and in hopes that someday, there will be a lesser need for the walk because there will be better treatment options, better detection and better education about breast cancer. I walk to do my part for the at least one person I will know statistically who will be diagnosed for breast cancer in his or her lifetime. I walk to help show support for all of those affected by breast cancer.
Fun Fact: Omaha participants will also share their race day with participants in Athens, Greece
Kindly,
Lauren Calderón
Sigma Lambda Gamma Creighton Colony President
Opus Hall Senator
MACURH Registration/Dining chair
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