Dorothy Reicks, who has ovarian cancer, was reunited with childhood pen pal Joanne Thome on Thursday in Grand Island.
The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is the world's largest run/walk series that raises funds for breast health education, as well as breast cancer prevention, advocacy and treatment. In Nebraska, the Race for the Cure was the primary fundraiser held each October during national Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Now in its 30th year, Susan G. Komen Great Plains has granted more than $8 million for education, diagnosis, treatment and support programs that serve uninsured or underinsured people, with about 75% of the proceeds going toward programming in Nebraska.
An estimated 1,300 people took part in Omaha's first annual Race for the Cure on Oct. 2, 1994, which began at Cancer Survivors Park near 105th and Pacific Streets.
Racers and lollygaggers of all ages and genders covered 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) or participated in a 1-mile family fun walk.
The event got a new look and name in 2019. Now located at Werner Park in Papillion, the event is called the More Than Pink Walk and shifts the focus from the walk portion of the event to highlight Komen's core values: research, care, community and action.
Did you know that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime?
Early detection through self-examination and mammography remain the best ways for women to survive breast cancer and enjoy a high-quality life.
The race was an important way to honor the "survivors and thrivers" for the sacrifice and resilience they have shown in overcoming this deadly disease. At the finish line, survivors were rewarded with pink roses.
This year's walk is Saturday, Oct. 19, at Werner Park in Sarpy County. For all the details, go to komen.org/Nebraska.
Let's reminisce on the race that helped pay tribute to loved ones who have died of the disease and to offer positive reinforcement to cancer survivors.