Best known as San Diego’s largest 5K, more than 9,000 participants came together to take action against breast cancer for an inspirational and moving morning in Balboa Park
San Diego CA— Susan G. Komen® San Diego (Komen San Diego) raised more than $800,000 (and counting) at its 22nd annual Race for the Cure®. The one-of-a-kind event took place on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018 in Balboa Park. Thousands of participants united to take action against breast cancer by celebrating survivors and thrivers, honoring those who have lost their battle with the disease and raising critical funds to support San Diego’s breast cancer patients and their families. Funds raised at the Race for the Cure help Komen San Diego provide free mammograms, biopsies, ultrasounds, care coordination, education and financial assistance for breast cancer patients’ most critical needs during treatment. Fundraising for the Race for the Cure is open through Sunday, Nov. 11 at KomenSanDiego.org/walk.
This year, Susan G. Komen San Diego is reigniting the sense of urgency to end breast cancer forever by highlighting the unacceptable fact that more than 41,000 people die each year from breast cancer in the U.S. alone. And in San Diego, that is one woman each day.
For many San Diegans facing breast cancer, participating in the Race for the Cure represents so much more than a sporting event. Being greeted by thousands of people who know exactly what they are going through without having to say a word is so meaningful and empowering, especially as they face the physical and mental challenges of the disease.
“Every year, the Race for the Cure brings together women, men and children who have lived a similar journey, creating a community of love and compassion like no other,” said Shaina Gross, president and CEO, Komen San Diego. “Through the generosity of our local community, Komen San Diego can continue reducing the current number of breast cancer deaths by 50% in the U.S. by 2026. The Race is a powerful reminder that now is the time to take action against breast cancer.”
Highlights from the day included
- In San Diego, six women a day are diagnosed with breast cancer and unfortunately one woman a day passes away from this disease. However, we know early detection and effective treatment provide the best chance of survival from breast cancer. And that’s what Susan G. Komen San Diego’s work is all about. No longer will we ask, “When will I find the time?” When is Now.
- More than 9,000 Race Day participants coming together in powerful show of strength against breast cancer.
- Over 400 volunteers who helped make the day possible.
- Over 200 dogs decked out in pink as part of “Pups for the Cure.”
Due in large part to the success of Susan G. Komen’s ability to bring breast cancer out of the shadows and celebrate those who have survived the disease, many consider breast cancer to be an issue that is no longer an urgent concern. But women, men and their families know daily just how urgent it is.
“No one should ever have to choose between paying their rent and paying for treatment. Komen San Diego works to provide hope to San Diego breast cancer patients and their families, and it is community events like Race for the Cure that allow us to fund breakthrough research, provide financial assistance, and much more to put an end to breast cancer,” said Gross. “Please help us continue to serve breast cancer patients here in the San Diego community by fundraising and donating at
komensandiego.org.”
