(INDIANAPOLIS) – The national Race for the Cure to raise money for breast cancer research is back, with a new format and new name.
The annual race is the signature event of the breast cancer nonprofit Susan G. Komen. But the group changed the name this year, because it’s no longer a race. Regional director Jen Milewski says most of the cancer patients and survivors taking part in the event walk the course rather than running. She says the organization found the walkers were the most successful fundraisers, while the runners were more likely to be focused on the running.
The rechristened More Than Pink Walk will step off Saturday morning for a two-mile walk in White River State Park.
Last year’s event was canceled by the pandemic, and with some participants’ immune systems compromised by cancer treatment, COVID precautions will be in place. Masks are required, and Milewski says the group chose a route with walking paths wide enough to allow social distancing.
But while a virtual option is available, Milewski says it was important to be able to hold the event in person again. She says being together with those Komen serves underlines the importance of the organization’s mission. And she says it’s a chance to take a literal step forward toward conquering the disease.
Milewski expects about 2,000 walkers, half the usual pre-pandemic turnout. Komen has set a $500,000 fundraising goal.
The event was pushed back from its usual April date, as organizers waited for the coronavirus pandemic to slacken. But Milewski says Komen expects to keep the October date in future years. She notes it aligns with the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
