HARTFORD — Thousands, dressed in pink, participated in the American Cancer Society’s ‘Making Strides’ Breast Cancer 5-K Sunday morning at Bushnell Park.
The event remembered those who have lost the fight against breast cancer and also celebrated the lives of survivors.
Today was breast cancer survivor Lynn Torciello's 13th year walking in the 'Making Strides Against Breast Cancer' event. Torciello has been battling the disease since 2002, and each year she participates in the walk is inspired by how many people get involved.
"To know that there are this many people involved, raising all kinds of money for research and a cure is going to be found," said Torciello.
Stephanie Balesano from the American Cancer Society says the event has grown significantly each year.
"A lot of people are coming out to help us raise money, to help us with our research and funding, our programs and services and getting information on our website," said Balesano.
Families of breast cancer survivors and those who have lost loved ones to the disease also came out in numbers to support the cause.
Event Speaker Maureeen Depierro shared her experience of caring for her mother in the fight against breast cancer. Depierro urged family members to remember to continually offer support to those with the disease and reminded those diagnosed with breast cancer to ask for help if needed.
"It's not a sign of weakness to ask for help," said Depierro. "It's empowering."
She also shared enthusiasm for how the American Cancer Society walk unites everyone who has been affected by breast cancer.
"Their motto is never walk the walk alone, and you can see clearly today that no one's here walking alone," said Depierro.
