The FINANCIAL — The ninth annual Avon Walk for Breast Cancer season kicked off with the fourth annual Avon Walk in Houstonon April 17, which raised more than $1.8 million to advance access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer.
The Avon Walk Houston attracted nearly 1,000 participants from 31 states and Canada, including 91 breast cancer survivors, who joined together to raise life-saving funds and awareness for breast cancer.
During the Closing Ceremony at Stude Park, walker and three-year breast cancer survivor Christine Marquise from Dallas, TX, spoke movingly about overcoming breast cancer, according to the company.
“I’m awed by the journey we all just completed and the community that we’ve created in only two days together. I’m proud to have crossed the finish line with my dad, Mike North, a veteran Avon Walker, who has literally been with me every step of the way. I’m also thankful that my mom could be here to celebrate with us, as she is a two-time, 13-year breast cancer survivor. And I’m honored to serve as living proof that with faith, great medical care, love and support, you can take on breast cancer—and win. Every step we took this weekend will help people here in Houston have a chance to turn their frightening diagnoses of breast cancer into happy, healthy futures filled with hope,” said Marquise.
Carol Kurzig, president of the Avon Foundation for Women, announced during the Closing Ceremony a total of $1.1 million in grants to eight local organizations, ensuring the funds raised immediately benefit the community. More grants are slated to be awarded throughout the year to breast cancer programs nationwide. “The dollars you raised are going to do a lot of good right here in Texas, right now,” said Kurzig. “Our beneficiaries are leaders in the fight against breast cancer and they’re from your communities. They represent organizations that offer life-saving services to patients regardless of their ability to pay, and they are conducting cutting-edge research to find better treatments, prevention strategies, and ultimately to put an end to breast cancer.”
Discussion about this post