Kids & Family
The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer 2012
The walk is from Boston to Reebok Headquarters where the walkers will camp out in little pink tents before heading back to Boston.
Saturday was day one of the two-day Walk For Breast Cancer that began at the University of Massachusetts in Boston and ended at Reebok International Headquarters in Canton.
"The Avon Foundation has awarded more than $48.5 million dollars to organizations and institutions in New England," said Carol Kurzig, program Director for the Avon foundation for Women. Kurzig is a six-year breast cancer survivor.
"We want every woman to have the opportunity to stay healthy and have a routine mamogram even if they can't afford to have one because they may not have health insurance or the means to even get to a facility to have a mamogram," said Kurzig. "Regardless of anyone's ability to pay, we will provide a free mamogram to whoever is in need. Our team feels every woman should have the same chance of survival."
Find out what's happening in Cantonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Reebok International has been the proud sponsor of the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer for over seven years. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the walk and celebrates achievements that have been made in breast cancer research over the last decade.
Some women will walk a 13.1 mile route and others the full route of 26.2 miles. Either way, they are all winners!
Find out what's happening in Cantonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"This year we have 37 states who are participating in this years walk along with Washington, D.C. Not all are survivors, many walk in memory of a loved one or good friend," said Kurzig.
Kim Megan, from Billrica, Massachusetts, is a six-year survivor of breast cancer.
"The most important thing you can do for yourself is eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, know your family history, do self exams often and get a regular mamogram," said Megan.
Millie McCarthy, who has walked many years is no longer able so.
"I give back in the way that I can. My life is forever changed after losing so many family and friends to cancer. I now volunteer whenever I am able," said McCarthy.
On Saturday night many women slept at Reebok Village in hot pink tents. By the end of the day Saturday, hundreds of tents were pitched on Reebok's lawn.
Sunday at 8am, the walk resumed and ended with a ceremony at the University of Massachusetts Boston Campus.
