March 2, 2024—On a crisp, beautiful day in Petersburg, something truly special happened. It wasn’t just a 5k; it was a gathering of hearts, a testament to resilience, and a powerful show of unity. For the 95% of us who joined, cancer survivors, family members, friends, patient advocates, and dedicated researchers—this was deeply personal. We didn’t just walk or run; we carried our stories with every single step.
For us, this event wasn’t just about raising awareness. It was about honoring those we’ve loved and lost, celebrating the victories of those still fighting, and forging a path for a more just future. We know firsthand the pain, the uncertainty, and the disparities that exist in the cancer community. That’s why every stride we took was a tangible demonstration of our shared commitment to End The Disparity In Cancer Community, raising our voices for increased clinical trial participation among younger and minority populations and shining a spotlight on breast and colon cancer.
The air was electric with a profound mix of emotions from tears of remembrance to the joyful laughter of survivors celebrating another year of life. We found strength in each other’s eyes, an unspoken understanding that comes from having walked a similar road. Surrounded by so many who “get it,” the feeling was nothing short of incredible. Our shared stories and unwavering spirit made it clear that together, we are an unstoppable force for change.
We are so grateful for the support that made this powerful day possible. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners: Petersburg High School, Daiichi Sankyo, Seagen, Aetna, LuckyRoad, Petersburg Sheriff Department, Saving Pennies 4 A Cure, WAWA, and Buffalo Soldiers Virginia. Your commitment to our vision Access to Quality Cancer Care for Everyone means the world to us and helps us continue our vital work in advocacy and education.
To everyone who walked, ran, volunteered, or simply cheered us on, you were a part of something bigger than all of us. You helped turn our individual burdens into a collective source of strength and hope. We can’t wait to see you at our next event as we continue this journey together, making a lasting impact on behalf of all cancer patients.
