Susan B. Komen – Race For The Cure
As we watched the NFL games this past Sunday, we were reminded by the players’ pink gloves, armbands and shoes, that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In New Orleans, the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure will be held on October 22 in City Park. The Race for the Cure is an amazing opportunity to come out enjoy the weather and help raise money for a good cause.
The first Race for the Cure I participated in was in Indianapolis, in memoriam of Mary Kathleen Boyle, the woman who would have been my mother-in-law. I was engaged at the time, and extremely saddened by the story my future-husband would tell of the woman who lost her more than 20-year battle with breast cancer five years prior to our meeting. I ran the race with my best friend, among thousands of other Hoosiers decked out in various shades of pink. Several things were remarkable about that day. It was April in Indiana, the sun was shining, and the temperatures were in the 70’s (rare for that time of year). People of all shapes and sizes came out for the event- generations of families, parents pushing strollers, groups of women walking arm in arm. Many participants had photos and names of friends and family members for whom they were walking or running in honor. What was the most impactful about that day was the participation of the survivors. Some survivors had been cancer-free for more than 20 years, while others were still actively in treatment. Although not all would be able to complete the 5K course, their presence was a nonverbal testament to their strength and courage.
Since that first race, I have tried to make my participation an annual event, each time with renewed inspiration and awe of those fighting this battle. This year, Baudry Therapy Center will be running as a team. We would love to have as many participants as possible. Click here to join our team!
What has been your experience with this event? Please post some of your favorite memories in our comments section.
Taryn Cohn MSPT, COMT
Photo: WildChild1976
Soon we will have cooler temperatures, which is the perfect opportunity to start exercising outdoors or increase the amount you are currently training. Fall and winter in New Orleans are ideal for running.