On Saturday, Sandy hosted the American Cancer Society’s annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk at America First Field. The event brought together survivors, caregivers, families and local supporters to honor those lost to breast cancer and to raise money for research, advocacy and patient services.
Local Impact and Hope Lodge
Each year, about 1,100 cancer patients and their caregivers stay at the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Salt Lake City, where they receive free lodging while traveling for treatment. The 41‑room lodge, opened in 2015, is a vital resource for Utah families facing the challenges of cancer care.
Personal Stories Drive the Cause
Tina Winrow’s participation is deeply personal. Her mother, Sharon, died from breast cancer after a long battle of chemotherapy, radiation and countless doctor appointments. “It was hard, my whole world,” Winrow recalled. “I went to her, and then I realized I was on my own.”
Two years after Sharon’s death, friends invited Tina and her husband, Rick, to join a breast cancer walk. When those friends moved away, the Winrows took over the fundraising team, Think Pink, and have raised about $40,000 over the past nine years, according to Rick Winrow. The team continues fundraising activities throughout the year, not just on the October walk day.
Community Support
Arlene Larsen first met Think Pink as a jewelry vendor at one of the team’s fundraising markets three years ago. She now describes herself as a committed friend of the cause. “This is just such a great cause,” Larsen said. “The community getting together to do something fantastic… even to find a cure, it gives people hope.”
Statewide Breast Cancer Outlook
The American Cancer Society estimates that 2,380 Utah women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and another 170 Utah women are expected to die from the disease. Events like Making Strides help fund the research and support services needed to improve those numbers.
Event Details
Registration for the walk began at 9 a.m., followed by a pre‑walk program at 9:30 a.m. The walk itself started at 10 a.m. and concluded with a celebration of community spirit and a shared commitment to finding a cure.
For families like the Winrows, continuing the work is a way to honor loved ones and to give hope to those still fighting. “I think she’d be proud of me,” Tina said. “I really am doing something for her.”
Original reporting: FOX 13 KSTU (Salt Lake County) — read the source article.
