September 3, 2011
The Charlottesville Women's 4 Miler took place Saturday morning, showing the area's united effort in the fight against breast cancer.
The race got underway at the hand of UVa. President Teresa Sullivan, who waved the starting flag.
"The energy here is unbelievable," Sullivan said. "All these people here, all here for a good cause, all of them excited."
Thousands of women either ran or walked the four-mile course along Garth Road in Albemarle County, all supporting each other in the fight against breast cancer. All the money raised goes to the UVa. Breast Care program.
"I know that this race saves lives," UVa. radiologist Dr. Jennifer Harvey said.
No one knows that better than a cancer survivor, like Syd Dorsey. She had breast cancer four years ago and said it was inspiring to see "the sea of women all running for the same cause."
With more than 3,500 runners in the race, every step they take helps battle breast cancer in the Charlottesville area.
"Not only is it a huge event, as it obviously raises awareness about breast cancer, but it raises quite a substantial bit of money," said Dr. David Brenin, co-director of the UVa. Breast Center.
Twenty percent of the money goes toward breast cancer research while the rest goes to patient care. An example of that is providing mammograms and other tests to women who can't afford them.
"It gives me chills because what this is, it's the women in our community and the husbands, the friends, helping other women in our community," Harvey said.
From the sidelines, friends and family show their support in a united effort that doesn't end with the race.
"There are people that have touched everybody out here. Our hope is to continue the research and the studies," Dorsey said.
So even as the women cross the finish line, the race for a cure doesn't end.
This marks the 19th year the race benefits the UVa. Breast Center. The goal is to raise $400,000, and organizers still need help to reach it. Learn more at the 4 Miler website.
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