The annual More Than Pink Walk in Hawaii is set to take place this Sunday at Kapiolani Park, uniting the community to raise crucial funds for breast cancer research and support services. This event, organized by the Susan G. Komen foundation, serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing battle against breast cancer, with statistics highlighting the urgency of the cause: every two minutes, a woman in the United States is diagnosed with this disease, and every 12 minutes, a life is lost.
Breast cancer does not discriminate; it affects women across all backgrounds and circumstances. The impact is felt deeply within families and communities, emphasizing the importance of collective action. As the community gears up for the walk, the message is clear: progress in combating breast cancer relies on everyone’s participation.
This year, an estimated 43,000 lives are expected to be lost to breast cancer in the United States, many of which could be prevented with timely and equitable medical care. The disease becomes particularly dangerous when it reaches stage 4, known as metastatic breast cancer, which poses the most significant risk to patients. Through fundraising efforts, participants aim to change this narrative.
Funds raised during the More Than Pink Walk will support vital initiatives, including groundbreaking research, bold public policy efforts, and essential patient services. Over the past three decades, Susan G. Komen has contributed to the development of 29 new breast cancer drugs, demonstrating the impact of dedicated funding for research.
In addition to advancing research, the foundation plays a crucial role in ensuring that patients have access to the care and support they need. This includes assistance in navigating treatment options, financial aid for eligible patients, and emotional support through the Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1-877-GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636). This helpline connects individuals concerned about breast cancer with resources such as screening information, clinical trials, and genetic counseling.
In a call to action, Rolanda Morgan, the executive director of Susan G. Komen Hawaii, encourages the community to participate in this year’s walk. “Together, we can turn hope into action and advance toward the day when breast cancer is no longer a threat to our loved ones,” she stated. Morgan emphasizes the vital role that every donation, volunteer effort, and advocacy action plays in bridging the funding gap faced by breast cancer initiatives.
The More Than Pink Walk is not just an event; it embodies a collective commitment to fighting breast cancer. Each step taken contributes to better outcomes, earlier diagnoses, and lifesaving care for those impacted by this disease. As participants gather on October 1, 2023, they will honor survivors, support those currently undergoing treatment, and remember those who have tragically lost their lives to breast cancer.
For more information about the event and how to get involved, visit www.komen.org/community/hawaii or call 808-466-1624. Ending breast cancer requires a united effort, and the More Than Pink Walk is a vital step toward achieving that goal.
