Steppin’ Out in Pink raises more than $400,000

This year's Steppin’ Out in Pink fundraising walk raised $402,500 for local breast cancer research and patient support programs.

“It was a moment of pride for Gundersen Health System and our community," said Stephen Shapiro, MD, chair of Gundersen Medical Foundation. "It was incredibly moving to see so many survivors here with us and how their lives have been impacted because of how we take care of them. It is a prime example of Love + Medicine.”

More than 400 breast cancer survivors and 4,000 supporters walked together Sept. 9 in La Crosse's Riverside Park so that future generations won't have to.

Since the event began in 2006, more than $7 million raised has:

• Supported research to find answers  
• Purchased diagnostic instruments to detect breast cancer sooner 
• Subsidized mammograms because everyone deserves screenings  

In addition to survivors and supporters, this year's event also drew 400 volunteers and more than 50 vendors.

Recent examples of impact from fundraising include the purchase of 3D mammography units in La Crosse and Winona, ongoing funding for wigs, head coverings and Radiant Wraps and developing a boutique for cancer patients in Tomah.

“Seeing survivors gather together was instant validation of why raising money for this cause is so incredibly important," said Heather Schimmers, RN, President, Gundersen Health System.

Funds from this year’s event will support a variety of initiatives. For example, $50,000 will be transferred to the Paula’s Purse cancer patient fund and
$100,000 to Gundersen’s Kabara Cancer Research Institute.

You can give now or walk with us in the fight against breast cancer for Steppin’ Out in Pink on Sept. 14, 2024, in downtown La Crosse. 

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