Saturday morning's grey skies were no match for the more than 6,100 walkers, including 260 breast cancer survivors, who participated in Gundersen's 11th annual Steppin' Out in Pink to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research.
"I'm proud to announce another remarkable year. As of Tuesday, at least $380,000 has been raised with pledges still coming in," comments Debbie Kroner, associate director of Development – Special Events, Gundersen Medical Foundation. "Eleven years ago, Steppin' Out in Pink started and every year the spirit of our community continues to grow—and continues to amaze me."
Since its inception in 2006, Steppin' Out in Pink participation has more than doubled and brought in nearly $4.1 million to fund breast cancer research initiatives at Gundersen Medical Foundation; provide assistance to breast cancer patients in need including life-saving mammograms; and lend support to the services of the Gundersen's Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders and Norma J. Vinger Center for Breast Care.
"Our community should be proud of the progress we've made for local breast cancer research and the number of lives touched. Every walker, every sponsor, every volunteer and every supporter helps bring us closer to a cure. We truly appreciate each and every one of you," says Kroner.