Feature News Story

Even YOU Can Help Find for a Cure for Breast Cancer, by Ericka Seftar, Alverno College

Each year, more and more women are being diagnosed with the life-threatening disease of breast cancer. The Women’s Breast Center of Waukesha, located in Waukesha Memorial Hospital, has hosted an annual RiverWalk since 1997 at Frame Park, to help raise money; this year’s event is hosted on May 2, at 10am. From their website they explain, “This year’s proceeds will make it possible to advance clinical research, support high risk/genetic services, increase awareness of early detection and provide supportive care to breast cancer patients. The RiverWalk will also support the addition of leading-edge technology aimed at ever-improving early detection and treatment of breast cancer.”

Breast Cancer remains one of the top ten reasons women die each year. According to www.cdc.gov, “In 2005, 186,467 women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 41,116 women died from breast cancer.” As the numbers stay steady, the need for research, development and funds intensify. The Center provides support services, additional patient programs, trials, leading-edge technology and results that exceed the national norms; these services aide in medical advancements, prevention and detection of breast cancer. When interviewed, Sarah Zubrik, a traditional RiverWalk participant, told reporters when asked how she felt that events like this affect those with breast cancer, she replied, “Overall, they are able to actually see the support provided by the community, friends and family who are all standing behind them. This gives them a positive outlook on the situation.”

So far, the RiverWalk has become a growing success. Last year, among three walks the Center for Breast Care reports, “they attracted over 8,300 participants who helped raise over $450,000 to benefit cancer research, education, supportive services and more, available right here in Waukesha County.” Reporters asked Sarah what motivates her to walk each year, she replied, “I get involved because the statistics are growing and there is no real known cause as to why some people get breast cancer; it is not only caused by genetics.” Zubrik’s life was affected by the disease when her aunt died when she was five. She recalls that time in her life and how she was affected by the disease, “Every time I saw or heard of a woman dying, I automatically assumed it was because of breast cancer.” Sadly, these situations are not only stories but reality, that’s why it is so important to join the RiverWalk this year, to help raise money to prevent other women from being affected by breast cancer like Sarah’s aunt was.

Anyone is able to join; contributors can consist of teams, individuals or families. Teams are organized with any number of participants and one team leader. The team leader is able to register their team and communicate with other team member about event details. From now until April 30, online registration is available and the fee for each individual is $18. After this time, online registration will no longer be available but people are still able to register on-site, the day of, for $20. This fee does not contribute to donations, rather, additional pledges and contributions made by people are considered donations. Also, examples like Pink Ribbon and the local Freeman also help sponsor the event. The distance once around Frame Park is 1.7 miles but this year an additional 1.1 miles have been added to the route as an option. Keeping the respect of other participants, the Park and City Ordinances, dogs are not allowed to attend. There is limited parking available with additional parking nearby at the Waukesha Courthouse. A shuttle will be provided, free of charge, from the Courthouse to the park for those who wish to use it. Participants are encouraged to sell raffle tickets to increase the income for the RiverWalk ; the purchase of these tickets is one for $1., or six for $5. There are prizes available for the teams that raise the most money for example, a Brewer’s Luxury Box.

Zubrik states the impact the RiverWalk has had on her life, “It has given me a positive impact. When I see women who are walking with pink, fluorescent hats on I know that they have dealt with breast cancer personally. When I see six women walking in a group, it is extremely motivating. Seeing all of the people who attend really shows that people are there to help find a cure.” The need for people to join is crucial. Without dedication and involvement, this event would not be possible.

For more information about the Center for Breast Cancer of Waukehsa and their annual RiverWalk, visit their website at www.waukeshariverwalk.org.