Making Strides Against Breast Cancer takes over Milwaukee's lakefront
Behind every step, there's a story. There are stories of loss, survival, strength and support.
"I lost my mom to cancer. This means a lot," said participant Aja Chestine.
"Just the community, cancer survivors themselves, cancer patients, cancer families," said participant Alicia Ramirez.
The American Cancer Society calls the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk a movement, designed to unite communities to end breast cancer as we know it, for everyone.
"It's a really good feeling to be out here. The energy is like – it's good energy," said Yani Dixon, who walked for loved ones.
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The American Cancer Society said breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the U.S., except for skin cancers.
While breast cancer deaths in the U.S. continue to fall, the American Cancer Society recently published a report warning of a rise in cases among women younger than 50. The CDC said for many women, mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat.
"I am stage four with metastatic breast cancer because the breast cancer spread to my bones. But I am here living with metastatic breast cancer. Thankful to research. Thankful to the doctors," said Keeshia Jones, who was the honorary survivor at this year's walk. "I'm walking, I'm striving, I'm doing this for you, I'm standing, and I'm thankful."
Gratitude, with every step and every story shared.
"Just the love. The love," added Aja.
"There are people out here fighting for you and supporting you and standing behind you," added Yani.
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Whether it was a cancer survivor, a family member or just someone from this community, people left the walk motivated to face whatever may come their way.
FOX6 News partnered with organizers at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. Members of the FOX6 News team talked with survivors and thrivers, and Mary Stoker Smith emceed the event.
