For those whose lives have been touched by breast cancer, the Susan G. Komen Northwest Ohio Race for the Cure is more than a race. It is a day to remember, celebrate survivors, honor those battling the disease and come together in the fight to end breast cancer.
The annual event returns Sunday, Sept. 27, in downtown Toledo, bringing runners, walkers, survivors, families, friends and supporters together for a morning dedicated to Komen’s mission.
Gretchen Awad, executive director of Susan G. Komen Northwest Ohio, said the organization’s mission has remained consistent through the years.“That mission is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs of our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer. We have two strategic imperatives — conquer deadly breast cancer to allow people to live longer, better lives, and ensure people get the quality care they need and deserve.”
The days activities begin at 7 am with activities in Hensville Park and on St. Clair Street. A Survivor Ceremony is scheduled for approximately 8:15 am, followed by the Parade of Hope leading participants to the Opening Ceremony.
The 5K race and walk begin at 9:30 am. Participants may also choose a one-mile route.
The event will be hosted by Melissa Andrews of WTOL, with Chrys Peterson serving as the Northwest Ohio Race for the Cure honorary chair. The WTOL team will provide live coverage throughout the morning. The race morning will also feature activities designed to make the event more than a race. Survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer are invited to visit Hope Village for giveaways and pampering. Pink bagels from Barry Bagels, sponsor giveaways and other activities will add to the celebration. A Mercy Health mobile mammography unit will be available at the event for immediate mammogram screenings.
Registration is $45 for adults and $35 for youth under 18. Registration is available at komen.org/nwohiorace or by scanning the QR code in the ad below. Every registered participant will receive an event T-shirt. Survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer will receive shirts in special colors recognizing their role in the event. Shirts will be available for pickup on race morning. They will not be mailed after the race, so participants who cannot attend are encouraged to arrange for someone to pick up their shirt.
Dogs are welcome to participate in the event and on the course, provided they remain leashed at all times for the safety of the dogs and other participants.
Awad said monies raised through Komen events are placed into a central fund, allowing the organization to respond to breast cancer needs in communities of all sizes. “The money is accessible to everyone, from a small rural area to a large metro area,” she said. “If you need and have challenges receiving equitable health care, Komen steps in, no matter where you live.” She also emphasized that breast cancer does not affect women alone. “Men are also susceptible to breast cancer,” she said.
Participants can earn additional rewards through Komen’s Fundraising Rewards Program. Registrants receive one reward point for every dollar raised, with bonus opportunities available for those who raise $100. Points can be redeemed through the Komen Incentive Store for exclusive rewards, subject to program terms and availability. Another incentive comes from Buck and Knobby, which will raffle a riding mower to anyone who makes a donation to its team.
For Awad, however, the heart of the event isn’t the race itself. It is the people who show up.
“My hope is that anyone who wants to celebrate, registers, brings family and friends, donates, and invites people to join this event to support Komen’s mission,” she said. “This day is for them.”
On Sept. 27, the streets of downtown Toledo will once again be filled with people walking and running for the same reason — to make sure no one faces breast cancer alone.