Susan G. Komen's Race for the Cure is a fundraising and educational event in support of breast cancer. The series of events include walks and running races commonly held in October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. United States' races are endorsed by USA Track & Field. Over 1.5 million people of all ages participate in local Race for the Cure events in four continents. The Race for the Cure is the largest series fitness walks and 5K runs in the world.
History
Susan G. Komen was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1977. She battled the cancer until she was 36, succumbing to the disease in 1980. Before passing away, Komen asked her sister Nancy Brinker to continue the fight against breast cancer. Brinker started the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in 1982 in Dallas. The first Race for the Cure was held in Dallas in 1983 and included 800 participants.
Fundraising
An important aspect of Race for the Cure is fundraising for education and research. In the United States, 75 percent of the net income of each race stays within the community. The host community uses funds to offer breast health education and breast cancer screening in addition to treatment. The remaining 25 percent of funds raised go to national research efforts to cure breast cancer. Outside of the United States, countries allocate money using varying ratios. Nearly $1 billion has been raised globally for breast cancer awareness, research and support.
Race Traditions
Survivors of breast cancer are acknowledged at each Race for the Cure event during the National Breast Cancer Survivor Recognition Program. Survivors commonly wear pink caps and T-shirts donated by Race for the Cure. Pink is the universally recognized color for breast cancer awareness and is seen throughout the race in attire, balloons and decor. According to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, many participants wear handmade signs on their backs stating "In memory of" or "In celebration of."
Volunteers
Over 100,000 people volunteer at the Race for the Cure annually. Volunteers help with registration, logistics and course preparation prior to each race. Volunteers are rewarded with T-shirts for their efforts. Over 120 affiliate offices are supported by volunteers globally.
Breast Cancer Facts
Nearly one in eight women, or 12 percent, will be diagnosed with breast cancer, according to the National Cancer Society. Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in women. Before 1982, less than 30 percent of women over the age of 40 received mammograms. Currently, 75 percent of women over 40 receive mammograms on a yearly basis. Mammograms are commonly considered one of the most effective tools for detecting breast cancer in its early stages.
