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Welcome to our AEP ONE Komen community team page!
As a member of this team, we are each playing a part in helping Susan G. Komen® in their ONE mission to end breast cancer forever.
The money raised will fund research to discover more effective treatments, as well as vital patient support to help connect people with things like breast cancer screenings, diagnostics, treatment assistance and so much more.
Komen Race for the Cure: A Celebration of Hope and Progress
Every year, thousands of people come together to participate in the Komen Race for the Cure, a 5K race that raises awareness and funds for breast cancer research and treatment. This event is not just a race but a celebration of hope and progress in the fight against breast cancer.
The Komen Race for the Cure was first held in 1983, when Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. Since then, the race has grown into a global movement, with more than 150 events held each year in more than 50 countries.
The race is open to people of all ages and fitness levels, and participants can choose to run, walk, or even dance their way to the finish line. Many participants form teams with friends, family members, or co-workers and compete in honor of someone they know who has been affected by breast cancer.
This year, one of our very own, Amanda Wilkinson, will serve as our Komen Champion and invites you to walk alongside her…and her mom… on May 18 at the North Bank Park in Columbus, Ohio!
Here is Amanda’s story
“What inspired me to participate the first time was to do it in support of my mom going through treatment at the time and in memory of my grandmother. My mom and I did our first race together in 2022, the year after her diagnosis. Both my mother and grandmother had breast cancer. My mom’s journey began in April of 2021. She was diagnosed during a yearly mammogram. Things went fairly quickly after that—bilateral Mastectomy and DIEP flap reconstruction in June. She began four rounds of chemotherapy in September after healing from surgery. She is now almost three years out and on estrogen blockers for a few more years.
My mom and I have participated in two races so far and are signed up to do our third one together this year. The Komen race means a lot to me. Participating in the race the first time was overwhelming for both my mom and I. For her, it was seeing so many people going through the same thing, and it was the first time she didn't feel alone. For both of us, it felt so good to see all the love and support. The most memorable parts for me are walking with my mom, Thunder Tunnel, and seeing my mom ending the race at the survivor's lane. We both definitely cry happy tears just being in the environment. The support for survivors and those still in the battle is unbelievable. The impact I see on the community is that everyone forgets their differences and comes together to support the cause.
I will continue to participate in the race because Komen provides research funding in the battle against breast cancer. I would say to anyone who is considering participating, would be, do it. You would be helping victims of cancer, families of those who lost the battle, and those who are still fighting. The feeling of everyone coming together is awesome. “
So, what’s next?
The Komen Race for the Cure is about more than just raising awareness and funds.
Not a runner? Not a power walker? That’s okay!
In addition to the race itself, the Komen Race for the Cure also features a variety of activities and events, including a survivor ceremony, a health and fitness expo, and a Kids for the Cure area for children. These events help create community and support among participants and allow people to learn more about breast cancer prevention and treatment.
If you want to make a difference in the fight against breast cancer, consider participating in the Komen Race for the Cure. Whether you are a survivor, a supporter, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, this event is an opportunity to come together with others and celebrate the hope and progress we have achieved.
Join Amanda by signing up today!