Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka joined the American Cancer Society, survivors and volunteers Monday at the James R. Thompson Center to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness month and promote the 13th Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.
Topinka encouraged Illinois residents to sign-up for one of 21 walks around the state, and thanked the American Cancer Society for uniting communities in honoring breast cancer survivors, increasing awareness and raising money to find a cure.
“In just one morning, participants can make a difference that will that will affect thousands of people for a lifetime,” Topinka said. “These walks help fund American Cancer Society programs that treat cancer patients and assist their families in every Illinois community year-round.”
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is the largest network of breast cancer awareness events in the nation. The American Cancer Society hosts fundraising walks in more than 270 communities nationwide, including an Oct. 20 event in Chicago at Montrose Harbor. Topinka’s office will participate in that walk for the second consecutive year. Last year 45 walkers from the Comptroller’s Office donated more than $5,700.
According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight Illinois women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
“Making Strides Against Breast Cancer unites us to walk together as the most powerful force to end breast cancer,” said Jackie Burgess-Bishop Vice President of the American Cancer Society’s Chicago and West Cook regional offices. “Today, one in every two women newly diagnosed with breast cancer reaches out to us for help and support. We’re here 24 hours a day with information, answers and emotional support. The progress we are making is remarkable, but we need volunteers to join us and step-by-step work to win this fight.”
The American Cancer Society’s combines unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to fight breast cancer on all fronts and save lives. For more information about the 13th Annual Making Stride Breast Cancer walks or to register, visit makingstridesillinois.com or call 312-279-7376.
