Women and men donned their decorative pink bras over their shirts, pink wigs and pink ribbon airbrushed tattoos in support of Tallahassee’s 8th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, sponsored by the American Cancer Society.
Thousands of people attended to show their support toward the cause. The host of pink bras was supposed to symbolize how personal the fight against breast cancer really is.
Glenda Thornton, one of the event co-chair was extremely happy to see the huge turnout.
“As a four -year breast cancer survivor, it just feels incredible to see so many people, especially young people, out here to support this cause,” Thornton said.
Anna Smith, donned in a pink wig, with an actual breast cancer awareness ribbon tattoo, enjoyed her first year participating in Tallahassee.
“My sister is a 14-year breast cancer survivor,” Smith said. “I’m doing this for her.”
Tallahassee has raised $900,000 over the past seven years toward the research and possible cure for breast cancer.
“This has to be the most passionate event I’ve ever seen,” Smith said.
Tallahassee’s Capital Health Plan gave away free gift bags, Tallahassee Roller Girls volunteered with parking services and local radio station Blazin 102.3 was on hand to participate in festivities.
After a moment of silence, survivors and family members of survivors went on stage and told their stories.
Elizabeth Rankin and Sarah Brown, identical twin sisters, spoke cancer in thier family.
While on stage, the twins introduced their mother, Lynda White, a 24-year cancer survivor. The emotional White was overwhelmed with joy.
“It’s so wonderful to see so many people fight for this disease. Survival rates are so much better now than when my sister died. I just hope my granddaughters don’t have to go through this,” White said.
Lelah Kelly, Miss Tallahassee USA, was ready to walk with her crown and sneakers.
“It’s an honor to support something so big,” Kelly said.
“Every year, the event grows,” said Thornton. “We’re just excited for next year.”