SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC NEWS) — Making Strides of Syracuse is set to walk for a cure this month. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is the number one cancer movement in the U.S., and the Syracuse chapter of the organization is returning this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Syracuse is a hub of healthcare employees. With Crouse Hospital, Upstate Medical University, and more, the breast cancer cause is nothing short of important in Central New York. Making Strides Staff Partner Robert Elinskas says the community within the organization is strong.
“Some of our best volunteers are survivors because they’ve been through this and they know how important it is to continue to fund research and find that next breakthrough and support other patients on their journeys,” said Elinskas.
The main event of Making Strides is their walk every Breast Cancer Awareness October. The walk, though short, is a fundraising opportunity for a cure and providing care to those with less access to the equipment that Syracuse healthcare facilities have.
“Having the care is great, don’t get me wrong, we’re lucky to have the cutting-edge technology and care that we have, but it’s making sure that people have access to that care too. We advocate every year for the New York State Cancer Services Program which provides free screening for people that have little or no health insurance,” said Elinskas.
This year’s fundraising goal is $185,000. The total is currently just over $83,000, with some individual participants raising well over $1,000. Making Strides hopes to spread awareness throughout the year, not just in the month of October. Elinskas believes the energy that is being put into Breast Cancer Awareness month and the Making Strides event should be a year-long effort.
“Cancer doesn’t know particular timelines, and people get diagnosed every month, and they all need those supports. Whenever they can do it to make that difference, we’re welcome to help and support them however we can,” said Elinskas.
The event is being held on the morning of October 15 in Clinton Square. Registration is free. For more information, visit https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR?pg=entry&fr_id=105628 .