Local Breast Cancer Organizations Reap the Benefits

New York, NY-- More than 3,500 participants in this weekend’s Avon Walk for Breast Cancer New York broke event records, raising $9.7 million to advance access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer. At today’s closing ceremony at the South Street Seaport, Avon Foundation Executive Director Carol Kurzig announced grants that were immediately awarded thanks to the women and men who walked up to 39 miles over the weekend.

During the Avon Walk New York, walkers had a choice of walking a marathon (26.2 miles) or a marathon and a half (39.3 miles) over the weekend. The event kicked off Saturday, October 7, with an early morning opening ceremony at the South Street Seaport and an immediate reminder of the impact of breast cancer from New York Resident Mandy Szulimowski, who, at just 26 years old, is a 2-year breast cancer survivor.

After her diagnosis at age 24, Szulimowski tattooed a small pink ribbon on her left wrist as a constant reminder of what she battled, and as a conversation-starter to help raise awareness that breast cancer can impact anyone.

“Beating breast cancer gave me a new lease on life,” Szulimowski said, “I am here today so other women my age know that if they are diagnosed with breast cancer, someone is walking to help provide them treatment, support and someday, a cure.”

Following the inspiring opening, walkers began their journey from one end of Manhattan to the other, from west side to east, supported by a volunteer crew every step of the way. After completing the first day of walking, participants spent Saturday night in 1,750 two-person tents in the Avon Walk “Wellness Village” on Randall’s Island, complete with hot showers, prepared meals, entertainment, and comprehensive medical services. On Sunday, October 8, walkers completed another 13.1 miles through the east side, lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, concluding with the celebratory closing ceremony back at South Street Seaport.