The Connecticut Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is excited to announce that in addition to its existing Hartford Race, it will bring the first annual Race for the Cure to Fairfield County in 2013.
The race will be held in Westport at the Sherwood Island State Park on Saturday, May 11th, Mother's Day weekend, just weeks before the organization's 20th Annual Race for the Cure in Hartford on June 1, 2013. The family event raises awareness and funds for breast cancer research and local breast cancer programs.
Connecticut has the second highest incidence of breast cancer in the nation and several Fairfield County towns are among those with the highest rates of breast cancer incidence, mortality and late stage diagnosis.
Statewide, over 3,000 Connecticut women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone. That is why the work of Komen Connecticut and events like the Race for the Cure are so vital, and already making a difference in the lives of women in Fairfield County and the rest of the state.
Until we find the cures for breast cancer, early detection is the key to survival. For each of the past three years, Komen Connecticut has funded over $1 Million in community grants to local organizations providing lifesaving services for women in need across our state.
These grants currently support breast cancer programs in Fairfield County, including: Norwalk Hospital, Bridgeport Hospital, Stamford Hospital, St. Vincent's Hospital and CancerCare, among others.
Seventy five percent of Komen Connecticut's net revenue supports local breast health programs across Connecticut and the remaining twenty five percent is invested in research to find the causes and cures for the disease. Not a penny of the money raised in Connecticut goes to support Komen National administration.
Although the organization invests in Connecticut breast cancer programs, much of its fundraising has historically taken place in the Hartford area.
"The Westport Race for the Cure is an exciting next step for our organization," said Anne Morris, Executive Director of Komen Connecticut. "We are proud of the statewide impact of our community grants, and are thrilled to have a greater presence in Fairfield County. We need the support of all our local communities to help us continue investing in cutting-edge research and local breast cancer programs for Connecticut women and their families."
"The Race for the Cure presents us with an opportunity to celebrate survivorship, honor those who have lost their battles, and impact local residents by raising funds to support education, screening and treatment programs right here in our state," said Morris. "This event is the perfect platform to empower Fairfield County residents to join the local fight against breast cancer.
Events at the Westport Race for the Cure include a 5K Race, 5K and 1.5K Walks, a Kids' Short Run and Kids' K and a Survivor Breakfast. Registration will open in January.
Komen Connecticut is currently offering sponsorship opportunities to local businesses and corporations, and is also seeking volunteers and committee members. For more information and to get involved, visit KomenCT.org, email race@komenct.org or call 860-321-7806.
