During the month of October the Ross Medical Education Center Port Huron, Michigan campus observed Breast Cancer Awareness month by participating in the annual Strides Against Breast Cancer walk hosted by the American Cancer Society. This special event consists of a 5k scenic route through the city of Port Huron, and along the Blue Water Bridge boardwalk. To kick off the event, Nicole Saco, Community Manager for the American Cancer Society, visited the campus to share information with staff and students. During her visit Ms. Saco presented valuable information as to where donated funds are allocated and how participants can raise funds for the cause. The campus created a team on the event website where staff and students could register for the race, contribute monetarily, and read event information.
On Saturday, October 10th, students and staff joined together in their pink attire prepared to walk in honor and remembrance of breast cancer survivors as well as those that lost the fight. The American Cancer Society provided a “Survivor” tent for those brave individuals to gather with their families and friends to share their journey. A fitness group demonstrated warm-up exercises with the crowd to promote movement on the chilly fall morning. The Port Huron students and staff wore special pink Ross t-shirts to display unity. At 9:00 a.m. the march began and participants of all ages took off throughout the city. Volunteers of the American Cancer Society were stationed throughout the walk to encourage and cheer on participants. They also provided a refreshment table half-way through the path where walkers could take a short break if they needed one.
Crossing the finish line was a celebration! A crowd of supporters cheered on those as they completed the walk at the college campus. Healthy snacks and beverages were offered while a DJ played upbeat music. Participants could also take photos with props provided by one the event sponsors. Ross students gathered together before leaving the event to take photos and celebrate together. Shannon Cobb, Port Huron Career Services Representative, shared about the day, “the walk is great experience for students to meet outside of classroom time and join the community in supporting the hope for a cure.” The Port Huron campus hopes to continue their involvement in the years to come both in donation and participation in the Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.