More than 18,000 people laced up their sneakers for the 21st annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure over the weekend in Newport Beach, raising more than $2 million for the fight against breast cancer, according to race officials.
As it stands the race generated $2,071,763 for breast cancer resources, but the $3 million fundraising goal is expected to be met by the donation deadline on Oct. 31, according to a statement from Carlie Wilhite, event spokeswoman.
“We are so impressed to see supporters from all over Orange County and the world come out to support the fight to end breast cancer,” Lisa Wolter, executive director of the Orange County affiliate, said in a released statement. “Seventy five percent of the funds raised will go directly back into our community to provide breast health services, education, mammograms and other financial and medical breast health support to those who are uninsured and underinsured.”
The remaining 25 percent of funds raised will be dedicated to the Komen Award and Research Grant Program to fund breast cancer research.
More than 1,200 race participants were breast cancer survivors while many others raced for a family member of friend affected by breast cancer. Wilhite said the Race for the Cure wrapped up Sunday with more than 1,000 breast cancers survivors holding up pink roses as white doves were released into the sky.
Donations are being accepted through Oct. 31 at komenoc.org.
