Texas Border Business
MISSION, TEXAS – Based on current guidance and out of an abundance of caution for the health and safety of participants, the American Cancer Society and Mission Regional Medical Center have decided to host a virtual 11th Annual Mission Pink Walk/Run this year. The socially distanced format will allow participants to complete the 5K walk/run at a location or their choosing during the dates of October 10th-31st in communities across the Rio Grande Valley. We will be highlighting 4 official “Mission Pink” trails, City of Mission, Mission Hike and Bike Trail, City of McAllen, McAllen Hike and Bike Trail, City of Weslaco, Harlon Block Sports Complex, city of Harlingen, McKelvey Park.
Dollars raised for Mission Pink will help the American Cancer Society fund critical patient programs in the Rio Grande Valley, breakthroughs in breast cancer research, and prevention and early detection awareness and education. Over the past several years, the American Cancer Society helped more than 2,500 people in the Rio Grande Valley with cancer information, support, and help with patient services or programs. Anyone who wants to participate can find more information on how to sign up at www.makingstrideswalk.org/riograndetx.
“Under the best of circumstances, a cancer diagnosis can be frightening and devastating,” said Nancy Gutierrez Garza, Community Development Manager with the American Cancer Society.“Now, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to hurt our communities, cancer patients – many who already have compromised immune systems – are more vulnerable than ever. That’s why it’s so important to raise funds to support breast cancer patients and create a sense of community for survivors and caregivers. This year’s virtual 5K walk/run is a great way to do your part in our fight against cancer. Cancer hasn’t stopped during COVID-19 and neither have we.”
The Mission Pink event aims to raise awareness on the importance of breast self-examination for the early detection of breast cancer. Last year, more than 3,000 people of all ages traveled to Mission Regional to participate. It was one of the largest breast cancer walks in the Rio Grande Valley and drew people from as far away as Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and Monterrey, Mexico. Additionally, Mission Regional Medical Center’s “Mission Pink” was one of the first events in Hidalgo County to advance the importance of awareness and early detection of breast cancer, while raising vital funds for education and the treatment of breast cancer.
“As a non-profit organization, Mission Regional Medical Center is always proactive about engaging in activities that will benefit the health of the community,” said Kane Dawson, CEO, Mission Regional Medical Center. “And Mission Pink does exactly that – it reminds women to get themselves checked and schedule their annual mammograms.”
“Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” is the largest network of breast cancer awareness events in the nation, with more than 1 million passionate participants supporting the noncompetitive three- to five-mile walks each year. Dollars raised through these breast cancer walks help the American Cancer Society fund innovative breast cancer research; provide education and guidance to help people reduce their risk; and offer comprehensive patient support services in the Rio Grande Valley to those who need it most.
