Race For The Cure 2006

Some called it a sisterhood of survivors as over 13,000 pounded the pavement to help the Komen Foundation by raising support and funds. The event kicked off early Saturday morning at the Northwest Arkansas Mall. Participants had a fun walk, the 5-k, and post-race activities to enjoy but for survivors, this was more than just a race. "I am a survivor. I have not missed in the last eight years, and I just couldnt think of not being here," says Edith Garland. Lavada Trusty, who is a seven year cancer survivor, agrees. "This gives you such a good feeling in your heart-to come out here and to see all the people support you like this." And Carmen Snyder, who is a 15 year breast cancer survivor, says this race is especially meaningful for her. "I always did this race with my daughters in California. Im here alone, but theyre with me in my heart. This race makes me very proud and it makes me know that one day, this isnt going to be." Others, like Jenny Murphy, ran in celebration of friends. "Im here to run for a friend of a family, Sharon Craig of Hamburg. She is a dear, dear friend who is battling this disease, and Im here in honor of her today." But the race wasnt just for adults. Kids of all ages were enjoying the many activities from moon-walking to face-painting. And while kids were there to have fun, one boy was supporting his grandmother. "She got sick, she has breast cancer. But shes feeling a little bit better." And as this years race comes to a close, Marilyn Smith says she feels fortunate. "I feel blessed...blessed to be here and to be one of the survivors." The foundation raised over $800,000 this year. Seventy-five percent of that will be used to fund local breast cancer projects.