Walks raise millions for breast cancer research

By Larry Hartstein

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

It was a good weekend for breast cancer research.

The Breast Cancer 3-Day, a 60-mile trek from Lake Lanier to Turner Field ending Sunday, drew 2,200 walkers and raised $5.6 million. It benefits Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund.

"Atlanta has always been one of our most supportive events, and we were really pleased with what our participants did this weekend," said Jenne Fromm, national spokeswoman for the Breast Cancer 3-Day, which is held in 15 cities. "It just shows how passionate they are."

Each participant had to raise at least $2,300.

The American Cancer Society's 11th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer on Saturday -- a three-mile walk starting and ending at Atlantic Station -- drew a record turnout of 16,000 and raised $1.1 million. The crowd exceeded last year's turnout by 4,000.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States after skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 200,000 new cases will be diagnosed this year.