The Susan G. Komen foundation is a nationwide organization dedicated to helping fight against breast cancer. Our local Tidewater division hosted a 5K race to support breast cancer awareness. Our Beliefnet team woke up early to embark on the challenge. The event took place in Virginia Beach, VA at the oceanfront and hosted over 8,000 participants.

Participants were allowed to run or walk; there was no pressure to race to the finish line in a designated amount of time. However, for those competitors they offered chips to track progress and time.

Men, women, kids and even their animals participated in the event which brought light to the cause and those that are affected by breast cancer. Everyone represented their pink with their shirts, bras, crowns, wings, tutus, or any attire they could customize – nothing was off limits. As I walked amongst the other participants, I felt myself become nostalgic by the unity that all of us strangers developed. We were all there to support a great cause and an amazing foundation.

Many participants walked in support and in memory of their loved ones, as they displayed their names in honor on their apparel. To those people they weren’t only supporting a great cause; they were supporting a loved one who was attacked by breast cancer.

As my friend and I finished the race, we felt a sense of accomplishment run through our souls. Suddenly, the cold winds, weather and early wake-up call were worth it all. We were able to support a cause that we believed in and that was dear to our hearts.  It was refreshing to experience such a feeling of accomplishment and self gratification from walking in support of a great cause. We’re already looking forward to next year.

If you’re interested in participating in a race in your area or ways that you can help fight for breast cancer awareness click here.