Running Gives Back: Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Provides Inspiration

Written by Marketing Intern Katy Rowan

As someone who used to be an avid runner, lost touch with the sport, and now wants to get back into it, it’s sometimes hard to find the motivation necessary to go for that morning jog.  After doing some research, however, I’ve decided to look no further than Susan G. Komen for the Cure for the perfect amount of inspiration.

Making quite the impact with more than 800 runners at its inaugural race in Dallas, Texas back in 1983, Susan G. Komen for the Cure has continued to increase breast cancer awareness and raise money for the cause nearly 30 years later.  Each race also celebrates breast cancer survivors and honors those who’ve passed on.

In addition to races held all over the country, the Susan G. Komen Global Race for the Cure is held annually in Washington, D.C. Most recently held on June 4, this year’s race drew 44,000 participants and raised over $5 million to fund breast cancer programs in the D.C. area and across the world.

Local races benefit the organization as well.  According to the Find a Race website, as much as 75% of the net money raised actually stays in the race city’s community and goes toward funding health education and breast cancer screening and treatment projects.  The other 25% supports the Komen for the Cure Award and Research Grant Programs, which fund breakthrough research, awards, and global conferences.

So, the next time you find yourself lacking the energy to go for a walk or run, think again.  Think of all of those who suffer from breast cancer.  Think of all of those who have survived.  Think of all of those who have lost their lives.  Remember how lucky you are, and take that inspiration to the pavement. 

Get out and exercise so you too can participate in the Race for the Cure.  Running or walking may not appear all that exciting, but running or walking for the cure is absolutely exhilarating.  Take your first step today and find out for yourself.

To sign up for a race in your community, please visit http://tinyurl.com/ydv4ml4.  To sign up for next year’s Global Race for the Cure, please visit http://tinyurl.com/ydg3tw7.

To simply learn more about Susan G. Komen or to make a donation, please visit http://ww5.komen.org/.