A walk of hope

MONTROSE — Whether it was in memory of a lost loved one or to honor the inspirational fight of a friend, more than 900 people participated in the 16th annual Bosom Buddies "One Step Closer to Help and Hope" walk/run Saturday morning.

A mass of men, women, children and dogs marched from the Montrose Pavilion. They crowded the roadway as they made their way east on Niagara Road. Dogs supported pink bandanas; groups stood apart by their themed outfits.

Some participants held signs in memory of friends and family members whose fight with breast cancer ended.

The number of signs pinned to the back of shirts made one grasp the masses affected by breast cancer. And though it was sad for the many who have lost, the crowd of people participating in the annual event brought hope.

"It was just wonderful," said Francie Smiles, Bosom Buddies member and organizer of the walk/run.

Isaiah Pelham and Michelle Fish were walking with their dog Sophie. They also walked with Isaiah's mom, Patricia Pelham, who is a five-year survivor of breast cancer.

"(The event) touches my heart," Patricia said. "I think back on everything I went through, it gives me hope, courage to go on."

Kelly Lynch organized a group to walk Saturday in memory of Penny Jo Trainor, who passed away in April after 13 years fighting breast cancer. The group of six women all wore charm bracelets to honor Trainor.

"She taught us many lessons as a woman, and strength, being positive," Lynch said.

Pat Knollenberg has been a breast cancer survivor for 15 months. She was glowing as she finished the race, only having to rest once. Twelve members of her church, the United Church of San Juan in Ridgway, were there to support her and to honor other friends.

A handful of the women wore bras backwards, each breast with the name of a friend who dealt with breast cancer.

"It's for them. I know they're watching," said Carolyn Stiltner. "Viola" and "Susan" were written on her bra.

Whether it was through just participating or by displaying the "Save the Ta-Tas!" shirt, the amount of support shown was hopeful, said many cancer survivors.

Last year the event, combined with Friday's live and silent auction, raised about $40,000, said Smiles. All the funds stay with the local Bosom Buddies group and go to local breast cancer patients.

The exact number of participants and amount raised this year was not available as of press time.