It was a 39-mile journey promoting breast cancer awareness and prevention that began in Santa Barbara and ended in Carpinteria, California.
Among the 2,300 participants in the 13th annual Avon Walk for Breast Cancer held Sept. 12-13 were nearly 300 breast cancer survivors who helped raise $5.3 million, a new record for the event.
The UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center (JCCC) received special recognition during the closing ceremonies at Carpinteria State Park for its continued commitment to research and education to find a cure. The JCCC has established an international reputation for developing targeted cancer therapies and providing leading-edge experimental treatments for the disease.
On hand to receive a $600,000 donation on behalf of the JCCC was Dr. Melinda Maggard Gibbons, UCLA professor of general surgery and a JCCC member. The gift will continue to fund the Avon Cares for Life program, located at the Olive View-UCLA Medical Center. The program is dedicated to enhancing the quality of care for uninsured and low-income patients who have been diagnosed with or are at risk for breast cancer.
For more information about the Avon Walk, visit: http://www.avon39.org/.
