CUMBERLAND — The annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk of Western Maryland has been enthusiastically supported by people, organizations and businesses for years.
The support has changed the lives of those involved and serves as a reminder of a giving community. This year’s event will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday at Allegany College of Maryland.
Organizers have planned a day filled with inspiration, hope and love, uniting survivors, caregivers and supporters from across the community to raise awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society’s breast cancer research, patient services and advocacy efforts.
Together, participants will walk in celebration of hope, in honor of loved ones and in support of a future free from breast cancer.
Kayla Collins serves as the American Cancer Society staff partner, working with the volunteer committee for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Western Maryland. She said her role is minor compared to that of the women who have worked to create, maintain and grow the community outreach effort.
“We are fortunate to have an incredible committee of community leaders who have been dedicated to the American Cancer Society for many years and are working hard to make this event a success,” Collins said.
The committee has been meeting regularly the past several weeks to plan an event that honors the women and men, who have or who are currently fighting the disease, while honoring the memory of those whose fight has ended.
Collins said the event will feature more than a dozen teams, some of which have participated since Making Strides made its debut many years ago.
“It’s never too late to get involved, gather your friends, family or co-workers to form a team and be part of the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk,” she said.
“Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the fight against breast cancer.”
Funds raised through Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fuel the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving work. They support groundbreaking breast cancer research, provide free programs and services for patients and caregivers, and help ensure people facing breast cancer have access to the care and support they need.
“Locally, these dollars help fund resources like free rides to treatment, lodging at Hope Lodge facilities, a 24/7 cancer helpline and patient navigation services that guide individuals through their cancer journey. Every dollar raised not only drives progress against breast cancer nationwide, but also directly supports the patients and families right here in our community,” Collins said.
Maureen Muir Dye has been a supporter of Making Strides and serves on the planning committee. Dye said she is excited to see the response to the new ideas and activities planned for this year’s event.
“Kayla jumped right in when we started planning for the MSABC event for this Oct. 4,” Dye said. “She got the forms and flyers we needed to get the word out there. She also offered new ideas, and it was clear she wanted our event to be special. We appreciate her ideas and help.”
Dye said the committee is offering first-time tribute yard signs as a way to honor or remember loved ones.
Signs will be displayed prominently at the event.
“After the event, you are welcome to take your sign home as a keepsake,” Dye said. “We will have a couple of fun surprises at the picture- taking area.”
Dye’s devotion and support of Making Strides began in 2009 just one year after being diagnosed with breast cancer. She has participated in every event since, determined to share her story and honor the many brave women who have walked the same path.
“My first MSABC walk took place in 2009, a year after I was diagnosed with breast cancer,” Dye said.
“The team Pink Ladies was formed, and it consisted of three women and a baby, in a stroller, and I wore blue,” she said.
“Our team has grown each year, and we’ve raised lots of money to help fund research for groundbreaking cancer treatments for less cancer and more birthdays, as well as helping local folks and much more. I’m so proud to be a ‘Pink Lady,’ and we are so thankful for all the support.”
Collins said Dye’s enthusiasm and determination are shared by every member of the planning committee. She said they have created an event that will inspire hope and make the 2025 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Western Maryland an event no one will forget.
“The day will kick off with a fun Zumba warm-up, followed by music and energy from our DJ and emcee,” Collins said.
“Participants can enjoy several photo stations throughout the venue, perfect for capturing memories with family and friends. Most importantly, we have special activities planned to honor and celebrate our survivors, who are at the heart of this event.”
For more information on 2025 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Western Maryland or to register a team, visit www.makingstrideswalk.org/westernmd.