Striding toward a cure | St. Lucie County

PORT ST. LUCIE — On Saturday morning, Oct. 25, residents gathered not only to show support, but as a community in light of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The IRSC Pruitt Campus had never looked more pink and colorful, with participants, banners, and decorations celebrating survivors and spreading awareness across the grounds.

Thousands of students, faculty, staff, families, and community members joined the walk, many wearing pink in solidarity with survivors and those currently battling the disease.

Music, cheers, and the sight of people of all ages coming together created an atmosphere full of hope and determination, making it clear that this was more than just a walk, but a celebration of strength, resilience, and community support that was felt from every individual.

“The two most important things that happened here today: we raise awareness and we raise funds,” said Theresa Woodson, Senior Community Development Manager with the American Cancer Society. She explained that while October highlights breast cancer awareness, the need for vigilance continues year-round.

Funds raised support critical research, patient navigation services, and accommodations for those traveling for treatment, helping provide hope and resources for people affected by the disease.

The walk was made possible through the efforts of local sponsors and volunteers.

Support came from community partners, including Hoskins Turco Lloyd & Lloyd, VNA, Car Riggs, Seacoast Bank, and the Walmart Distribution Center, along with dozens of volunteers who spent months preparing for the event.

Shelley Thomas, the event lead, helped coordinate setup, banners, and logistics to ensure the day ran smoothly. Survivors and family members shared in the celebration, offering inspiration to those newly diagnosed.

Miesha Adams, a participant attending with her church, River of Life Fellowship, said she was there to support survivors, including her mother. “There’s cancer all around, and many people are impacted, so I just feel great to be able to support the organization and the cause,” Adams said.

Loretta Graybush, a 12-year breast cancer survivor, said participating in the walk was deeply meaningful.

“Every time you go for your mammogram, you don’t know what the results will be,” Graybush said. “I’m here to support other people fighting breast cancer, those who survived, and those who didn’t. For anyone going through this, lean on your family and friends, they keep you positive and help you through the tough times.”

Gail Moore, a member of the Making Strides leadership team for the past three years, said this year’s event drew its biggest crowd yet.

“This is by far the best turnout and the best event, we’ve had over 5,000 people come out here today,” Moore said. “Every year we bring more awareness, but unfortunately, there are new diagnoses every day.

Even though we’re coming to the end of October, it’s not the end of breast cancer. We’re going to keep moving forward and keep trying to help make a change. And yes, you can absolutely wear pink all year long.”

The walk, hosted by the American Cancer Society, brought one of the largest turnouts the Treasure Coast has seen, serving as a reminder that while Breast Cancer Awareness Month may end, the fight against cancer continues year-round.

“And truly, we need to keep the awareness going year-round.” Said Woodson. “And raising funds is important for research. It is important for supporting patients, we now have multiple tools online and apps that cancer patients can use for navigation and support.”

The American Cancer Society continues to grow not only in support but in resources as well, offering Hope lodges where patients can stay if they’re traveling a long distance for treatment.

For more information, visit www.cancer.org.

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