June 27, 2008

Walking for a cure

More than 2,900 breast cancer research supporters, including dozens of MGHers, laced up their walking shoes May 17 and 18 for the 2008 Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. For the fifth year, the hospital served as the medical sponsor for the event, which provides support to a number of area organizations including the MGH — an Avon Foundation Center of Excellence. At last count, $6.9 million had been raised through this year's event, with $800,000 going toward continuing Avon Foundation-funded research studies as well as access to care programs at the Avon Center at MGH and community health centers serving women in the area.

Coming together for a cure: MGHers participate in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.

Many of the MGH staff members who volunteered for the medical crew were members of the Emergency Department, including David Brown, MD, medical director for the event; Linda Kelly, RN, the nurse team leader; and Ruth Stokes, the MGH administrator. Other volunteers represented a variety of departments such as the MGH Cancer Center, Nursing, Pharmacy and Administration.

The MGH has served as the medical team for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer since the event was established in 2003. Since its inception, the walk has helped raise millions of dollars for breast cancer prevention, research and education.