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Breast Cancer 3-Day 60-mile walk begins

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By NATALIE SHEPHERD

nshepherd@wfla.com

Published: October 31, 2009

There will be plenty of pink this weekend in Pinellas County.

More than 1,500 people are walking to raise money in the fight against breast cancer. The Breast Cancer 3-Day kicked off Friday morning in Clearwater. Participants will cover 60 miles during the three-day walk to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Most walkers have a personal reason for taking part. Erin Lazenby of Lakeland lost her mother to breast cancer just a month ago.

"It's great, it's inspiring, I knew it would be hard for me to be here this weekend because of it being so close, but to see everyone working together, it helps," she said.
Lazenby is part of the seven-member team, "Fill Our Jugs." It's made up of her friends, and sisters-in-law. She said she considered not taking part, but said she's glad to be walking.

"Briefly, a couple people said maybe you shouldn't do it, but I knew we have to press on and keep walking," said Lazenby.

The hot weather slowed walkers down. But supporters helped by handing out water along the way.

Stuart Burns dressed up in pink tights and a black leotard to make walkers smile.

"I dressed up like a fool and I cheer everybody on," said Burns.

He is supporting the members of the team, "60 Mile Sisterhood," who have finished the walk eight times.

"I think it's the camaraderie of the community coming out and cheering everybody on, it's a good cause," said Burns.

The Bay area walk is one of 15 held across the country. Each event raises big money in the fight against breast cancer.

"Susan G. Komen will raise hundreds of thousands of dollars just in this city," said spokesperson Sandy Villetti.

Erin Lazenby feels it's a fitting tribute to her mom, and she is also walking with her own daughter in mind, hoping the money does help find a cure.

"There isn't anybody you meet that doesn't have an aunt, or a sister, or a mom or somebody who's been affected," she said.

Walkers will cover 20 miles each day. The walk ends Sunday afternoon at 4:30 p.m., with a closing ceremony at Spa Beach Park in St. Petersburg.

News Channel 8 reporter Natalie Shepherd can be reached at (813) 225-2703.

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