Here in the Midlands nearly 6,000 folks put on their walking shoes to help find a cure for Cancer. Thousands came out to Finlay Park for the 19th annual "First Ladies' Walk for Life" Saturday morning. The event was designed to offer support to survivors and to remember those who lost their battle with Breast Cancer.
More than 3,200 South Carolinians will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. That's according to the Palmetto Health Breast Center, whose goal is to educate and support Cancer patients throughout the state. On Saturday, the Palmetto Health Foundation hosted a "Walk for Life" in order to bring awareness to this deadly disease.
For Joellen Freeman, who was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in August of 2004 the walk has special meaning.
"It's just a symbol of my survivorship to be able to participate in this walk," said Joellen Freeman.
And while she says her experience hasn't always been a walk in the park, she wouldn't be where she is today without the love and support of her family.
"My kids were always there for me," said Freeman. "My son was in Nursing School and when I had to have shots at home, he was able to do that for me."
This year marks the 19th year for the "Walk of Life" and as Freeman hiked the three-mile route, she couldn't help but reflect on the love of her supporters.
"It's just really emotional for me to be together with all of them and they support me and my struggle with Breast Cancer."
As her journey continues, she has growing faith in the possibility of a cure.
"It's just amazing to know that there are so many people that survived Cancer," said Freeman. "It gives those that are diagnosed a lot of hope."
The walk highlighted Breast Cancer survivor Vera Gillie, who has survived Breast Cancer four times and is now Cancer free.
The event raised nearly $350,000.
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