September 14, 2025

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Raises Funds in Detroit

News Summary

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure event in Detroit attracted over 2,100 participants and raised more than $280,000 for breast cancer awareness. The race included both a 5K run and a 1-mile walk, with participants donning pink to show their support. Notable attendees shared their personal experiences with breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of community and fundraising. The event revealed alarming statistics about breast cancer while calling for ongoing support for research and patient assistance. The next race is scheduled for 2025.

Detroit

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure took place at William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor in Detroit on Saturday, attracting a crowd of over 2,100 participants. The event successfully raised more than $280,000 towards its goal of $350,000 for breast cancer awareness and research.

More than 1,800 individuals officially registered for the race, which included both a 5K run and a 1-mile walk. Supporters, including breast cancer survivors, their families, and friends, participated by wearing pink clothing, carrying signs, and some even donned pink tutus to show their support. Fundraising efforts will continue for an additional 30 days, allowing for more contributions to be made to the cause.

Participation in the event highlighted the diversity of those affected by breast cancer, as numerous individuals shared their personal experiences. Notable participants included Vivian Turner, a 68-year-old woman who walked the 1-mile route just one day after completing her final round of chemotherapy. She was initially diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer in March 2023 and this marked her first Race for the Cure. Vickie Hall, a three-year breast cancer survivor, joined Turner and emphasized the supportive environment fostered by the event.

The event also shed light on the harsh reality of breast cancer statistics. In the U.S., it is projected that by 2025, there will be 316,950 new breast cancer diagnoses, resulting in approximately 42,170 expected deaths. In Michigan alone, the Department of Health reports around 9,200 new breast cancer cases each year, leading to approximately 1,300 deaths.

Sponsors greatly contributed to the success of the event, with Bank of America, Ford Warriors in Pink, and the McDonald Hopkins law firm collectively contributing around $24,000 to the cause. Participants were energized by an MC from WDIV-TV, Ashley Baracy, while Vince Crocl served as the hype man to keep spirits high.

Ed Siaje, president of Bank of America Detroit, addressed participants before the race commenced, further underscoring the importance of community involvement in battling breast cancer. Meanwhile, Natalie Kuerbitz, who lost her best friend to the disease, raised around $120,000 through her group, “Alissa’s Angels,” showcasing the impact of personal dedication to the cause.

The event aimed to raise awareness about the disparities in breast cancer outcomes, particularly among Black women. Gretchen Awad, the Executive Director of Susan G. Komen Detroit, highlighted the crucial need for financial support directed towards research and patient assistance. Nita Boyles, a stage 3 breast cancer survivor, emphasized the significance of self-examinations for early detection and treatment, which the CDC recognizes as vital in improving survival rates.

As the event came to a close, many participants reflected on the importance of family support in the recovery process, which plays a critical role in the emotional and physical wellness of individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. The collaborative effort of all participants and volunteers created an uplifting atmosphere filled with hope and purpose in the fight against breast cancer.

Looking ahead, the next Race for the Cure is scheduled to take place in Detroit on September 13, 2025, paving the way for further collective efforts to combat this ongoing health challenge.