Thousands of us will gather for the Susan G. Komen Race For the Cure in downtown Las Vegas on Saturday, May 5th.  This is the 12th year the race has been run in Our Fair City (actually, it was in Henderson for a while, but let’s just say the Greater Southern Nevada area!).

Twelve years ago, Susan Strang and Linda Aaronson took me out to lunch and told me about this great breast cancer fundraising effort they’d heard about in other cities, and wanted to bring here.  Channel 8 already had the Buddy Check Program, which promotes awareness and breast self-exams, so they wanted us to work together.

The result has been remarkable. Most Southern Nevadans don’t remember when we didn’t have a Race for the Cure.  But I do.  I also remember a time not so long ago when TV producers and viewers got very squeamish just talking about cancer on TV. Especially breast cancer!  When we first started the Buddy Check reports on Channel 8, we received a letter from a viewer who thought the program was promoting a Lesbian grope session.  The viewer thought we were suggesting that women check their friend’s breasts, not their own.  No, I am not kidding.

Every year at The Race, I meet so many people who say the event really helps them deal with breast cancer, whether it’s their own case, or that of a loved one.  And I always mist up when the survivors are honored in a special ceremony. 

If you’ve never gone to The Race for The Cure, consider checking it out this year.  Even if you don’t run or walk, come and check out the happy crowd and the informational tables under the Fremont Street Canopy. 

If you are a regular Race goer, please leave me a comment about your personal reason for attending.  Thanks and I hope to see you Saturday!! (Be kind– I’ll be half-asleep)

Categories: Medicine