Making Strides Against Breast Cancer or MSABC is the largest network of breast cancer awareness events in the United States, bringing together more than 200 communities to finish the fight. Every breast cancer walk and event is an incredible and inspiring opportunity to honor those who have battled breast cancer, raise awareness about what we can do to reduce our breast cancer risk, and raise money to help the American Cancer Society fight the disease with research, information, services, and access to mammograms for women who need them.
History of Making Strides:
In 1984, Massachusetts cancer survivor Margery Gould Rath wanted to find a way to celebrate fellow cancer survivors by raising funds for the American Cancer Society. Working with a committee of fellow survivors and other volunteers, “Margie” created a “move-along-a-thon” called Making Strides Against Cancer to bring people together in an event to move the fight against cancer forward. The first event, held in Boston, drew 200 participants and instantly became an annual city tradition.
In 1993, the event officially became known as the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, attracting 5,000 walkers at events in Boston and in Manchester, New Hampshire who raised $660,000. Since then, Margie’s vision has inspired 15 million walkers to participate in Making Strides events in more than 200 communities across the country, raising more than $935 million to fight breast cancer and helping 3.5 million breast cancer survivors celebrate another year. Margie remained a dedicated Making Strides volunteer until she lost her battle with cancer in 2001.
The progress we’re making because of Making Strides supporters like Margie is nothing short of remarkable. But it’s no time to rest. That’s why we need your help. More walkers mean the next big breast cancer research breakthrough. More walkers mean free lodging and rides to treatment for breast cancer patients who need it. More walkers fundraising mean more survivors who will celebrate more birthdays.
Visit the official Making Strides Website for more information.