As an avid runner, Michelle Ward has participated in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure many times over the years.
This year, she’ll join wearing a survivor shirt.
A UTMC nurse, Michelle Ward was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer in May, and is wrapping up radiation therapy at the hospital after having her tumor surgically removed.
Ward, a perioperative nurse at The University of Toledo Medical Center, was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer in May.
“I did Komen before because it was a fun race and a high-energy environment. It’s totally different now. It’s personal,” she said. “I wanted to do the walk this year to support everyone else who’s going through the same thing and help fund important research.”
Ward is encouraging other members of The University of Toledo community to join her at this year’s Komen Northwest Ohio Race for the Cure on Sunday, Sept. 25, in downtown Toledo.
Faculty, staff, students and alumni can donate to the cause or sign up for UToledo’s Rocket to a Cure team by visiting the Susan G. Komen website.
Registration is $35 for adults and $20 for those younger than the age of 18. Participants can choose to do a 1-mile walk or 5K run.
One out of every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, and more than 43,000 women die from the disease every year.
Ward, who is wrapping up radiation therapy at UTMC after having her tumor surgically removed, has a good prognosis — in large part because of when the cancer was found.
“Luckily, I caught it early and I have the best-case scenario,” she said. “That’s why it’s so important to get checked every year. Don’t procrastinate.”
Ward said she hopes to see a strong turnout from the UToledo community on Sept. 25.
“Staying active keeps you young and keeps you healthy,” she said. “I’m encouraging people to come out for the exercise, for a fun morning with co-workers and friends, and to contribute to a really good cause.”
Founded in 1982, Komen is one of the world’s largest cancer charities, having donated more than $3.3 billion to fund research, community-based health programs, education and advocacy programs.
