CLIFTON PARK, NY (WRGB) — What began as a way to spread awareness and rally around a fellow parent facing breast cancer has grown into a community push for awareness, early detection and support for survivors in Clifton Park.
Shenendehowa dance team coach Joanna Butterfield started the Strides for Strength walkathon for cancer awareness last year after a dance mom was diagnosed.
“One of our dance moms was going through a breast cancer diagnosis and we really wanted to step it up and do something different and new as part of fundraising,” Butterfield said.
Only a few months after launching the event, Butterfield received her own diagnosis.
“I was stage one positive for cancer, so of course it was a shock and ironic after pulling together this event. But I was grateful that I caught it early,” she said.
Because of early detection and regular checkups, Butterfield is now in the clear. This year, the dance team and community walked in support of her and other cancer survivors.
For Clare Hurst, an ambassador with Real Kids Wear Pink, the cause is personal.
“My grandma got diagnosed I think in 2011, she’s in remission now and I do it for her, I do it for Joanna Butterfield. She is one of my favorite teachers, and she helped us so much with this,” Hurst said.
Others walked to honor loved ones they have lost. Shen dance team member Kya Williams said breast cancer has affected her family deeply.
“Both of my mom’s aunts had breast cancer and they did unfortunately pass away,” Williams said.
The walkathon was organized with help from Real Kids Wear Pink, which works to educate young people about cancer and the importance of regular checkups. Hurst said the organization brings together students across the Capital Region to raise money…