Still time to sign up for Making Strides Against Cancer 5K walk at Wiregrass Mall

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and, as always, there are several local events that help raise money that goes toward the research for a cure for the disease that has killed millions and has affected virtually everyone in some way. One of the biggest of these events across the nation each year is the American Cancer Society (ACS)’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” 5K walk, which will again be held locally on Saturday, October 24, at the Shops at Wiregrass mall.

“We are thrilled to be back at the Shops at Wiregrass,” says Making Strides spokesperson Cindi Crisci. “(The mall is) a wonderful partner. Our participants love this venue.”

Roughly 800 people on over 150 teams are already on board for the Wiregrass “Strides,” and has raised more than $51,000 for the cause from both individuals and companies, including “Clerks For A Cure,” the office of Pasco County comptroller and clerk of court Paula O’Neil (who is a survivor of breast cancer herself), Walmart, Florida Cancer Affiliates and the American Health Institute.

“It’s not too late to form a team and join us,” Crisci says, adding that the event once again will feature a “sponsor row,” with entertainment provided by Finest DeeJays. Ann Kelly from WDUV-FM (105.5) will be this year’s emcee and Cantina Laredo (also located in the Shops at Wiregrass) will be hosting the annual Survivor Breakfast. Crisci says that she is pleased to announce that the law firm of Kemp, Ruge and Green is the event’s Pink Premier Presenting Sponsor.

This year, local pink-bra-wearing participants will march a 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) course that will take them from the mall out to and around Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) twice and back to the mall (there also is a 3K, or 1.8-mile course available). The Wiregrass event is just one of about 300 ‘Making Strides’ events that raise more than $60 million across the U.S. each year and last year, the event raised more than $195,000. Organizers hope to raise even more year.

To participate. visit MakingStrides.ACSevents.org and enter your zip code.