For eight years, a local race has been encouraging women affected by cancer with something very important—Bee Brave!
On October 8, 2016, the Bee Brave 5K once again invites runners and walkers from all over West Michigan for a morning of exercise and an opportunity to positively affect those affected by breast cancer. Race director Pat Ringnalda has been involved from the start and has watched the 5K evolve.
"The Bee Brave 5K is not only a race: It has come to represent the journey women undergo when diagnosed with breast cancer and the importance of providing support for everyone affected by the disease," said Ringnalda. "The event's growth over the years has given friends, family members and other supporters who sign up for race day a chance to connect in powerful ways by forming a sense of community that is unshakable—this has truly been inspirational to watch."
This year's Bee Brave 5K supports breast cancer research at Van Andel Institute (VAI). The partnership with VAI is unique in that 100 percent of the proceeds from the race go directly to the research labs at the Institute to support scientific discoveries.
"I don't want anyone affected by this disease to ever think they are alone or helpless," said Ringnalda. "In fact, supporting research is a tangible way that people can make a significant difference in the fight against breast cancer."
Race day is also a celebration and will include music, door prizes and an award ceremony. Following the 5K, women who have recently been diagnosed will introduce themselves, and breast cancer survivor Tammy Myers will give a brief talk about the physical, mental and emotional effects of the disease.
For more information and to register for the Bee Brave 5K, visit www.beebrave.com.
