A Work of Heart: Charlottesville Four Miler for Breast Cancer

It was all heart and hard work at the recently concluded 35^th Annual Charlottesville Women’s Four Miler against breast cancer.

A partnership between students, volunteers and athletes, this event shows how a community can make a stand against breast cancer.

Walkers and runners braved the weather to show their support for breast cancer survivors. Spectators lined the streets, cheering the runners/walkers on until the finish. Meanwhile, volunteers  set up refreshment stands, mark the race course and make sure the event is fun and safe for all. It’s astonishing how much of the event is possible through the efforts of these dedicated people.

Meanwhile, running enthusiasts from nearby communities came to Foxfield early in the morning to kick off the event. It was a great turnout this year with over 2,000 female athletes in attendance to support the University of Virginia’s Breast Cancer Program. Breast Cancer Specialists Drs. Jennifer Harvey, David Brenin and Christiana Brenin were also there to share their experiences and inspiration with advocates and survivors alike.

The UVA’s Breast Cancer Program is continuously supported by nearby communities. Volunteers host fundraisers and awareness campaigns year-round. An admirable effort, especially since breast cancer does not stop affecting the lives of women across the country.

Leading the race this year is collegiate track and field star Ann Dunn.

Dunn moved to Charlottesville two years prior and first joined the four-miler in 2016. Familiarity with the track and impressive athleticism lead to her strong first place finish at the 22:38 mark. Friend and co-athlete Jennifer Bauer finished second at 23:52. Also in the race were mother and daughter tandems – 50 to be exact. Indeed, it was a great day for women of all ages!

One of the most touching parts of the event was during the second leg of the race. The organizers wrote names of survivors on posters along the course.

After the race, breast cancer survivors took the stage to share stories and inspire those who are battling the disease. It was indeed motivating to hear these women who have managed to find life again after the diagnosis.