Best Walks, Runs and Marathons that Benefit Breast Cancer Fundraising

In light of October being Breast Cancer Awareness month, you may be inspired to get involved in the fight for a cure. Even if you don’t know someone who has been directly impacted by the disease (which is unlikely as 1 in 8 American women get diagnosed with breast cancer), any and all fundraising can help. While there are a number of different ways you can raise money for breast cancer research, some of the most popular are walks and runs. There are a number of marathons dedicated solely to women, but here is a list of the best walks, runs and marathons that help raise money specifically to find a cure for breast cancer.

Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk for the Cure- Susan G. Komen is one of, if not the, most popular organization working to combat breast cancer in the United States. As the go-to resource for anything related to breast health and breast cancer, the Susan G. Komen Foundation has a number of walks and runs to raise money for a cure; the most popular being the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk for the Cure. You don’t have to be an avid athlete to participate in this 3-day, 60 mile walk; but you will certainly get all of the support you need to complete it from training schedules to nutrition advice. Held in over 14 cities across the U.S., this event has raised more than $600 million for breast cancer since it started in 2003!

Run for the Cure- Another one of the best ways to participate in fundraising for breast cancer research, awareness and support, is to be part of a Run for the Cure team. If you prefer running to walking, and still want to be able to complete a race for the largest breast cancer organization, Susan G. Komen, you can run your marathon or half-marathon dedicated to the group. Many races, including the Marine Corps Marathon, Kona Marathon and Half-Marathon, and even the Chicago Marathon have “For the Cure” fundraising options. After deciding your race, you can participate and pledge an amount of money to raise to run to help cure breast cancer

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk- This walk for breast cancer is held in a number of cities across the country and can most likely be found near you. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer if a community organization that raises money for the American Cancer Society to benefit breast cancer survivors, and raise awareness about the steps to take to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer. Everyone involved in the walk works together with a passion and purpose, to get closer to finding a cure for cancer. If you wish to get involved you can visit Cancer.org to find a local Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk near you.

26.2 with Donna- Finish Breast Cancer- This national marathon to finish breast cancer is held in February in Jacksonville Beach, Florida each year. The 26.2 with Donna mission is to devotedly produce excellent events that raise funds for ground breaking research to find a cure for breast cancer, as well as help empower women living with the disease. 100% of the proceeds from the Finish Breast Cancer Marathon are donated to breast cancer research and care. The 6th annual 26.2 with Donna will take place on February 17, 2013, and you can visit breastcancermarathon.com to register and donate.

Denver’s Tri for the Cure – Ambitious and dedicated fundraising participants can take part in Denver’s mini-triathlon that raises money for breast cancer support through Denver’s Susan G. Komen affiliate. Held in the heart of the city during the month of August, this race welcomes about 3,500 participants each year, and is said to be completed by athletes of all abilities. Consisting of a half-mile swim, 11.4 mile bike ride, and 3.1 mile run, finishing the race no matter what your time is an amazing feat for a great cause.

Besides runs and races, there are endless ways to lend a hand in raising money to combat this deadly disease. From bowling, to spinning to skiing, there is always a way to dedicate your efforts and accomplishments to a good cause like breast cancer research.