Public Employee Press

300 DC 37 members battle breast cancer

Breast cancer affects all of us," says Regina Glover. Standing outside the DC 37 tent at the "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer" walkathon, the Local 1549 member cited the theme that brings breast cancer supporters and survivors out each year.

Early Sunday morning, Oct. 22, 300 DC 37 members were among the 20,000 people who joined in the 5-mile Central Park walkathon sponsored by the American Cancer Society in its campaign for breast cancer awareness and prevention.

School Crossing Guard Sallie Robertson has survived both breast and ovarian cancer. This year she raised $1,075 in pledges. Every year, the Local 372 member tries to outdo her prior fundraising record. "It means a lot," she says. "When I was going through it, the Cancer Society helped me out. They made sure I had the carfare to go to my chemotherapy every day. I'm here to support others and to let them know that we can make strides—we can do it together."

DC 37 Executive Director Lillian Roberts walked in memory of her friend, Ann Woodson, who died last year. "I'm here to honor her today," said Ms. Roberts. "It's important for all of us to have sensitivity to those who fall victim to this ugly disease."

Local 1549 member Faith Champy's mother died of breast cancer when she was 15 years old. "God blessed me to walk for her," said the young woman. Local 371 member Aurea Mangual said: "I've had friends who've died of breast cancer, but today I'm walking for Jackie Catala, who is a breast cancer survivor."

Gloria Acevedo, president of the United Federation of Nurses Local 436, stressed the critical importance of prevention: "As a nurse, I am very aware of how important this is for women—especially minority women. Black and Hispanic women wait to get care, but the sooner you get to it, the better the rate of survival."

Stephanie Tolbert, Clerical Vice President of New York Public Library Guild Local 1930, is keenly aware of this fact. October 2002 marked her ninth anniversary as a survivor. "Early detection is the key. That's my mantra."

The event raised over $1.9 million. Michelle Keller, Chair of the DC 37 Health and Nutrition Committee, hailed the contributions of the DC 37 participants: "You offered your money and your support, saluting our survivors and taking time out to remember those for whom the cure remains their symbol of hope. "

—Jane LaTour