Two Webster City women will walk 60 miles each over a three-day period in an effort to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research.
From Aug. 19 to 21, Kate Kesler Anderson and Sarah Mills Staley will take part in the Susan G. Komen Twin Cities 3-Day for the Cure, a first for both of them.
Staley decided to pursue it after her sister, Tara Mills, of Garner, was diagnosed with breast cancer on Jan. 12.
Article Photos
-Daily Freeman-Journal photo by Carrie Olson
Kate Kesler Anderson and Sarah Mills Staley, of Webster City, wil be participating in the Susan G. Komen Twin Cities 3-Day for the Cure from Aug. 19 to 21.
"She is only 37," Staley said. "It was pretty unexpected and out of the blue."
Mills started chemotherapy two weeks after getting diagnosed - for a total of 16 weeks. She then had a bilateral mastectomy on June 1, and then started 7 weeks of radiation.
"She is doing great," she added. "We are hoping her path continues in that direction in the upcoming months. Throughout all of this, she has had the most positive attitude I've ever seen anyone have. She has been a true inspiration."
Staley and Anderson have had local friends that have been affected by breast cancer.
"I will be walking for Tara, and also for Michelle Stapp, Sarah Kopriva, Kari Rabe and Susan Ahlers Leman," Anderson said. "I've made buttons with their pictures and diagnosis dates to wear at the event and remind me what I'm walking for. It's the least I can do."
Each person walking will cover approximately 20 miles a day. The participants will be staying in tents on their journey.
"We were told there is no cell phones or I-Pods allowed on the walk," Ander son said. "It's a team-like camaraderie, with music and cheering throughout. Everyone helps everyone."
The women have had to commit to a training schedule to get prepared for the event. The two have estimated that they have been walking for the program since February.
"It's a real commitment, especially when you are expected to spend 8 to 18 miles on Saturdays walking," Staley said.
They also have to raise a minimum of $2,300 each to participate.
"It's getting the word out to people about breast cancer, in general, and what we are doing with the walk," she said.
To help Anderson and Staley reach their goals by making a donation, visit www.the3day.org and go to 'Donate" on the top of the page. Choose "Search for a Participant" from the drop down menu, and then search for Kate Anderson or Sarah Staley. You can also e-mail Anderson at klkanderson@gmail.com.