FORT SMITH (KFSM)- The 23rd annual Survivors' Challenge kicked off Saturday (Oct. 18) at 8 a.m. at the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House. Organizers say more than 1,100 people participated.
“It’s a 10-K, a 5-K race timed, and a 5-K untimed and a 1-K Celebration in honor of and in memory of people who are survivors of cancer,” Susan Steffens said.
5NEWS Anchor Daren Bobb co-emceed the event with KMAG’s Maverick and Patricia Brown.
“Truly, I’m just a volunteer that loves the Cancer Support House,” Brown said. “It does great things for people like me that are fighting cancer. Everything from the minute you find out you have cancer, it’s like what’s next? Come here, and they help you navigate through the process, and there’s lots of support groups.”
Doctors first diagnosed Brown with cancer in 2005, but it came back in 2012. She said her faith and maintaining a positive attitude keeps her strong.
“If you lose your hair like I have, you can get a wig, or get a henna tattoo and fight it your own way,” she said, revealing a henna tattoo on her head.
The Cancer Support House distinguishes itself as a place for people of all ages, fighting any type of illness, to turn to in times of need.
“We serve every cancer and not just cancer. Some of our patients have other unique diseases that are not just cancer, but everyone can come to the Cancer Support House for Hope and help,” Steffens said.
Proceeds raised go to support the programs and services offered at the non-profit organization. Organizers say this year was one of their largest turnouts yet.