Since 2016, the Johnstown Walk of Hope has brought cancer survivors, supporters, and current patients together from Cambria and Somerset counties.
Organizers say the event encourages all visitors to walk in support of those affected by cancer and raises money to help patients struggling with bills like gas and groceries.
“This event really is also about celebrating life and those who have lived. Currently with our registration for survivors, we have over 400 years of survivorship at this time. So, it’s good for new cancer patients to see others who have survived the disease,” says cancer support group Sole Survivors leader Carol Harding.
Hundreds of participants were seen walking through Trojan Stadium in Johnstown Saturday in support of patients, survivors, and those who died from cancer.
Harding says, “We ask them if they want to make a donation to the walk of hope, we appreciate it, because that money again goes to help survivors in the community. Anyone who’s dealing with a catastrophic illness always has bills, and so we are able to help them.”
Last year, officials say the Walk of Hope raised nearly 100 thousand dollars for local cancer patients. They say they typically help around 250 patients every year.
“When you are a survivor of cancer, one of the things you remember is those who helped you, and you want to help others...We’re just very thankful for all of the support that we get from all of those who have been touched with the disease,” says Harding.
You can visit the Johnstown Walk of Hope website to learn more and make a donation.
ncG1vNJzZmivmpawtcKNnKamZ56axLR7y6iamqRfn7yputKtprCmXayurbeMqJ1moJ%2Blsm7BzaKrnqtdncKvsNGem6xlpKR6tMHPqaarrF2Yrq%2BvxKtkrK2iq7a3u9GsZJqmlGK9osDInqWtqw%3D%3D