Quabbin Reservoir to Host Seventh Annual Walk of Champions

WARE — Sunday, May 6 marks the seventh annual Walk of Champions, and once again the Goodnough Dike area of the Quabbin Reservoir will be filled with hundreds of people walking in honor or in memory of loved ones affected by cancer, all with the determination to make a difference for those affected by the disease.

“It is an amazing day as our patients, joined by their families and friends, support each other during this very moving walk. Keeping cancer care local is important, and we are honored by the hundreds of walkers that support this important event each year,” said Lorri Tuttle, program manager of the Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital. “Because of this ongoing generosity and support, we are able to continue to offer care in a patient-centered environment, with the expertise of our medical staff from the Baystate Regional Cancer Program, here in Ware.”

The Walk of Champions offers a 5-mile or 2-mile walk among the comfortable terrain of the Goodnough Dike. Entertainment and refreshments will be offered along the route. Country Bank for Savings is the presenting sponsor of the Walk of Champions and is joined by local businesses including Heath New England, Intercity Lines, Boar’s Head Pioneer Provisions, and Quaboag Rehabilitation & Skilled Care Center in the commitment to raise funds to benefit integrated cancer services at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital.

Now is the time to form a team and become involved in the 2012 Walk of Champions and help make in difference in the lives of people undergoing cancer treatment locally. Pledge forms are available for businesses, community organizations, and community members who are participating in the walk. Online donations may be made through www.baystatehealth.org/woc. For more information about the Walk of Champions, or to find out how you can become involved, contact Michelle Graci at (413) 794-7654 or michelle.graci@baystatehealth.org.