Rays of Hope

The 21st annual Rays of Hope – A Walk and Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer attracted 20,000 walkers to Springfield and Greenfield on Oct. 19, raising $650,000 toward breast-cancer treatment, services, and research in Western Mass. Large tents, pink balloons, music, colorful flags, and a festive, hopeful atmosphere welcomed participants to the dual-city event. Since being launched in Springfield in 1994 by Lucy Giuggio Carvalho, Rays of Hope has raised more than $12 million, with all monies remaining local and administered by the Baystate Health Foundation to assist patients and their families affected by breast cancer. Over the years, funds have supported the Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research, as well as treatment, breast-health outreach and education, and the purchase of state-of-the art equipment through the Baystate Health Breast Network, benefiting Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield, Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in Ware, and various community projects throughout the region. Pictured at center, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno; Jane Albert, vice president of Development for Baystate Health and executive director of the Baystate Health Foundation; and the mayor’s daughter, Chiara Sarno, get ready to step off. At bottom right, Dr. Grace Makari-Judson, chair of the Baystate Health Breast Network and co-director of the Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research, addresses walkers and runners.