HCN News & Notes

Time Running Short to Register for Oct. 25 Rays of Hope Walk

SPRINGFIELD — While there is still time to register for the 22nd annual Rays of Hope – A Walk and Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer, time is running short. Participants can register online, at baystatehealth.org/raysofhope, where they can create a personal webpage to assist in fund-raising efforts.

This year’s annual walk and run, slated for Sunday, Oct. 25, are presented by Health New England. As in past years, the event begins at Temple Beth El on Dickinson Street in Springfield with a two- or five-mile route for the walk, along with an 8K run. Registration for the run begins at 7:30 a.m., while registration for the walk begins at 9 a.m. The run steps off earlier this year at 8:30 a.m., followed by the walk at 10:30 a.m.

Since 1994, Rays of Hope has raised more than $12.4 million, with all monies remaining local and administered by the Baystate Health Foundation to assist patients and their families affected by breast cancer.

Those who want to support the Rays of Hope, but are unable due to other commitments, can sign up as ‘virtual’ participant. They may choose their own method of participation — walk, run, bowl, swim, and more — anytime during the month of October to get in five miles, while raising donations similar to other Rays of Hope participants.

This year’s Rays of Hope major sponsors are Health New England, Gale Toyota, Baystate Breast & Wellness Center, Baystate Breast Specialists, Chicopee Savings Charitable Foundation, Radiology & Imaging, and Zasco Productions. A listing of all sponsors can be found on the Rays of Hope website.

For more information about this year’s Rays of Hope Walk and 8K Run, held rain or shine, call (413) 794-8001 or visit www.baystatehealth.org/raysofhope.