HOLLYWOOD, Fla. — Hundreds of people filled the Hollywood Broadwalk on Saturday for the Waves of Hope 5K, an annual walk and run raising awareness about breast cancer and genetic risk.
Participants included breast cancer survivors, supporters and previvors — people who carry genetic mutations such as BRCA that increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
The event is organized by BRCAStrong, a nonprofit founded by Tracy Milgrim after her own diagnosis.
Milgrim said she learned at age 21 that she carries the BRCA2 mutation after undergoing three lumpectomies that began when she was 18.
“Just coming together to show everybody you’re not alone is what we do,” Milgrim said. “And really helping women understand — going through this journey and accepting the new normal — going through treatment, taking the genetic testing — really is the purpose of us coming.”
Among those participating was Real Housewives of Miami star Guerdy Abraira, a breast cancer survivor who is donating a portion of her book proceeds to support the organization.
“I know how it was recovering, I didn’t have the facilities and resources,” Abraira said. “So now it’s my turn to pay it forward and truly be there for those people who are in need.”
Local leaders also attended the event, including U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who shared that she, too, carries the BRCA2 mutation.
“I am also a BRCA2 mutation carrier,” Wasserman Schultz said. “I was diagnosed a month after I was diagnosed with breast cancer.”
Organizers said the walk highlights how breast cancer can affect people of all ages. Sylvia Garcia, a survivor, said she was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer at 31.
“Cancer is something that does not discriminate,” Garcia said. “It can happen to individuals of any age. So it’s important to be aware of your body. If something feels off, speak up.”
Now in its fourth year, the Waves of Hope 5K also connects participants with doctors and educational resources, emphasizing early detection and prevention.
“If we could take preventative action — and it might not be surgical,” Milgrim said. “It might be an MRI or mammogram with an ultrasound. Those are things that can save lives.”
BRCAStrong provides year-round support and resources for people at risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, including pre-mastectomy care packages and educational outreach nationwide.
Click here for more information on how you can contribute to a great cause.
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