6,000 make Strides Against Breast Cancer at US Bank Stadium

MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) - The home of the Vikings turned a bright shade of pink today as Making Strides Against Breast Cancer wrapped around U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.

“I'm actually out here walking for a friend who was diagnosed with breast cancer a couple of months ago. And I have a co-worker that had breast cancer about four or five years ago,” said Lisa Foxx. “So, we do it every year, just to get some exercise and make it a family thing.”

The pink ribbon got a little longer this year as the attendance number nearly doubled to 6,000.

“I think this brand new, beautiful stadium is a big part of it,” said Dave Benson of the American Cancer Society. “But, there are so many people around town that have been touched by breast cancer, and I think [they want] to be able to come out and do something fun and engaging but also know they're making a difference.”

Everyone who stepped up has a story, some celebrating survival, others in the midst of the battle, like Tasha, who is just 34 years old.

“It was unexpected and surprising when I found out,” she said. “My grandmother is a three year survivor going on four.”

In Minnesota alone, more than 3,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and more than 600 will die.

So, the mission is clear. With every stride today, inside and outside, the fight is on. 

“It's just amazing to be here and to have survived it,” said Crystal Gibson. “I'm a survivor, and I can say it loudly -- we don't die, we multiply. There are a lot of survivors out here, that's the good thing about it.”

The money raised Saturday will go toward research, programs and services for both men and women.