PEARL, Miss. (WLBT) – The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk was held at Trustmark Park in Pearl on Saturday.

Those who flooded these streets walked in solidarity with family and friends in hopes of finding a cure and raising funds for research.

A marching band encouraged the participants and led the way to the starting line.

“It’s a great morning to come out and support those people we love who have put up a super brave fight and we’re happy to keep them with us,” said breast cancer walker Kate Barton .

With every step, the sea of ​​pink makes strides against breast cancer and brings awareness to the dangerous disease.

“I’m doing this for my mother-in-law, Sandy Ollie. She passed away two years ago from breast cancer,” said Neil Ann Hillhouse, a participant in the breast cancer walk.

Many walked in memory of loved ones who had died.

A memorial garden filled with pink flamingos is where people came to place honor tags for those who lost their battle with cancer.

“Well, my mom passed away on February 16, 2001, from breast cancer,” Skylar Berryhill said.

Organizers say the walk is a celebration of courage and hope. They say it’s a movement that aims to unite and educate communities about breast cancer and what can be done to reduce your risk.

Funds were also raised to help the American Cancer Society fund groundbreaking research to one day find a cure.

“We have a very close friend who just survived breast cancer, so it was easy for her to do. I’ve known a lot of people who have been affected,” said Darren Barton.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, other than skin cancer.

“We know African-American women have the highest mortality rate and sometimes don’t get the care they need. So it’s important for us to be here supporting breast cancer awareness, supporting survivors and also honoring those who have lost their battle with breast cancer,” said Jorri Davis.

WLBT’s Maggie Wade was the emcee for the big event.

She had a big surprise as she was presented with the “Serving in the Community” award by one of the sponsors, Laroche Posay.

Those cheering from the sidelines hope this walk will continue to make strides to end breast cancer.

Organizers say they thank everyone who committed to the cause on Saturday.

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