SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - A tradition that has spanned nearly three decades continues this weekend in Sioux Falls.
The Avera Race Against Breast Cancer marks its 29th anniversary this Saturday, and for participants in the event they hope it serves as a reminder of the importance of early diagnosis and screenings for the disease.
"When I was diagnosed, I had skipped a year. We had four children at the time, money was a little tight. I went in, and was diagnosed with breast cancer." Survivor Mary Lais told KELO Radio's It's Your Business with Bill Zortman.
The race also honors survivors of breast cancer with pink race shirts. Survivors of other types of cancer receive purple shirts. Before the first gun sounds a group photo of survivors and tribute song are played.
Funds raised by the race stay local, benefiting one of eight different programs at Avera ranging from diagnosis programs to support groups and the Avera wig salon, which allows women going through cancer treatments
Registration for the race remains open right up until Saturday morning. Packet pickup for those that have registered begins on Thursday afternoon
Registrations and donations are accepted online at averaracesiouxfalls.org.