Central Minnesota Makes Strides Against Breast Cancer [VIDEO]

ST. CLOUD -- The sixth annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk was held at Halenbeck Hall this morning.

Over a thousand people from all over Central Minnesota came out for the event to show their support.

Participants in the walk had the choice of completing either a one- or three-mile walk which took them along the river and up through campus.

Dee Rengel is a chairperson for Making Strides of Central Minnesota and she says the event holds a special significance to her.

"Being a survivor myself, it kind of chokes you up when you see all the people coming and they're happy that they're here," Rengel says.

"When [I was diagnosed] with cancer, I had no grandchildren," Rengel says.

"And [now] four of my grandchildren are here today, so for me - that's great."

Amanda Pilger of the American Cancer Society says she enjoys seeing the showings of support from the community.

"[I appreciate] seeing all of the great pink outfits and costumes and seeing everyone get so creative and excited and energized to be here this morning," Pilger says.

In its six years in St. Cloud, the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk has grown from 32 in its initial year to over 1,000 this year.

The event certainly shows the community's support but it also serves as an inspiration to everyone who attends.

"We took a count at the survivors' tent and [we have] 400 years of survivors are here today," Rengel says.