Over 3,500 people take part in Panerathon
The Panerathon 10K and 2-mile run or walk was back in person for its 12th year the community racing back together to raise funds for the fight against cancer.
The event last year was held virtually due to the pandemic.
This year 3,500 people laced up their tennis shoes and took part in the Panerathon at the Covelli Centre in Youngstown.
The walk and run is the Valley's largest community fundraising event.
Money raised is used in the fight against breast cancer to help fund the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center.
The JACBCC helps women get mammograms, and care regardless of their ability to pay.
Dr. Dee Banks has been taking part since the event began.
"My mother's a breast cancer survivor and you know I think this is a great cause for women. It's also a great day to get outside and get some exercise," said Dr. Banks.
YSU's basketball team also took part in the Panerathon. We asked one of the team members who she is walking for, Haley Thierry said, "My aunt actually had breast cancer, and she's a survivor, and that's really good.
Cancer Survivor Brenda Henderson's team from Hubbard is showing support and love with each step they take.
Henderson said, "You need all the support you can get. It warms your heart. There's nothing like it."
Others here are keeping memories alive of loved ones they forever cherish like Amy Turek.
"My daughter fought breast cancer for 11 years. She fought it very hard and she died a year and a half ago. She was one of the kindest people on earth. She was an advocate of the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center. She did everything she could to help anyone with breast cancer," Jan Nemcik.
"Amy was my daughter-in-law. We have quite a few friends and family members with us. Amy was just a special girl, everybody fell in love with Amy,"
added Lynn Turek.
In the past 12 years, the Panerathon has generated more than 3 million dollars for the Mercy Health Foundation, in support of the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center.
The funds ensure that anyone can get treatment at the JACBCC regardless of ability to pay.
