Special to The Leader

Be a “champion of the cause” and help heighten breast and ovarian cancer awareness with thousands of Southeast Texans as downtown Beaumont radiates in bright splashes of neon color at Gift of Life’s 6^th Annual Julie Richardson Procter 5K Ribbon Run Color Rush on Saturday, October 1 at 8:00 am.

As Southeast Texas’ largest Color Rush, this year’s event is generously supported by presenting sponsor, The Byrd Law Firm, along with title sponsors H-E-B and Jason’s Deli. It’s a remarkable experience for the entire family, with eco-friendly cornstarch color blast stations, a health-related Wellness Village, a Kiddie Fun Zone, great prizes and much more!  Join survivors, Angels Among Us, sponsors and 5K participants for the poignant Celebration Ceremony, sponsored by Previty Clinic for Surgical Care, at 10:00 am by the City of Beaumont Public Library (801 Pearl).  

The 5K Ribbon Run generates extraordinary regional camaraderie with more than 5,000 participants walking and running in support of cancer survivors, while also raising essential funds for the Gift of Life Breast and Ovarian Cancer Initiatives that help save the lives of Southeast Texas women.

 “Although I am currently facing additional healthcare challenges, I never lose my hope and inspiration,” said Gift of Life Co-Chair Sherry Paschal. “I am thankful to be involved with the Gift of Life.”

“Our prayers and love are with Sherry and her family as she joins me in encouraging everyone to support this vital local organization that truly saves lives and extends love and compassion to thousands of women and men each year,” said Gift of Life Co-Chair Christy Simon. “Help us help the Gift of Life continue its lifesaving efforts by registering for the 5K, forming a team or becoming a sponsor.”

This event perpetuates the legacy of Julie Richardson Procter, a prominent local attorney and devoted Gift of Life board member and volunteer who passed away after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Procter hoped that her illness would serve as a meaningful platform to educate women about the risks and symptoms of the disease.

All proceeds from the event benefit Gift of Life educational programming and free healthcare services, which impact thousands of Southeast Texans each year. Cancer awareness and healthy lifestyle information materials and messages will be shared at the Wellness Village and along the route.

The occasion also provides an opportunity for the Gift of Life to recognize 12 Angels Among Us Honorees, exceptional ambassadors for the organization and voices of compassion and support for women and cancer survivors:

Ania Bender; Judy Black; Joanna Clark; Robin Dauphin; Carol Fernandez; Becky Mason; Patti McSpadden; Apryl Mensah, MD; Dora Nisby; Penny Sullivan; Lola Campbell Wilber; and Karen Wortham.

Serving Southeast Texans for more than 20 years, the Julie Rogers “Gift of Life” Program offers free healthcare services and education for residents within seven Southeast Texas counties. Since inception, the organization has helped extend the lives of more than 275 individuals who have been diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer and navigated through treatment and healing.

For event information, sponsorship opportunities or to register, please call the Gift of Life at 409.833.3663 or visit event.giftoflifebmt.org.