A Celebration of Life, Hope & Strength

On Saturday, October 7, at 10:00 am, Gift of Life will host a new, community-wide celebration in downtown Beaumont – a Julie Richardson Procter Walk of Survivorship – in loving memory of Julie Richardson Procter.

This special event is scheduled in lieu of the planned Julie Richardson Procter 5K Ribbon Run, which has been rescheduled to October 6, 2018, due to Hurricane Harvey.

“The Ribbon Run has become a regional tradition of cancer awareness and survivorship,” said Executive Director Norma Sampson. “We invite you to put on your Hurricane Herculean sneakers and wear whatever you would like – pink n’ teal t-shirts or costumes. It’s a family affair – pets, wagons and strollers welcome. Together, we will rebuild and recover as we confront and overcome challenges, whether from cancer or the hurricane.”

Regina Rogers, Gift of Life Founder and Chair, added, “Recognizing Southeast Texas Strong and the indomitable spirit of our region, and with the continuing support of our devoted sponsors who are steadfast in endorsing our efforts, we are hosting an event that also reflects our passion in fighting breast and ovarian cancer. With grateful hearts, we hope that everyone throughout Southeast Texas will join with us to celebrate life, hope and survival.”

Generously supported by Presenting Sponsor Diane & Don Shaver and Title Sponsors H-E-B and Jason’s Deli, the Walk of Survivorship will kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a short, fun walk in Downtown Beaumont led by New York Times bestselling author Jill Conner Browne, THE Sweet Potato Queen, who will share brief, inspirational remarks spotlighting survivors and local first responders.

A Celebration Ceremony, with sponsorship by Mandie & Dr. Garrett Peel / Previty Clinic, will feature special guest, renowned vocalist Yvonne Washington, ending with a meaningful survivor balloon release. The occasion will also provide an opportunity for the Gift of Life to recognize 15 Angels Among Us honorees –exceptional ambassadors for the organization and voices of compassion and support for women and cancer survivors.

2017 Angels are: Doreen Borel; Cile Childress; Sandra Clark; Rita Davis; Linda Domino; Norma Forey; Pat Klein; Charlotte Mains; Dianne Marks; Pat McKee; Nell Morris; Melody Parsons; Zelma Reid; Judith Smith; and Jo Vance.

Walk participants are asked to make a $30 donation/registration to benefit Gift of Life’s lifesaving breast health services and educational outreach. Breast, ovarian and other gynecological cancer survivors will enjoy complimentary admittance.

When you walk with us, participants might walk away with a $1,000 Howell Furniture gift certificate, generously donated to help rebuild our lives and our communities. The drawing will take place during the Celebration Ceremony at 11:15 AM and you must be present to win!

Gift of Life encourages community engagement through cheering stations, musical groups, wellness information, walk route entertainment and support. Please call Gift of Life at 409-833-3663 to make arrangements.

All proceeds from the event and the month-long regional campaign will benefit Gift of Life’s lifesaving programs that extend throughout a seven-county service area in Southeast Texas and provide vital healthcare and education for thousands of medically underserved Southeast Texas clients each year.

“Serving Southeast Texans for 23 years, Gift of Life ensures clients across Southeast Texas receive crucial health screenings and medical care, regardless of their ability to pay,” Sampson said. “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. We are deeply grateful to the many sponsors who help fund our efforts and the volunteers, medical partners and community groups who are instrumental in our success.”

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