Christine Keener is walking a long distance to help others.
Keener is one of 42 walkers from Clarkston who will join thousands of others at the Michigan Breast Cancer Three-Day benefiting the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the National Philanthropic Trust. The participants will walk 60 miles during three days to raise breast cancer awareness and money for critical research and community outreach programs.
‘I had such an incredible experience doing the Three-Day last year that I’m going back for more!? said Keener. ? I’m so excited about this event, even though this year I really know what I’ve gotten myself into. This event isn’t easy, but I wouldn’t be doing it if I didn’t believe 100 percent that it was worth every blister and the months of training to do it.?
In order to participate, each walker must commit to raising a minimum of $2,200. So far, Keener has raised over $2,800 and is hoping to surpass the $3,100 that she raised last year. Keener said her biggest donations come from friends and family.
This year, Keener approached The Chocolate Moose in downtown Clarkston about making chocolate ribbon suckers as a fund-raising idea. Owner Christie Kojima and Manager Gaylene Portela were more than happy to support Keener’s idea. The Chocolate Moose not only made the suckers for Keener to sell, but also have a display in the store for additional fund-raising efforts.
“The more funds and awareness we can help raise to help fight breast cancer, the closer we will get to finding a cure. We were glad to help,” said Kojima.
Opening ceremonies for the Three-Day begin at Stony Creek Metropark in Shelby Township on the morning of Aug. 11 and end with closing ceremonies on Aug. 13 at Metro Beach Metropark in Harrision.
If the 42 walkers from Clarkston participating in the walk only meet their minimum goal of $2,200 they will raise at least $92,000 combined.
For information about The Michigan Breast Cancer 3-Day, visit www.the3day.org.