More than 14,000 people put on their walking shoes on Sunday, in hopes of making strides against breast cancer. Attendees shared why they unite to ensure no one faces the good fight alone.

The American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk kicked off at Frontier Field. Walkers sported the color pink on the streets of downtown Rochester for a two-mile-walk. The annual event helps spread awareness, funds education, research, and treatment, as participants strive for a world without cancer. 

It is part of a national effort with the same goal going on in cities around the country.

Patients, survivors, caretakers, and supporters impacted by breast cancer walked side by side in a show of unity. New this year, the walk looped around Parcel 5, where there were signs in memory of loved ones.

MaryKaren Wheat, a coach who organized a team for the walk, says breast cancer has impacted her family and now her close friend. She decided to take the initiative for her first-ever walk this year.

“We’ve experienced it with my dad,” Wheat of Brockport said. “He was one of the small percentage of men who were diagnosed with it. Now with Kathleen, it’s just so prevalent in society today that breast cancer is hitting so many people at so many different levels. I think it’s really important we support people as often as we can. Especially if you can get a whole bunch of women together to empower each other.”

The walk held in Rochester raised $530,000 to help save lives from breast cancer and provide support for those impacted.