News Summary
Ruth Brajevich, a breast cancer survivor, participated in the Susan G. Komen More Than Pink Walk, inspiring nearly 10,000 attendees while raising funds for cancer research. Having battled breast cancer since her diagnosis at 42, she emphasizes community support in overcoming challenges. The event highlighted resilience and unity among survivors, with participants honoring loved ones lost to cancer and celebrating their journeys together.
Newport Beach – Ruth Brajevich, a dedicated runner and breast cancer survivor, continues to inspire her community as she takes part in the Susan G. Komen More Than Pink Walk. The recent event drew nearly 10,000 participants and raised close to $750,000 to support cancer research, awareness, and advocacy.
Brajevich, a resident of Dove Canyon, has participated in the More Than Pink Walk for about 20 years, finding motivation in the stories of many breast cancer survivors. This year’s walk was a significant occasion for her, especially after her personal battle with breast cancer began shortly after running the 2011 Malibu Marathon. Following her marathon, further testing based on her mammogram results led to her diagnosis at the age of 42. At that time, she was in good health and the mother of two young children aged 8 and 10. The shocking news prompted a determination within her to focus on her family and her recovery.
The overwhelming moment of her diagnosis made it clear that she wanted to fight for her life and be present for her children. Through her journey, she has felt immensely grateful for the supportive network of family and friends surrounding her. Despite the loneliness often associated with cancer treatment, Brajevich stresses the sense of community felt during events like the More Than Pink Walk.
This year’s More Than Pink Walk also featured survivors such as Nanci Hill and Anita Smith from Brea, as well as Cindi Murillo from La Habra. The three women, who forged a bond during their radiation therapy ten years earlier, honored friends who have passed away from cancer by displaying their names and photos on ribbons at the event. Their collective experience highlights the importance of community support in navigating the difficult journey of cancer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 280,000 new breast cancer cases were reported across the United States in 2022, with over 42,000 deaths expected in 2023. Many participants at the More Than Pink Walk, including another survivor from Newport Beach named Kim Cameron, echoed sentiments of gratitude for their support systems. Cameron initially planned to walk alone but was pleasantly surprised when eight friends joined her, expressing that without their companionship, she might not have survived her battle with cancer.
Brajevich views her journey through cancer treatment similarly to her marathon training, emphasizing the importance of taking things one step at a time and celebrating each milestone. She believes that with community backing and advancements in medical science, cancer survivors can continue to lead meaningful lives. Her hope is to motivate others facing similar battles and to inspire ongoing support for cancer awareness and research efforts.
The More Than Pink Walk serves not only as a platform for fundraising but also as a celebration of resilience among survivors and a poignant reminder of the battle many face against breast cancer. Through shared experiences and collective support, participants like Brajevich are united in their commitment to fight cancer while uplifting one another.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Komen Organization to Host Orange County MORE THAN PINK Walk
Mother and Daughter Triumph Over Breast Cancer Together
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Orange County More Than Pink Walk
- Wikipedia: Breast cancer
- NewsChannel 5: Komen Nashville More Than Pink Walk
- Fox 6 Now: Komen Wisconsin More Than Pink Walk
- LA Times: More Than Pink Walk
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COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
