City of Modesto Embraces Breakaway from Cancer during Stage 4
of the Amgen Tour of California
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The Breakaway Mile Similar to the support team that helps cyclists break away from the pack, it takes a strong support network to help a person break away from cancer. Celebrating cancer survivors everywhere, the Breakaway Mile takes place during the Amgen Tour of California, before the professional riders roll across the finish. It’s a special walk that crosses the finish line to honor the millions of cancer survivors worldwide, led by an individual who has been an inspiration within the local cancer community – the Breakaway from Cancer® Champion. The Breakaway Mile celebrates cancer survivors and their support networks and helps increase awareness of the important resources available to people affected by cancer. The event also celebrates the many scientific innovations that contribute to new treatments for cancer patients. During the Breakaway Mile, the Breakaway from Cancer Champion and an Amgen scientist who plays a crucial role in developing breakthrough medicines, are joined by community members – cancer survivors, patients, caregivers, and advocates – who support the fight against cancer. Read more about the Breakaway Miles in Bakersfield, Santa Cruz, and Thousand Oaks. |
During the opening reception of the Breakaway Mile at the Gallo Center in Modesto, Breakaway from Cancer® Champion Sandy Howard spoke about her passion for helping those touched by cancer. She has described her struggles and triumphs in what turned into a self-published book titled “Life After Chemo.” The book now serves as a useful tool for many women struggling with similar situations in the San Joaquin Valley and around the world. Sandy tirelessly makes herself available to anyone who may benefit from her experiences.
Sandy and her family led the Breakaway Mile through Modesto before the professional cyclists crossed the finish line for Stage 4 of the Amgen Tour of California. They were followed by the high school marching band and color guard and more than 100 cancer survivors and supporters from the Modesto area.
Dineli Wickramasinghe, director of research at Amgen, walked with Sandy during the Mile and said that meeting cancer survivors like Sandy provide inspiration for Amgen staff members to see that the work they do truly can make a difference.
Sandy was diagnosed with breast cancer eight years ago. At that time, she was 42 years old with four children ages nine to 14, and her odds of survival were 30 percent. While the outlook was bleak, with the support of her husband, extended family, and a wide network of friends, Sandy took on the fight with faith and courage. She underwent chemotherapy first, hoping to shrink the tumor enough for surgery, which was successful. Following a lumpectomy, Sandy had radiation treatment and was on the road to survivorship.
Sandy also had the honor of presenting Amgen’s Breakaway from Cancer Most Courageous Rider jersey to Lars Boom of Team Rabobank. The jersey is awarded to the rider who best exemplifies the character of those engaged in the fight against cancer – courage, sacrifice, inspiration, determination and perseverance.
The day in Modesto also included several activities to honor cancer survivors. The Amgen Tour of California’s Lifestyle Festival included a Breakaway Village offering cancer awareness education, cycling gear, family activities, bike safety, food, and entertainment. A cancer art show featured works completed by cancer survivors and their support teams that visually communicate the impact cancer has on a life and the strength of those who have had cancer through their lives in one way or another.
To learn more about Breakaway from Cancer, visit breakawayfromcancer.com or follow the latest news on the Breakaway from Cancer Facebook page.
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