Video: ‘Hope Continues’ To Replace ‘Race For The Cure’ As Annual Event To Raise Money For Breast Cancer Research

TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – The announcement that Komen North Mississippi would have to shut its doors came as a shock to many in the area.
For years, the annual “Race for the Cure” has generated revenue for non profits and medical clinics that help with early detection of breast cancer.
However, a Tupelo man is organizing a 5 K to help make up the funds raised by the popular race.

When Adam Morris heard that “Race for the Cure ‘ had run its course, he took action.

“I started making phone calls trying to figure out what it would take to continue that effort here locally,” Morris said.

Morris is organizing a 5 K to replace ‘Race for the Cure.”  It is called “Hope Continues”  and it will raise money for breast cancer research , screening and support.  Also, 100 percent of the proceeds will stay in Northeast Mississippi.

The CREATE Foundation is handling all of the donations for “Hope Continues.”  And Morris is now meeting with potential volunteers, and others who can help get the word out.

“Race for the Cure’ became the largest running event in the state, and it raised more than $150,000 every year.  Morris , who is known for running the race in flamboyant attire, says he didn’t want those who benefit from the grant money to have to cut services.

“Breast cancer awareness is all about having that hope and we just want to continue the effort here locally and take care of our community and our neighbors,” Morris said.

As an oncology nurse navigator at NMMC, Abigail Farris is there for patients who find themselves dealing with unexpected expenses and questions.   She says “Race for the Cure” provided much needed funds that weren’t covered by patients’ insurance.  Farris is glad the grants will still be available through “Hope Continues.”

“We help patients with gas cards, if they have to drive a long way to come to their doctors’ appointment, or radiation, or chemo treatments, we have some assistance for patients with prescriptions, we have helped patients with wigs, before anyway we can be of assistance to the patients, that’s what we want to do,” Farris said.

The “Hope Continues ” 5k is set for October 28th.  It starts at Fairpark and will follow the same course as “Race for the Cure.”  Morris, who has a full time day job, is spending all of his spare time looking for sponsors, and doing all he can to help make sure that Hope Continues when it comes to breast cancer research and early detection.

For more information on “Hope Continues” or to register, go to https://racesonline.com/events/hope-continues-5k , or look up “Hope Continues 5K” on Facebook.