The Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester (BCCR) has a special place in our hearts. Blossom (previously Companion Care of Rochester) started from founder, Al Gauvin's desire to help his sister who was diagnosed with stage-four breast cancer. Al was unable to find adequate care for his sister and decided to create his solution by forming Companion Care of Rochester in 1997 after Muriel passed away. In honor of Muriel, Blossom participates in BCCR’s annual walk and run fundraising event. This year’s BCCR walk and run event is now called the Pink and Teal Challenge to encompass gynecologic cancer as well as breast cancer.
The Pink and Teal Challenge is an integral part of the Blossom community. Here are some of our stories about our connection to this cause:
In the spring of 2020, my sweet Gran Jessie passed away. It was during the pandemic (not COVID-19 related), and on top of everything else going on in the world, her death left me crushed. She had always been my favorite and we had the best memories together; from drinking tea, to baking pies, eating lots of chocolates, doing her hair, and shopping. Many years prior, my Gran had battled breast cancer. I was young at the time, so it wasn’t something we talked about much. Since her passing, I have learned the stories of how strong she was during her battle. She had to journey to the next town over 5 days a week for 6 weeks to receive her treatments. She never once complained. After her battle she lived a healthy life for 20 more years, passing away at the age of 87. Her passing and knowing of her battle is what motivates me to participate in this walk/run each year! My sister and I have either ran or walked the event for the last 3 years and I am excited to do so again this year. It’s a great way to support a wonderful organization, support the Blossom team, get some fresh air and exercise, and most importantly have fun!
- Brooke Findlay
I don’t have anyone who I know personally that has had cancer, but I have participated in one walk. It was cold and raining, I had my husband and 3 kiddos in strollers. We did not make it the entire walk, but it made for a fun Mother’s Day!
- Emily Briggs
This is a photo of my sister and I walking the pink ribbon walk back in 2019. It was a great experience and I can't wait to do it again with my daughter this time. My grandmother was a breast cancer survivor, so every year for the last 7 years, I would donate money in honor of her name.
- Cynthia Fernandez
I will walk for my mother-in-law, Evadne Ruddock, who passed away on February 2nd, 2018. Evadne died from gynecological cancer. She was a kind, loving, and God-fearing lady who left us too soon.
- Sophia Ruddock
My good friend Lea Ann Sawyer is a breast cancer survivor. She is on the “Embrace Your Sisters” board. “Embrace Your Sisters” is an organization that provides financial support for people with breast cancer.
- Katy Robinson
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