In 2006, having recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, Sara Bryant Smith began the Breast Friends Foundation as a way to enable people to support the cause of breast cancer by participating in a shorter distance formal walk. Sara herself wanted very much to participate in a breast cancer walk, but did not have the energy or stamina for a longer walk while undergoing treatment. By creating the Breast Friends Foundation walk around Marblehead Neck — a three-mile walk — families and participants of all generations could join. Sara lost her battle with breast cancer in 2009, but her husband and mother-in-law, Adam Smith and Carol Smith, have continued the organization and walk in Sara’s name. Adam and Carol’s dedication to the cause and their honoring of Sara is inspirational.
Since 2007, the Breast Friends Foundation has donated the proceeds from their annual walks to the MGH-Chelsea HealthCare Center to support the patient navigator program. Hundreds of at-risk patients are receiving cancer screenings and appropriate follow-up care thanks to Adam and Carol.
