Most people have heard of the Komen Race for the Cure events, but what some may not know is how significant the Susan G. Komen organization’s impact has been on people across the world.

This year, the Susan G. Komen Des Moines, Iowa organization has joined forces with the Southeast Iowa organization for the event. Through this partnership, both organizations are proud to announce the Race for the Cure will be back in Ottumwa on May 9 at the Greater Ottumwa Park. The race will include a one-mile walk, the 5-K race/walk, the kids’ fun run and the survivor recognition at the end of all races.

According to the Susan G. Komen website, their nonprofit organization has “funded more than $800 million in research, more than $1.7 billion in screening, education, treatment and psychosocial support, and served millions over 30 countries worldwide.”

Gayla Harrison, Ottumwa Race co-chair and breast cancer survivor, describes the organization’s goals for the upcoming event.

“We want to raise awareness of breast cancer and encourage everyone to be familiar with their bodies, do regular breast exams and see a doctor if you notice something is not normal,” Harrison said. “We would love to have around 2,500 [people] participate in the race.”

This year, the Iowa organizations encourage participants to fundraise above and beyond their entry fees. Teams will be able to track their progress online and earn the chance to win prizes — adding to the friendly competition.

Kristen Howe, senior in marketing, is one of many who have been affected by the reality of a loved one diagnosed with breast cancer.

“I was in eighth grade when my best friend told me her mom had breast cancer,” Howe said. “No one ever really thinks anything like that could happen to them, so when it does it makes you realize how important it is to live each day to the fullest and spend it with the people you love.”

With organizations like Susan G. Komen, more and more people are able to obtain access to treatment and support teams to help them fight this fatal disease.

“Race for the Cure can bring a support system to people affected by cancer,” Howe said. “But it can also help give people important health information that may end up saving a life.

One of Harrison’s favorite parts of her job is getting to see the faces of the survivors the day of the race.

“It’s a great celebration for them,” Harrison said. “Knowing, at least in part, what many of them have gone through, it is a great reminder of the progress that we have made in fighting the disease and of the need for ongoing research to eliminate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease.”

To register, visit http://iowa.info-komen.org/site/TR?fr_id=5417&pg=entry. For more information regarding the disease, visit http://ww5.komen.org/.