Since its inception in 2018, the Gleaux for the Girls event has become a cornerstone of community support and awareness for breast cancer in Central Louisiana. This annual event, organized by the CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Foundation in collaboration with the Walker and Searcy families of Walker Automotive, has raised a remarkable $462,000 over the past six years. This year, the event is poised to surpass the half-million-dollar mark, a testament to the community’s unwavering commitment to supporting local breast cancer patients.

A Legacy of Support and Innovation

The funds raised through Gleaux for the Girls have been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital’s Cancer Center and Breast Health Center. These contributions have enabled the purchase of cutting-edge medical equipment and resources that significantly improve patient care and outcomes.

• Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT): One of the most notable acquisitions is the Varian Triology Linear Accelerator, equipped with a unique Brain Lab 6-dimensional couch. This advanced technology allows for precise radiation therapy treatments for small, localized tumors, particularly in the lungs and liver. Previously, patients had to travel to Lafayette or Shreveport for such treatments, but now they can receive this critical care locally.
• Centrifuge for Oncology Research: The event has also funded the purchase of a centrifuge, essential for conducting blood tests on cancer research patients. This equipment plays a crucial role in advancing oncology research and improving diagnostic capabilities.
• Educational Materials for Newly Diagnosed Patients: Providing comprehensive educational materials helps newly diagnosed patients understand their condition and treatment options, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care.
• 3DHD Mammography Machines: Upgrading and adding new 3DHD mammography machines has drastically reduced wait times for mammograms and enhanced diagnostic accuracy, ensuring that patients receive timely and precise diagnoses.
• Lymphedema Therapy and New Breast Boards: These additions have improved the quality of life for breast cancer patients by providing essential support and treatment options.

The Event: A Night of Hope and Celebration

The seventh annual Gleaux for the Girls run is set to take place on Saturday, October 12th, and it promises to be the largest event yet, with over 1,500 participants expected. The festivities will kick off at 6:00pm at Walker Toyota and will feature a variety of activities designed to engage and entertain the community while raising funds for a vital cause.

• Glow-in-the-Dark 1-Mile Fun Run: Participants will enjoy a night-time run down John Eskew Drive, illuminated by glowing decorations and lined with cheer and dance groups from local high schools. This vibrant atmosphere encourages community spirit and support for the runners.
• Raffles and Prizes: This year’s event includes a raffle for a 2015 Pink Toyota Tacoma, donated by Walker Toyota, and a brand-new, pink ribbon-wrapped Alpha Club Car Precedent golf cart, donated by Cenla Moto-Sport. Raffle tickets are $15.00 each and can be purchased on the event website. The drawing will take place at 8:00pm on race day, and participants do not need to be present to win.
• Food Trucks and Vendors: Attendees can indulge in treats from a variety of food trucks and vendors, including Red River Bank Ice Cream Truck, Great American Cookie Co., Debbie’s Meat Pies, Cheat Day, Super One Foods Fruit Stand, Jack’s Drinks, and more.
• Kid and Pet Activities: The event is family-friendly, with activities for children, such as a library truck, emergency vehicles, yard games, and a tattoo station. Pets are also welcome, with free pink bandanas and pink dog treats available to all four-legged friends.
• Survivor Celebrations: Cancer Survivors’ $15.00 registration includes an exclusive pink survivor t-shirt, goody bag, and access to a VIP Survivor Happy Hour from 6:00pm to 7:00pm, complete with free food and drinks and a special survivor photo booth. Survivors also lead off the one-mile fun run with a special Survivor Second Line and a confetti kick off.

The Impact: Stories of Courage and Community

The success of Gleaux for the Girls is not just measured in dollars raised, but in the lives it has touched. The event has become a beacon of hope for many in the community, providing essential support and resources for those battling breast cancer.

Alexandria native Monza Williams was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011 and has since become a major advocate for the CHRISTUS Cabrini Cancer Center. “My grandmother passed away from breast cancer and as a result of that, I’ve been getting routine mammograms since I was 19,” Williams shared. “The day I found out I had cancer was on my oldest daughter’s birthday, January 4, 2011, a day I’ll never forget.”

Williams’ cancer was aggressive, requiring the removal of lymph nodes and chemotherapy. She underwent four lumpectomies before deciding on a partial mastectomy. Despite the challenges, Williams found solace and support at the Cabrini Cancer Center. “When I walked in there for treatment, I never felt like a number. I always felt like they knew me and that they were looking forward to helping me through my journey,” she said. “I made the right decision to stay local and I received the same type of treatment here locally that I would have gotten elsewhere.”

Throughout her journey, Williams joined the Cabrini Pink Ribbon cancer support group, which connected her with other women facing similar battles. “Throughout my journey, I realized how blessed I was and still am,” she said. Williams is also deeply involved with the annual Gleaux for the Girls run, where she registers participants in the survivor area. “That’s my way of giving back to survivors and their support systems,” she said. “That’s a night where they all get together and fellowship with one another and I like seeing that camaraderie among them.”

Gleaux for the Girls has become a personal event for Sissy Ross, a sales trainer with Walker Toyota Automotive. She was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. She said, “I’m a firm believer in getting your mammograms done every year and, thankfully, that saved me. Early detection via mammograms is key.” Sissy noted, “I know the funds raised from this event go towards purchasing equipment and that equipment saved my life.”

In 2020, Glenda Smith was diagnosed with breast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. With no symptoms or family history, it came as a complete shock, and times became tougher in an already tough climate. But with support from CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Cancer Center, she underwent a lumpectomy procedure to remove the cancerous tumor and 19 radiation treatments. Her doctor stayed by her side, offering comfort and support until she received the care she needed. Now in remission, Glenda is back in her community, inspired by the care she received. Today, she encourages others to hold steadfast to faith. “God has a different plan than we have, but he never abandons you.”

The Impact of Community Support

The stories of survivors like Monza, Sissy, and Glenda highlight the profound impact that community support and advanced medical resources can have on individuals battling breast cancer. The funds raised through Gleaux for the Girls have not only provided cutting-edge equipment but also fostered a supportive environment where survivors can share their experiences and find strength in each other.

Ashley Walker, the executive director of the CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Foundation, regularly emphasizes the importance of these stories: “We have met so many incredible people through this event who have been directly affected,” she said. “Their stories of bravery and determination are what continue to fuel us to grow this event into something that they are not only proud of, but that will continue to promote early action. It’s our way of honoring those fighting and those lost.”

Looking Ahead: A Future of Hope and Progress

As Gleaux for the Girls prepares for its seventh annual run, the community’s support remains as strong as ever. The event has grown from its humble beginnings in 2018, when it welcomed 500 participants and raised $35,000, to becoming the largest breast cancer awareness event in the area. Last year alone, the event raised over $105,000 and welcomed over 1,500 participants.

Even the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic did not deter the event’s momentum. In 2020, the event adapted to a virtual format, allowing participants to run in their own neighborhoods while still raising awareness and funds for the cause. The continued success of Gleaux for the Girls is a testament to the community’s dedication to supporting local breast cancer patients. With each passing year, the event not only raises crucial funds, but also fosters a sense of unity and purpose among participants and supporters.

Join the Movement: How You Can Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved with Gleaux for the Girls and support the fight against breast cancer:

• Register for the Run: Sign up for the 1-Mile Fun Run and join the community in raising awareness and funds for breast cancer patients. Registration fees are $30 for regular runners and $15 for survivors and children.
• Purchase Raffle Tickets: Buy raffle tickets for $15 each for a chance to win a pink 2015 Toyota Tacoma, courtesy of Walker Toyota, or a pink ribbon-wrapped Alpha Club Car Precedent golf cart presented by Cenla Moto-Sport. All proceeds support local breast cancer patients.
• Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to help organize and run the event. Volunteers are essential to the success of Gleaux for the Girls.
• Donate: Make a direct donation to the CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Foundation to support their ongoing efforts.

For more information about the race and to learn how you can get involved, please visit christuscabrinifoundation.org/gleaux.