Bridgeport, CT—Two local teams raised over $50,000 for as part of the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in New York City. The walk, which took place October 10 and 11, raises money for breast cancer screening, support and treatment programs for the uninsured and underinsured, and research advancing breast cancer prevention and treatment.

A team led by Mary Jo McAvey, a member of the Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center’s President’s Council, raised $25,656. “One cannot remain unmoved over this special weekend,” McAvey said. Many of the walkers have had experiences with breast cancer as survivors and patients. “This walk was especially meaningful as I shared it with my good friend Cathy Porter who finished her last chemo treatment in early August,” McAvey says. “We laughed and we cried tears of sincere triumph at Sunday’s finish line—a true metaphor all around.”

Another local team, the Bah-le-BUST-ehs, raised $28,000. Captain Ilene Feuerberg, a five-year breast cancer survivor, led the team which included staff, patients and supporters of the Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center. The Breast Care Center’s medical director Dr. Mary Pronovost walked with her assistant Anne Marie Gaffney.

The Avon Walk is held in several cities each year. Over two days, supporters travel 39 miles to help raise funds for breast cancer. For more information, visit www.avonwalk.org.

Part of the Norma F. Pfriem Cancer Institute at Bridgeport Hospital, the Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center has served more than 18,000 women and their families since it was established in 1999. A member of the prestigious National Consortium of Breast Care Centers, the Center provides a wide range of diagnostic care and treatment at Bridgeport Hospital including medical oncology, surgical and chemotherapy services, as well as mammography and radiation therapy, genetic risk assessment and opportunity for clinical trials. The Breast Care Center office at 111 Beach Road in Fairfield provides surgical services, medical oncology, nutrition counseling, massage therapy, wig and prosthesis fitting, and other patient support activities. For more information call (203) 255-5300 or visit the Center on the web at www2.bridgeporthospital.com/cancer/breast/default.aspx.