I’m not exactly sure what I expected out of the Cancer Resource Center Walkathon. Despite the heaviness of the issue that the CRC deals with, I didn’t think it would be a somber event. Still, I was surprised by just how vibrant it was.

The walkathon took place at Cass Park, a beautiful venue with a lake right alongside it. There were clowns in bright colors, people holding up paper mustaches at the photo booth, and children running around with face paint. Right in the center of the tents and booths, a woman gave a group of participants a lesson in Zumba. Dogs milled about on their leashes, noses in the air to catch the scent of pancakes, and I saw one cat cruising around in a stroller. The course for the runners and walkers was lined with live musicians, DJs, the Cornell gymnastics team, and even a Tai Chi class.

I was also surprised by the sheer number of people. Dozens of bands and organizations turned out for the event. From my place in the middle of the line of walkers, I could never see the front as it curved through the paths of Cass Park. Community members, caretakers, survivors, and patients in hospice all came out to support the CRC and stand together. I’ve never considered Ithaca a particularly large community, but clearly it can pull together for a good cause.

I’ve heard people say that the best fundraisers are the ones that are reminiscent of the character of their organization. The CRC Walkathon did just that. House Fellow Jason Hungerford, a member of the CRC’s Board of Directors and a survivor himself, told us a bit about the CRC before the walk. He said that the CRC is meant to provide support to patients, families, and caretakers so they don’t feel alone. The walk wasn’t meant to be a quiet event, or one reminiscent of the sadness and struggle that comes with cancer. It was full of buttons with blunt slogans like “Cancer sucks,” jazz music, and an entire community. It was an amazingly bright and fun show of solidarity. It’s an event and an organization that I wish was available for everyone whose lives have been touched by cancer.