HOULTON, Maine — Saturday, Oct. 17 marks the 10th anniversary of the Bridge to Hope Breast Cancer Awareness walk and the drawing for the Bridge to Hope quilt.
The quilt raffle has become a popular addition to the walk, but this year’s quilt is not the usual pink. Quilt makers Pam Hocking, Peggy Crane and Amy Hocking wanted to do something special for the 10th annual walk.
The quilt, named “Twinkling Stars of Hope”, is made with 26 different colors. The pink ribbon is the most recognized cancer color, but all cancers have their own color ribbon and are included in this year’s creation. The border of the quilt is the color plum, which honors caregivers. A caregiver is defined as a person who offers care and support, maybe providing a ride to an appointment or even making a meal.
“The quilt represents people battling all types of cancer surrounded by caregivers, and as anyone who has battled cancer knows, caregivers are so important,” said Kim Folsom, one of the organizers of the event. “Anyone who participates in the Bridge to Hope Walk, or sponsors a walker or even purchasing quilt raffle tickets is considered a caregiver!”
The quilt is the sixth to be raffled and all of the proceeds go directly to the Bridge to Hope. More than $6,700 has been raised to date by the combined raffles and organizers are hopeful this year’s raffle will be even more successful. The quilt is on display at Daniel’s Florist and tickets can also be purchased there. All Bridge to Hope committee members, Folsom, Dee Henderson, Marie Carmichael, Pam Hocking and Amy Hocking, have tickets as well. Those who wish to purchase tickets may call 532-2055.
The Bridge to Hope walk begins and ends at the Rec Building with registration starting at a 9 a.m. and the walk beginning at 10 a.m. Sponsor sheets are available at Daniel’s Florist, Lisa’s Hair Design and from any committee member.
The walk is a fairly short course and is held rain or shine, because people battling cancer walk through a storm on a daily basis. Those who would like to attend the event, but are unable to walk, are encouraged to attend and remain at the rec.
“We invited walkers to bring a photo of a cancer survivor or those who have lost their battle with cancer so that the group may honor and remember those individuals,” Folsom said. “There will also be a balloon release again this year. All money raised on the 17th will stay local. Bridge to Hope is local people helping local people.”
Bridge to Hope helps people in the greater Houlton area, but also from Danforth to Bridgewater and as far as the Sherman and Patten area. Bridge to Hope helps individuals with gas cards and, at times, other related expenses. The Bridge to Hope committee extends their sincere thanks for the support and generosity of this wonderful community. For more information, contact Folsom at 538-6793 or any committee member.
