HOULTON, Maine — A record-breaking crowd turned out Saturday to help raise money for local people going through cancer treatments as part of the Bridge to Hope walk.
A total of 300 walkers participated in this year’s event, raising a record $11,089.
The mission of the non-profit group called “Bridge to Hope” is helping people in southern Aroostook County with financial support. The organization has helped hundreds of families over the past 12 years, with such kind gestures as gasoline gift cards and hotel accommodations The group also has helped with travel expenses for patients undergoing cancer treatments or having appointments in central and southern Maine.
“I am still overwhelmed with the success of the walk,” said Kim Folsom, one of the organizers. “Our committee may be the organizers, but we would have nothing if we didn’t have the support of our communities. The day of the walk, we have people just show up to do whatever is necessary.”
By keeping funds local, the group has been able to help individuals undergoing cancer treatments with various expenses as well as providing them meal gift cards, gift baskets and even donations of turkeys during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
If funds are available, the group also offers a small scholarship to any student who lives in southern Aroostook County who has been affected by cancer in one way or another. Bridge to Hope also supports Sarah’s House in Brewer, which provides temporary lodging and support to those receiving treatment at the Eastern Maine Medical Center Cancer Care facility.
The first walk was held in Houlton’s Riverfront Park at the Gateway Crossing Bridge, which led to the group’s name, “Bridge to Hope.” That walk drew 50 people and raised about $800.
Melody Gonya of Houlton was one of several people participating in the Bridge to Hope Walk to support a loved one with cancer. Gonya’s husband, Ken, is dealing with colorectal cancer and was unable to attend the walk.
“He’s doing well,” she said. “It has been about a year since his diagnosis. My father (Anthony Fitzpatrick) also passed from lung cancer, so it is very personal for me. There are so many people in this community who are affected and I wanted to show my support for this wonderful program. They have helped us and supported us and it feels good to be able to give back.”
