More than 500 people participated in the WVU Cancer Institute’s 2025 Breast Cancer Walk.
More than 500 people sporting bright pink gathered under a brilliant blue sky Saturday (Oct. 18) at Milan Puskar Stadium for the annual Breast Cancer Walk, raising over $55,000 to benefit the WVU Cancer Institute.
The family-friendly event celebrated survivors, supported patients in treatment, and honored the legacy of Betty Puskar, the catalyst for the state’s first breast care center.
In addition to the walk, the festivities included breakfast, a survivors’ photo, kids’ activities, exhibits, giveaways, and more. All activities were free thanks to presenting sponsors Howard Hanna Premier Properties by Barbara Alexander, the Pratt family in memory of Puskar, and Gilead Oncology.
Puskar, diagnosed with breast cancer in 1985, contributed the founding donation for the Betty Puskar Breast Care Center at the WVU Cancer Institute. Walk attendees were invited to encourage others to contribute in Puskar’s memory and spread awareness.
Participants raised more than $55,000 for the Betty Puskar Breast Care Enhancement Fund, which supports access to coordinated care, educational tools, and technology aimed at the prevention, early detection, and treatment of breast cancer.
“This year’s walk was truly one to remember,” Hannah Hazard-Jenkins, M.D., executive chair and director of the WVU Cancer Institute, said. “It was wonderful to see the show of support for the patients and families so profoundly affected by a breast cancer diagnosis and for the team of healthcare professionals and others who are so committed to these patients. We appreciate all our partners, donors, and others who make this walk possible.”
The survivor group photo on the field is a beloved event of the day.
The fundraising total included a $5,758.36 donation from Morgantown Firefighters IAFF Local 313, which sold T-shirts to promote breast cancer awareness.
A spirit of joy and gratitude filled the gridiron during the uplifting event. Many participants said they appreciated the opportunity to connect with other survivors and found inspiration from their togetherness.
“There were so many smiles, so much love and hope,” Barbara Alexander McKinney, a longtime advocate for the walk, said. “We had a wonderful day for our survivors, families and friends. Thank you, Betty, for the dream that became a reality for West Virginia. Your legacy continues, and so will we.”
Natera, Peak Advantage Medicare Plans, and WV Caring Hospice and Palliative Care also generously supported the event.
All gifts to the WVU Cancer Institute are made through the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University and its affiliated entities.