The Walk of Hope was part of the Day of Hope event. All proceeds raised on Saturday will support the Harold Alfond Cancer Treatment Center’s expansion plans.
AUGUSTA, Maine — When you’re dealing with a cancer diagnosis, having someone by your side means the world. That’s something Heather Moore understands on a personal level.
“My sister passed away from breast cancer 23 years ago at the age of 35,” Moore said. “Now I’m helping people like me and they’re in remission.”
That’s why Moore will lead hundreds of people at this year’s Maine General Health Day of Hope celebration on Saturday at the Augusta Civic Center and Walk of Hope to honor those receiving treatment. That was part of the motivation for raising money for a new building at the Harold Alfond Cancer Treatment Center.
Participants raised more than $200,000 for this cause, exceeding the fundraising goal.
Demand for care has more than doubled since the center opened just 10 years ago, and plans for the new wing will allow staff to meet those needs.
“No one should ever make a cancer diagnosis alone,” said Executive Director Debbie Borden. “(The addition) will be more efficient, (and) increase access to care to treat the whole person.”
Attendees also had the opportunity to talk with educators about health screenings and cancer treatments, participate in healthy cooking demonstrations, and share inspirational quotes on the wall.
Attendee Kathy Beaudoin said her breast cancer was discovered during an annual mammogram and she is recovering from surgery. She said she was heartened to see more than 1,000 people come together to support cancer treatment.
“The Alfond Center is great. I’ve been there, and everyone there is great,” Beaudoin said. “No matter what, I’m going to keep going and support others because there’s too much cancer.”
The Harold Alfond Cancer Treatment Center expansion is expected to open by spring 2025.
