More than 300 inmates and approximately 60 community members walked the San Quentin Lower Yard in support of cancer research. Inmates walking in the event donated more than $2,100 in the prison’s 4th annual Avon Breast Cancer Walk.
“God put it in my heart to find out what I can do to help find a cure,” said Sam Johnson, co-chairman of San Quentin’s Breast Cancer Walk. “I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, I praise God for everyone who lent a helping hand for this worthy cause,” added, co-chairman Steve Pascascio.
Johnson and Pascascio brought several inmate self-help groups together to sponsor the July 7-8 fundraiser. An additional $1,300 was donated by San Quentin TRUST, The Richmond Project, Kid CAT, Alliance For Change, Thespians, The 1,000 Mile Club, The Work, Kairos, and No More Tears.
Toward the end of the walk, donations neared its goal; however, it was about $200 short. An anonymous donor contributed the needed amount and the goal of $10,000 was met.
“It does my heart good to see so many different groups come together and set their differences aside to make this happen,” said acting Warden Kevin Chappell.
“The breast cancer walk is an opportunity for the Richmond Project to take our minds off the negativity that plagues our community and give back to those in need. We want all to know that the Richmond Project is about peace, love, and togetherness, no matter what city or community you dwell in,” said Reginald Hunt Jr.
San Quentin’s Arts in Corrections program donated about 25 pieces of art. The prison’s hobby program donated handmade bracelets. The art and the bracelets will be auctioned on Dec. 7 at the Oakland Art Museum to support the Women’s Cancer Resource Center.
“I live in a world fueled by generosity, compassion and love,” said Peggy McGuire, executive director of Women’s Cancer Resource Center. “$4.8 million was raised by Avon, with $1.2 million given to our foundation. This includes money raised by the San Quentin walk,” McGuire added. “I will be wearing my San Quentin CARES pink shirt at the San Francisco breast cancer event.”
Inmates, community members, and staff who participated in the walk were given business-sized cards saying I walked, and pink bracelets saying, San Quentin Cares, 2012.
“I was blessed to walk in memory of my grandmother and aunt who recently died of cancer,” said Clinton Martin, an inmate who worked on the walk.
“I would like to commend all of the volunteers, staff, and especially, inmates who have demonstrated their support and commitment to this vital cause. Thank you for standing by the women and men who have been or will be impacted by this disease. Together, we will be triumphant!” said Sen. Loni Hancock via letter to San Quentin.
