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Community Corner

Brookline Resident Diane Sokal Works To Prevent Breast Cancer For 15th Year In A Row

Long time supporter of the Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC), Diane Sokal, returns for her 15th consecutive year to the state’s leading breast cancer organization’s annual Against the Tide events.  MBCC’s 22nd annual Against the Tide swim, walk, run, and/or kayak event will be held at DCR’s Hopkinton State Park in Hopkinton, MA on June 21st, and the 15th annual Against the Tide event will be held at DCR’s Nickerson State Park in Brewster, MA on August 16th.

 

Sokal, a Brookline resident, is an avid supporter of MBCC because of its active support of the scientific research done by its sister organization, Silent Spring Institute, which studies environmental links to breast cancer. 

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“Massachusetts has one of the highest incidence rates of breast cancer in the nation,” says Sokal. “This leads to the question, are local environmental factors causing the increased breast cancer risk for Massachusetts women?” 

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Sokal’s determination to get answers is evident in her incredible fundraising efforts for MBCC. She is consistently one of the organization’s top fundraisers for the Against the Tide events. During her 14 years of participation, Sokal has raised over $55,000 by collecting small contributions from family, friends, and colleagues.

 

Once again this year, Sokal will complete her usual 1-mile swim, 2-mile kayak, and 3-mile “nature triathlon,” at the Hopkinton Against the Tide event on June 21st. 

 

“Diane is an essential contributor to MBCC because of her lasting dedication,” says Cheryl Osimo, Executive Director of MBCC. “She understands that breast cancer prevention is not a job for our children and grandchildren, and she has worked tirelessly to change the legacy of breast cancer for future generations.

 

To make a pledge toward Diane, please visit her page at: http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/diane-sokal/against-the-tide---hop... . 

 

Currently, MBCC is the only breast cancer organization, locally or nationally, that focuses on breast cancer prevention. The statewide Against the Tide events generate funds towards this goal and MBCC’s work in community education, research advocacy, and public policy change. The morning events consist of a 1-mile swim, 2-mile kayak, 3-mile walk, 5K run, and 10K run. Participants may choose one or more of the activities in any combination. There will also be a “Splash and Dash” Aquathlon option where participants first "splash" in the competitive 1-mile swim and then, "dash" in the competitive 5K or 10K run. Each year, this family-friendly event brings individuals from all demographics and all abilities together with one goal in mind: breast cancer prevention. 

 

MBCC is inviting people throughout Massachusetts to register for one or both of the events at www.mbcc.org/swim or by calling 617-376-6222. Those who cannot attend are invited to make a pledge to a registered participant or existing team atwww.firstgiving.com/mbcc

 

DIRECTIONS: DCR’s HOPKINTON STATE PARK

Park location: 268 Cedar Street, Hopkinton, MA 01748

Rte. I-495 (north or south) to exit 21A, Main Street Hopkinton. Travel on Main Street until the third traffic light located at the heart of downtown Hopkinton. Turn left, traveling North on Route 85. Proceed approximately 2 miles to the Hopkinton State Park entrance on the right (do not enter the Field Office on the left).

or

Mass Pike to Rte 9E Turnpike Road via Exit 23A toward Framingham. Take the RT-85S ramp toward Hopkinton / Milford. Turn slight right onto Cordaville Road / RT 85. Continue to follow Route 85. Hopkinton State Park entrance is on the left.

 

DIRECTIONS:  DCR's NICKERSON STATE PARK 

Park location: 3488 Main Street, Brewster 02631

From Boston: 

- Take Rte. 3 south to the Sagamore Bridge 

- Take Rte. 6 to exit 12 in Orleans 

- Turn left off the ramp onto Rte. 6A West towards Brewster. 

- Continue for about 2 miles. Park Entrance is on left.

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