AUSTIN, TX – Survivors, fighters and those who have lost loved ones came together on Sunday to support all those affected by breast cancer. cancer.

The event aims to unite the community for breast cancer research and support.

Thousands of people dressed in pink came out to show their support for the fight against breast cancer at Barton Creek Square. Sunday was an emotional day as many shared their journeys.

Susan G. Komen, the world’s leading breast cancer organization, has been organizing the More Than Pink March for more than 20 years.

“We want to bring this community together. I think a breast cancer diagnosis can be a really lonely feeling. And so, it’s a space that everyone knows what you’ve been through, and you can find a community and a sisterhood and, you know, really, a really safe place to celebrate and honor the people that we’ve lost,” said Monique Stensrud, executive director of Susan G. Komen in Central Texas.

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Stensrud says one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. This year alone, an estimated 23,290 women Texas will be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Austin Resident Catherine Ramos was one of those 23,290 people.

“I was first diagnosed in 2004 and underwent about eight surgeries and treatment with tamoxifen. Then the cancer returned in 2016, and since then I’ve had radiation, had a little chemo. I’m taking anastrozole right now, and in February I had a double partial mastectomy,” Ramos said.

But that didn’t stop her.

“I am officially an eight-year survivor, and every day is a blessing and a joy. And one day we will end breast cancer. It could be tomorrow. So our goal here is to give hope,” Ramos said.

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This year, she individually raised more than $22,000 for breast cancer research, the highest amount of the year in Austin. Ramos says the money is also intended for people who need funding for treatment programs, medications or mammograms.

His family came together to support this milestone.

“I’m very grateful and very proud of my nanny. She’s survived for a long time and I’m going to be here with her today, so I’m very happy,” said Catherine’s granddaughter.

Although much progress has been made, the fight is not over.

Stensrud recommends four things to everyone: “Know your family history. Know your history. Know what your risk is. Get your mammogram. Get checked, know what your normal is, and live a healthy life.”

You can find more information about Susan G Komen here.