Over 5,000 people turn out for this year's Komen Wisconsin More Than Pink Walk

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The 2019 Komen Southeast Wisconsin More Than Pink Walk was a success regardless of the weather.

Organizers say more than 5,000 people showed up for the opening ceremony and walk that began at 9 a.m. The morning kicked off with high energy.

Thousands of survivors, fighters and their supporters braved the rain Sunday to stand up to breast cancer. Rain or shine, organizers say the community had one ultimate goal- to get one step closer to finding a cure for breast cancer.

"We may see a little bit of a dip in crowd but the best part is our fundraising is up this year and that's what's most important, because we can help more people with the more funds that we raise," said Jess Owens, Development Manager for Komen Wisconsin.

"The outreach for the community is just outstanding with everybody showing up on a day like this where it's raining and it's not the best weather but hey we're coming out and we're supporting it," said participant BJ Rubick. 

The 2019 Komen Southeast Wisconsin More Than Pink Walk has raised $455,000 or 70-percent of their $670,000 goal. The walk was an emotional day for survivors, those battling breast cancer and many who came to honor loved ones. 

"My spirit is telling me i need to do this walk, at least to help someone else you know, I know I just need to be here today," said breast cancer survivor, Charlotte Miller.

"I was very teary eyed at times, but I just love it," said breast cancer survivor, Bernice Bynum.

Scott Peterson traveled from Virginia Beach to represent his late sister-in-law with her family.

"We do our very best now, to get here every year to share this time with her family that she couldn't," said Peterson, "So it's special to us."

"There are so many individuals who just fundraise their heart out because they know the money raised here stays right here in Wisconsin," said Nikki Panico, Executive Director, Komen Wisconsin. 

Charlotte Miller is a 4-year breast cancer survivor, but says she wont be considered cancer-free until she passes her 5-year mark.

"I'm grateful and i'm also scared, but it's normal," said Miller. "But i'm very grateful."

Money raised from the two-mile walk  go to help men, women and their families battling breast cancer with mammograms, doctor visits, support and research.

Cancer survivors say the recovery process hasn't been easy, but are thankful to be walking alongside a community of supporters.

"It's the stuff that we have to go through afterwards, and it's not that easy," said Miller. "But life is good."

"We're all in this fight together and it's really about uniting our community and getting everyone here on the same page and helping us win this fight," Owens says. 

The walk may end Sunday but fundraising does not end until October 22nd. CBS 58 News is a proud sponsor of the event.

For more information about the walk and ways to donate, click here.