San Francisco, CA, July 12, 2009 - The seventh annual Avon Walk for Breast Cancer season continued with the Avon Walk in San Francisco this weekend, which raised $6 million to advance access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer. The Avon Walk San Francisco is the sixth of nine Avon Walks this year, and the event attracted more than 2,800 participants drawn from 42 states, including 256 breast cancer survivors, who joined together to raise lifesaving funds and awareness for breast cancer.

Suze Orman, financial expert and Special Ambassador for the Avon Foundation, joined the festivities at the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in San Francisco.  Orman brought her unique personal warmth and financial savvy to the thousands of women and men who came together to raise millions for this important cause.

During the Closing Ceremony at Speedway Meadow in Golden Gate Park, walker and 5-year-breast cancer survivor Mara Langer from San Mateo, California was one of several speakers who provided an immediate reminder of the impact of breast cancer and the importance of taking personal action to make a difference.

“I am here this weekend to walk my fourth Avon Walk, and to continue to tell my story of survival.,” said Mara Langer. “Breast cancer has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, as we lost both my grandmother and my mother to the disease.  I’m battling my second diagnosis and believe in the ultimate healing power of faith and spirituality.  That, and the power of the Avon Walk community, which continues to motivate and amaze me every step of the way.”

Suze Orman, financial expert and Special Ambassador for the Avon Foundation for Women, announced during the Closing Ceremony a total of nearly $2.4 million in grants to 10 local organizations, ensuring the funds raised immediately benefit the community.  More grants are slated to be awarded throughout the year to breast cancer programs nationwide. “I am so proud to support the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer here in my hometown of San Francisco, and to have the privilege of presenting grants to these extraordinary organizations,” stated Orman.  “The Avon Foundation has supported breast cancer research and care in San Francisco for many years, but the outpouring of support and generosity through the Avon Walk this year, especially in light of economic situation we are all facing, has allowed the Foundation to once again make substantial and much-needed new grants that will benefit those facing breast cancer in San Francisco and nationwide.”

For a full list of the award winners, download the press release:
Avon Press Release 2009