The sixth annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, the American Cancer Society's 4.5 mile walk through Balboa Park, will take place Sunday, Oct. 19. The non-competitive walk begins and ends on the lawn area at the corner of Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street and includes the portion of Route 163 from Park Boulevard to Robinson Avenue. Registration is from 7:15 to 8:15 a.m. with the walk starting at 8:30 a.m. Shuttle service from the Veteran's Administration Building parking lot east of Park Boulevard will begin at 6:30 a.m.

Last year, some 10,000 local walkers raised $430,000 for breast cancer research, public education, patient and family support services and advocacy to improve access to care. During 2003, more than 2,000 San Diego County women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and nearly 400 will die of the disease, according to ACS statistics.

Funds raised at the event will be used for scientific research on the causes of breast cancer and preventive measures; Reach to Recovery, a one-to-one support program for women with breast cancer; legislation on insurance coverage and mammography standards as well as other breast cancer education efforts. The walk promotes prevention and early detection as a woman's best defense in fighting the disease.

In addition, individual or group volunteers for registration, water stations, cleanup, event and route set-up or course marshals are needed (some training may be required). There is no registration fee for walkers; however, they are encouraged to secure at least $100 in pledges. For information on volunteering or forming a team, call (619) 682-7445 or visit gaylesbiantimes.com for a link to the walk website.