If ever words were unable to capture a situation aptly, it would be Becky Helmink crossing the Turkey Gobble finish line on her walker! Our amazing LIVESTRONG® program graduate from the North Brandon YMCA walked the 5K on November 23, 2023, joining over 4,000 participants for the 9th Annual Turkey Gobble road race — our biggest one yet!
"My goal for the Tampa Y's Turkey Gobble, other than finishing, was to bring smiles to everyone who saw this 'ole' girl taking on the challenge of a 5K. I saw loads of smiles. At 72 I never imagined myself in a cancer walk, but the challenge was offered, greatly anticipated and met with a very thankful heart. I had the best coach, Terika, and amazing teammates who cheered us on too. Yay, team!" shared an excited Becky.
She was diagnosed with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ) last year.
"Most DCIS is noninvasive and is contained within the milk duct. My treatment was a lumpectomy and at this time I am not sure where I stand in remission. I am scheduled for a follow-up visit in the spring of 2024. With all of the mind games that accompany a cancer diagnosis, I was glad when I became aware of the YMCA's LIVESTRONG program. I was happy when after nearly a year I was going to be face to face with other travelers on this journey. I was happy when I was accepted into the program and even happier to meet and work with my teammates. I was and am inspired by each of these caring people. Learning of their challenges has continued to encourage me. I'm living life, thankful for each day and each new adventure and the folks that God has put into my life. One day at a time! One step at a time, until the race is run. Thanks to everyone who made this experience one of great joy," continued Becky.
The event was held in downtown Tampa Thanksgiving morning and presented by AdventHealth. We hosted almost 260 teams and were grateful to have the support of over 150 volunteers who ensured everything ran smoothly. Participants showed up in fun costumes and with furry friends and enjoyed the opportunity to start their day by being active and helping a great cause.
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a 12-week free program, which helps cancer patients and survivors regain their strength. The event also saw LIVESTRONG graduates receive certificates. Dawn Kita, who is the Race Director, was delighted with the turnout.
“The 2023 Tampa YMCA Turkey Gobble was our most impactful Turkey Gobble to date because of the combined efforts of our sponsors, YMCA staff and the incredible volunteers who came out the week of Thanksgiving to give back! Thank you all!” Dawn enthused.
“We focused on the fundraising component and our racers raised over $22,000 in donations this year, more than doubling last year’s fundraising amount. We had many of our LIVESTRONG participants attend and graduate at the plaza before the event and then use the strength they gained during their program to complete the race. To see Becky cross the finish line with her coach cheering her on every step was incredible! This is what this race paves the way to make happen: people setting and achieving goals and supporting others to do the same.”
Speaking of fundraising and volunteers, the Bob Sierra YMCA raised the most funds for the race. Yaimy Marshall, Interim Executive Director for the Center shared the reasons for their success.
“This year we had a special LIVESTRONG coach, Sue Rausch, who is a cancer survivor. She led our fundraising efforts. Sue wanted to give back and help other survivors. This program has become very special for her. She has a connection with her groups that many of us cannot have. She is one of them herself. Sue set up a fundraising page for the race as well as recruited friends and family to spread the word. We also had flyers on all cardio equipment and instructors promoting the race in classes. Our LIVESTRONG alumni played a big role in promoting the program and donating as well. The Bob Sierra team donated $2,246.65 total by the time our little ‘center competition’ was up. This has been the most we have raised for the race at Bob Sierra. It was heartwarming, and great team bonding for our leadership team.”
Save the Date for our 10th Annual Turkey Gobble road race next year: Thursday, November 28, 2024, supporting the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program.
Enjoy our Turkey Gobble photo album here.
Published Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023.