Saturday, November 8, 2025
Community members gathered at Arthur J. Hendrickson Park on Oct. 5, for the Annual Dr. Elsy Mecklembourg-Guibert Memorial Breast Cancer Awareness Walk and Run, hosted by District 22 Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages.
The annual event aims to honor survivors, remember those who have been lost, and raise awareness about the importance of early detection and continued research in the fight against breast cancer.
“Before, it used to be a death sentence, but now, with advanced technology, we have more and more people surviving this battle, but there’s so much more research that needs to be done,” Assemblywoman Solages said. “There’s so much more work that needs to be done, and there’s also a lot of education so that we can prevent any other person from dying from this.”
The afternoon began with participants assembling in the park, where local organizations and sponsors hosted tables offering educational materials, health information, and community resources. Many attendees wore pink to show their support and solidarity. The event emphasized unity, education and access to care for those impacted by breast cancer.
Speakers who kicked off the event included Assemblywoman Solages, District 3 Legislator Carrié Solages, District 21 Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, Valley Stream Village Trustee Kevin Waszak, and Charlene Jeanty, co-owner of Nothing Bundt Cakes in Valley Stream and a 24-year breast cancer survivor.
“We all have someone in our lives who has been affected by breast cancer, but we’re here to say that you are not alone,” Legislator Solages said. “You are not alone. You’re part of a community, and you also live in a county where the county has many resources and services available for those who just want to know, because when you know better, you do better.”
Local advocacy and health organizations provided information and assistance to community members.
Following the gathering in the park, participants began the walk together through Hendrickson Park, moving as a group to honor those affected by breast cancer. The event provided a supportive environment that fostered reflection, awareness, and collective action. Families, survivors and community leaders walked side by side, demonstrating the strong commitment of Valley Stream residents to promoting health and compassion.
After completing the walk, attendees returned to the park, where a food truck and tables were available for everyone to enjoy. The atmosphere remained positive and community-focused, providing participants with the opportunity to connect and continue conversations about awareness, prevention and support.
Held each year during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the memorial walk has become a meaningful Valley Stream tradition. By bringing together survivors, families, advocates and local leaders, the event continues to highlight the importance of education, early screening and community involvement in the ongoing effort to combat breast cancer.
