Cancer walk starts at Gadsden Park

SOMERTON - In its first couple of years, it has taken what might be called baby steps, but organizers of the annual Josefina Yepez Walk envision the day when it will grow as a fundraising event to benefit cancer victims.

Organizers hope 350 participants will come out Dec. 26 to take part in the seven-mile walk that will begin in Gadsden Park and end up in Somerton.

Walkers each pay a $10 entry fee that goes into a fund for cancer victims. Event sponsorships also add to the account.

"Right now we have helped patients and their families with minor expenses, such as gasoline to go to appointments, meals and other travel expenses," said Jose Yepez, a member of the Josefina Yepez Foundation. "The average has been $100 (per patient), but the idea is to increase it to $300 to $500."

So far, about 10 patients and their families have been helped through the fund, he said, adding that one of the challenges for walk organizers has been to promote it more extensively.

The walk will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Gadsden Park and proceed along Highway 95 to Somerton, ending up at Main Street Park.

The goal, Yepez said, is to raise $7,000 for use in 2010.

Those interested in taking part in the walk or making a contribution to the fund may contact Yepez at Yepez Autoparts in Somerton, 309 S. Somerton Avenue, or at 928-920-2699.

Cesar Neyoy can be reached at cneyoy@bajoelsol.com or 539-6890.