by Colette M. Armijo
RATON — “Spreading Color for the Cure one Colorful Step at a Time” will once again take over Roundhouse Park in Raton. This fundraiser is in its second year and keeps growing from strength to strength. In the first year, 2014 saw the community turn out in solidarity and support, and each participant had more colorful fun than they bargained for.
Jami Esquibel, organizer of Raton’s Colorful Fun Run, has participated in Susan G Komen 3-Day Breast Cancer Walk since 2008. For a participant, there is a $2,300 minimum donation requirement. Previously she relied on donations and small fundraisers. She then organized a Fun Walk which was successful from 2010 through 2013.
Then Esquibel decided to take it up a notch by bringing big city fun to Raton. This initiative is just one of the many ways that she continues to dedicate her efforts in the fight against cancer. She is also one of the powerhouses involved in organizing Colfax County’s annual Relay for Life.
Last year, over 225 participants registered for the Colorful Fun Run and each received a uniquely designed t-shirt together with the opportunity to contribute to someday having a world free of breast cancer. All fundraising goes towards the Susan G Komen Foundation which continues to make progress by leaps and bounds in cancer research. As the event grows, Esquibel is helped by a wide group of volunteers and is also assisted by her long time friend Karen Wiseman.
For $25, participants get the opportunity to come out, have fun, show support, and at the finish line, all the fun is unleashed in a display of frivolity and human canvases of color.
This year, Esquibel will be accompanied by her 37-year-old son Daniel at the Susan G. Komen 3-Day Breast Cancer Walk in San Diego November 21-23. This is the first time in seven years that she will not be walking alone.
If you are up for a chance to have a colorful weekend, registration can be done on the day, at the event. Come prepared for a vibrant experience at 8 am, Saturday July 25 at Roundhouse Park, Raton. With colorful footsteps, you too can contribute to finding a cure!
For registration or more information, Esquibel can be contacted at 575-707-0525 or by emailing her at meryrle@msn.com.
