Not too long ago breast cancer was only spoken about in hushed tones; but on Oct. 9 approximately 400 Cherry Blossom Walkers proudly sported shades of pink, supporting local breast cancer prevention and treatment, at Morven Park.

As founder James Atkins told the crowd, he founded the Cherry Blossom Breast Cancer Foundation in honor of his wife Cheryl, who lost her battle with breast cancer in 2003. His loss inspired him to spur a movement in Loudoun and Fauquier counties.

Currently, the foundation raises $100,000 a year, mainly by organizing three 5K walks, like the one at Morven Park. Much of the support comes from large donors, like the Middleburg Bank, Atkins said, but every runner contributed $25 to $35 for the cause.

The money directly impacts community members with 90 percent of proceeds going to help women, he said, who cannot afford mammograms or other treatment.

“We let the national organizations focus on research,” Atkins said.

Lisa and Mark Whitaker had a personal reason for participating in the Cherry Blossom Walk.

“I’m going through treatment for the second time,” said Lisa Whitaker. “I’m just proud to be among these people, supporting the cause.”

The Whitaker's were two among 102 members of the “Parva Sock Patrol,” team, consisting of patients, staff, friends and family of Parva Plastic Surgery.

“We have a lot of breast cancer patients; we’re committed to them and to our community,” Dr. Behzad Parva said.

Dr. Holger Noelle of NOVA Medical Group understands that motivation. 

“We are all doctors, so we are in business of beating breast cancer,” Noelle said.

Teenager Olivia Westbrook was one of 50 members walking for her aunt Sheri LaTour on team, “Stop the War in MyRac” on Sunday.

Over at the registration table, Ashley Monroe said she volunteered with the Cherry Blossom Foundation before she felt personality affected by breast cancer. She volunteers in honor of her sister-in-law who is struggling with the disease.

At least 100 people signed up on-site, Sunday. Atkins said he was very pleased with the turnout, and that the event, which started with one walk in Middleburg five years ago, has grown every year. His next initiative will be to branch out into Sterling. 

More information about the Cherry Blossom Breast Cancer Foundation can be found on their website, cherryblossombreastcancerfoundation.org.