BAKERSFIELD. CALIF, (KERO) — Cancer survivor Melody Saberon Ybarra reflects on the power of the community through the 11th annual Kern County Cancer Foundation run/walk.
- The 11th annual Kern County Cancer Foundation Run/Walk brought together over 1,000 participants to support the fight against cancer.
- Cancer survivor Melody Saberon Ybarra shared her story of overcoming a 15% survival rate 20+ years after her diagnosis.
- This year, the foundation raised $41,000, just short of its $50,000 goal, while continuing to provide vital community support.
The 11th annual Kern County Cancer Foundation run/walk has made a powerful impact on many in the fight against cancer. With over 1000 participants registered, the community is coming together to make a difference in the fight against cancer.
“They told me I had a 15% chance of survival, but you know what, 20 + years later, I’m still here, and I’m still breathing,” says Melody Saberon Ybarra.
Melody Saveron Ybarra, a survivor herself, has spent over a decade volunteering, giving back to those who mentored and inspired her during her battle.
“I had liver and epithelioid sarcoma way back in the 90’s,” continues Melody.
Now, she’s determined to spread the message that gives her hope, one that Michelle Avila shared with her.
“Each year, we allocate over half a million dollars to help with medical bills related to cancer treatment,” says Mitchelle Avila.
For Melody, knowing that support was available made all the difference.
“That eased a lot of anxiety for my family and me, especially financially,” says Melody.
This year, organizers with the Kern County Cancer Foundation shared they raised $41,000, just shy of their $50,000 goal.
“We come largely, not only with the financial assistance but also with the support we bring together for an event like this in the community,” says Michelle Avila.
Reflecting on the event, Melody hopes that survivors and fighters take away this inspiring message.
“Celebrate, have faith, and keep your hopes up,” says Melody.
Organizers encourage anyone who missed today's event to join the next Kern County Cancer Foundation Run/Walk in Delano, starting at 8 a.m. For more information, visit the website on the screen.
The 11th annual Kern County Cancer Foundation Run/Walk made a powerful impact, drawing over 1,000 participants committed to making a difference in the fight against cancer.
“They told me I had a 15% chance of survival, but you know what? 20+ years later, I’m still here, and I’m still breathing,” says cancer survivor Melody Saberon Ybarra.
Melody, who has battled both liver and epithelioid sarcoma since the '90s, has spent over a decade volunteering. She is passionate about giving back to the mentors and survivors who supported her during her journey.
Now, she’s determined to share the message of hope that she holds dear, one inspired by Michelle Avila, Executive Director of the Kern County Cancer Foundation.
“Each year, we allocate over half a million dollars to help with medical bills related to cancer treatment,” says Avila.
For Melody, knowing this level of support exists was life-changing.
“That eased a lot of anxiety for my family and me, especially financially,” she adds.
This year, the foundation raised $41,000, just shy of their $50,000 goal.
“We come together in a big way, not only through financial assistance but also through the community support we bring to events like this,” says Avila.
Reflecting on the event, Melody hopes survivors and fighters walk away feeling encouraged.
“Celebrate, have faith, and keep your hopes up,” she says.
Organizers are inviting anyone who missed today's event to join the next Kern County Cancer Foundation Run/Walk in Delano, starting at 8 a.m. More information can be found on their website.
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