Betsy Hull, an NIU Development Administration employee, will participate in the annual Chicago walk to try to raise $7,000 for the Susan Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

“It may seem like a large amount to raise, but the funding of medical research, screening and treatment needs every penny,” Hull said.

Every year, more than 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and it claims nearly 40,000 lives a year, Hull said.

Abigail Dean, a fellow walker and an NIU employee, was affected by breast cancer when her mother was diagnosed last year and currently is undergoing treatment, Hull said.

“We’re walking for all of those who have courageously fought against this disease, to honor the memories of lives lost and the hope of a future without breast cancer,” Hull said. “Most importantly, we are walking in support of Abigail’s mother who was recently diagnosed and has undergone treatment.”

Dean said she is grateful to have such good friends who are walking not only for all women with breast cancer but especially for her mother.

The walk begins Aug. 27 in Wisconsin and ends in downtown Chicago on Aug. 29. Each participant must pay a registration fee. All donations contributed go directly to research, treatment, screening and education of breast cancer.

Although the walk is not until August, Hull and her team are asking the NIU community for donations.

“We hope that by notifying the NIU community that each person might think of someone in their lives who has been affected by breast cancer and want to make a difference in the battle against the disease,” Hull said. “Knowing that the NIU community is very active and supportive in fundraising efforts, we hope they’ll share our passion for this cause.”