Sandy Hook's 'Sole Sisters' Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness

Once or twice a week, as the sun comes up in Sandy Hook, you may see a group of women walking together down Bennett's Bridge Road or other nearby roads. They're part of a team from Newtown who have joined forces with Rye, N.Y.'s "Sole Ryeders" walking group to raise funds for breast cancer awareness.

The team of 17 women includes four breast cancer survivors. In October, they'll be participating in the 2013 Avon Annual Walk for Breast Cancer -- a 40-mile, two-day walk -- and each has committed to raising $1,800 to participate.

"If this last year has taught us anything, it’s the importance of resiliency, of finding a purpose and a meaningful way to help each other," said Kathleen Young, who leads the Sandy Hook-based faction of Sole Ryeders, called Sole Sisters. "After the world’s generosity to our community, we felt a strong urge to give back. Realizing how many of our fellow moms, family members, friends and colleagues had or were battling breast cancer, it seemed like a great way to focus our energy."

Audra's Story

Three years ago, Sandy Hook mother Audra Barth was diagnosed with breast cancer. She fought the cancer through 2011 and 2012, undergoing chemotherapy and a bilateral masectomy as the cancer first receded, then returned.

"After a year, your hopes are so high," she said. "You're thinking, 'We're done,' and to have to go through it all again is difficult."

On Dec. 3, 2012, she finally finished her treatment. Then came Dec. 14. Her two children were in Sandy Hook Elementary School at the time. As organizations around the world were offering help, the Rye-based Sole Ryeders invited a group of Newtown parents for a day at the beach, complete with kayaking, on Mother's Day.

"These women went through so much to make sure we would have a nice day," said Barth. "They pampered us from head to toe. No expectation, nothing in return. Just wanting us to know we're not alone."

Out of that day, friendships grew between the women from Sandy Hook and those from Rye. They extended an offer to join forces. The "Sole Ryeders" became "Sole Ryeders & Friends," and the Newtown women branded themselves the "Sole Sisters."

"They extended the hand of friendship when we needed it," said Young. "Joining their Sole Ryeders team for this year’s Avon walk was a welcomed opportunity to show our gratitude for their compassion while honoring those we love who have been affected by this disease."

After what she's been through, Barth says, the early-morning walks and friendships she's developed have helped her more than she can say.

"It's a difficult thing to be going through so much, especially when you're sick," she said. "It's easy to get lost in sadness, but they've just been so amazing. Just so supportive. Just getting together twice a week to go walking -- it's a beautiful thing."

To contribute to the Sandy Hook womens' efforts and help them join the Avon walk, visit their fundraising website.