Building Community and Bringing Hope: Making Strides against Breast Cancer of Northwest Indiana

Bringing hope, healing, and unity to Lake County, Making Strides of Northwest Indiana drew more than 1,000 walkers to the Lake County Fairgrounds on October 12 for a day dedicated to breast cancer awareness and community support.

The walk began with an energizing performance from the Merrillville High School marching band and cheerleaders, setting the tone for a morning filled with celebration and purpose. Among the organizers was Nicole Otis, Outreach Director for Community Advocates of Northern Indiana (CANI) and a longtime advocate for breast cancer awareness . Acting in her independent role as Event Lead with Making Strides, Otis opened the event with words of gratitude and empowerment, encouraging participants to celebrate survivors, honor loved ones lost, and continue pushing toward a world without breast cancer.

"I got involved with the Strides Walk first as a walker,” she said. “I started walking to show my support and collect donations for about five or six years. Then, in 2016, my aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer, and I decided I wanted to get more involved. I showed up at kickoff and asked, ‘How can I help?’ Since then, I’ve been part of this team and I’ll be here until we no longer know breast cancer to be this devastating disease.”

American Cancer Society (ACS) Staff Partner Jamie Miller also spoke during the opening ceremony, recognizing the immense support from community partners. “It wouldn’t be possible to do the work we do without organizations who show up year after year to advance this mission,” he said, highlighting the importance of collaboration in fighting breast cancer and promoting health equity.

Inside the Industrial Building, CANI’s booth stood out as a hub for prevention and education. Staff provided free Body Mass Index (BMI) and behavioral health screenings, while sharing educational materials designed to help community members build sustainable wellness habits. The table’s focus on early detection, healthy living, and behavioral health reflected CANI’s broader approach to improving quality of life in the region.

Outside, attendees enjoyed food trucks, music, and family-friendly fun.

CANI is grateful to the American Cancer Society, local organizers, and every participant who walked in support of breast cancer awareness. Through partnerships like Making Strides, CANI continues to advance its mission of creating healthier lives and more connected communities throughout Northwest Indiana.