Strength in Numbers

When it comes to raising funds and awareness to fight breast cancer, the IU Health team rises to the challenge. In fact, often IU Health recruits one of the nation's largest race for the cure teams.

Shirley Hofmann, one of the many IU Health team members participating in the Race for the Cure, became involved 14 years ago when she found out her niece had breast cancer. “Actually she was the first person I had ever known, personally, that had it. One of the guys at work was a team captain, so I started helping him,” says Shirley. When he quit, Shirley took over the team. “That same year, in 1998, I found out I had breast cancer. So then I had an even more personal reason,” she says.

Diagnosed with stage four cancer, Shirley underwent chemo, radiation and bone marrow transplant, but remains cancer free today. Through it all, she has remained a team captain for the past 14 years, enjoying the support of her friends and family. “I get my team members everywhere—friends, friends of friends and coworkers,” she says. And we’re not talking about just a few people—she has had over 200 members on her team.

“My favorite part of the Komen Race is the Survivor Parade,” says Shirley. “Just to see all of the Survivors coming together—it brings tears and joy both.”

Cheer on Shirley and her team as they race for the cure on April 21, 2012. Better yet, join her! This year will mark Central Indiana Race for the Cure’s 21st anniversary and to commemorate, the IU Health team aims to rally 5,000 people to join the team. Find out more at Why I Walk.