MoonWalk NYC for the Girls

Boston has two fundraising walks for breast cancer. The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in the spring and the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure walk over the summer. Of course, this is the last year for the Komen walk, as they're canceling it for 2014. In New York City, they, too, have the Avon walk, but they also have another one this year: MoonWalk NYC.

As the name might infer, MoonWalk is a late night walk. So late in fact that the walk is overnight. It is running this year from July 20th - 21st. And signups are open now if you'd like to participate. You can sign up for either the half moon walk at 13.1 miles or the full moon walk of 26.2 miles.

I've signed up for the Komen walk in the past, which is for over 50 miles, and lasts a full three-day weekend. I like the fact that the MoonWalk is over in a night. Even the Avon Walk is multi-day.

The MoonWalk is presented by Empire BlueCross BlueShield. The overnight walk through New York City begins with a participant opening ceremony celebration at Randall’s Island. Walkers will then depart weaving through Manhattan past the city’s most iconic landmarks, lit up brightly at night. With the two courses available, all fitness levels or abilities can participate.

Most of the fundraising from the MoonWalk NYC will be granted to Memorial Sloan-Ketting Cancer Center to help support the Breast Examination Center in Harlem. This is one of the first free screening facilities for breast cancer in the country where 80% of patients are uninsured but guaranteed support and guidance.

The MoonWalks began fifteen years ago in London, have engaged over 300,000 participants, and have raised over $126 million dollars to support vital breast cancer causes. People get to dress up in all kinds of interesting attire, and apparently must wear a bra, including the participating men.

If you're local to New York City, it is a great opportunity to raise money for a good cause and have some fun (and exercise). Sign up for the MoonWalk NYC now and start training for the big day.

Disclosure: I participated in this campaign for One2One Network. By posting, I am eligible for incentives. All opinions stated are my own.