(9/1) Thurmont is gearing up for the Fifth Annual Gateway to the Cure Campaign, which will be held throughout the entire month of October. In 2014, the town of Thurmont began the Gateway to the Cure Campaign to spread awareness about breast cancer to support the Patty Hurwitz Fund Breast Cancer Fund at Frederick Memorial Hospital (FMH).

Jeff and Patty Hurwitz established the Patty Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund in 1999 soon after Patty was diagnosed with breast cancer. The goal of the fund is to provide patients with the best options in early detection and treatment of breast cancer without having to travel long distances to receive treatment. Thus far, funds raised for the Patty Hurwitz Fund have made the new James M. Stockman Cancer Institute a reality for cancer patients in the community. Additionally, 3D and CAD Mammography Systems have been purchased to assist in the detection of breast cancer at an earlier stage, a healing space for patients and families at the Center for Breast Care at FMH Crestwood was created, and a device that enables the surgeon and radiologist to examine biopsy tissue in the operating room was purchased; all made possible through the generous contributions of donors.

Since the beginning, the town’s residents and businesses jumped into the campaign enthusiastically raising $5,390 in 2014, $10,000 in 2015, and $14,400 in 2016. Last year, they were able to raise $15,000, but this year, the community of Thurmont hopes to raise even more. In fact, in order to top last year’s number, Thurmont staff members decided to get a jump-start this year. A ZumbaThon was held at the Thurmont American Legion on May 6. Led by Zumba Instructor Kellie Bevard, this initial event raised $700 in just two hours. Since its beginning in 2014, Thurmont has raised approximately $46,000 for the Patty Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund.

As in prior years, pink light bulbs will be sold to allow residents to show their support by turning on their Pink every evening from 6-8 p.m. throughout the month of October to show support and awareness for breast cancer. Pink light bulbs will be available at Cousins Ace Hardware, Hobbs Hardware and the town office. In addition, the Town Office will be selling Gateway to the Cure tote bags, pink pinwheels, magnets, and T-shirts. New this year, the town will be selling Gateway to the Cure water bottles. Many businesses throughout the community will also have "pink" specials to help raise funds.

Due to the many events already going on in October, the fourth Gateway to the Cure 5K Run/Walk will be held earlier this year. Catoctin High School’s Track & Field Coach, John Steiner, will be facilitating the event, which will take place on September 15, beginning at 8:30 a.m.. Online registration is live on RunSignUp.com. Last year, participants and supporters showed up to the event adorned in all sorts of pink gear to run or walk the 5K.

The campaign has grown over the past four years, and will surely continue to grow as residents and businesses have continuously shown overwhelming support for the cause. Last year 40 businesses stepped up and showed their support through their "pink" specials and donations. Without their support, Thurmont’s Gateway to the Cure campaign wouldn’t be possible. So join Thurmont and "Turn Your Pink On!" this October.