Running has been a vital part of Laurie Bilovesky's life, offering her strength and community support. This year, as she participates in the OhioHealth Capital City Half & Quarter Marathon, the event holds special significance for her. As a breast cancer survivor, Laurie aims to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Throughout her treatment at OhioHealth, which included a double mastectomy, radiation, and ongoing hormone therapy, Laurie maintained her routine of running and strength training to regain control over her life. As a pacer for Fleet Feet Columbus Marathoners in Training (MIT) program and the M3S Sports Cap City & Fleet Feet Pace Team Powered by On, she received immense support from friends in the running community. “They showed up for me in ways I never expected. I never felt like I was alone in this community at all,” Laurie said.
Now in remission, Laurie's participation in the Cap City race is filled with purpose. “Crossing that finish line is a statement. I can still do this, and my life didn’t have to change because of a diagnosis,” she expressed.
Laurie's early detection through routine screening played a crucial role in her quick treatment initiation while allowing her to continue pursuing what she loves. She acknowledges that not everyone has access to such care.
A portion of each race registration fee will support the OhioHealth Foundation's Mobile Mammography Program. This initiative provides essential breast cancer screenings directly within communities to ensure women who face barriers can access these services.
“There are so many women who are afraid to get screened, afraid to hear what I heard,” Laurie noted. “The more we can make screenings accessible, the better. If we can bring it to them and make it easier, it will go a long way in catching cancer earlier.”
For nearly ten years, OhioHealth’s Mobile Mammography Program has been providing mammograms across more than 50 counties with three mobile units visiting various locations like care sites and community fairs. In fiscal year 2024 alone, they conducted over 4,400 mammograms.
“Having a dedicated fund for mobile mammography means we can advance OhioHealth’s commitment toward bringing vital breast health screenings to women who may be unable to access them due to financial limitations or barriers to transportation," stated Karen Morrison, president of OhioHealth Foundation and senior vice president at OhioHealth. "The OhioHealth Foundation is grateful to be the benefitting charity of this incredible race."
For Laurie Bilovesky, race day symbolizes resilience throughout her journey while celebrating everyone's pursuit towards their personal goals both on course tracks as well as beyond them: “When I’m pacing," she shared encouragingly with fellow runners,"I always tell runners ‘You’ve been with me too long; go finish strong!’ Watching them push through cross that line realizing what they’ve achieved is best feeling world.”