Record-breaking Thrive 5K helps support breast cancer care

Jasper, Ga. (April 16, 2026) — More than 100 runners, walkers, breast cancer survivors and supporters of all ages gathered at Roper Park on Saturday afternoon for the fifth annual Piedmont Mountainside Thrive 5K for Breast Cancer, marking what organizers called the event’s most successful year yet.

The April 11 event, presented by Northwest Georgia Oncology Centers (NGOC), raised critical funds to support local breast cancer patients through education, prevention and therapy services. Proceeds from the race will directly benefit patients served by Piedmont Mountainside Hospital, with a focus on pre-treatment teaching, lymphedema prevention and post-treatment occupational therapy, as well as initiatives for individuals identified as high-risk for breast cancer.

“Our fifth annual breast cancer Thrive 5K was the best ever,” said Rosa Langella, MD, breast surgeon at Piedmont Mountainside Hospital and founder of the Thrive 5K. “We had over 140 enthusiastic individuals in all age ranges, including breast cancer survivors, their friends and family, as well as their physicians, who showed up to support this cause. We also had the support of more than 35 sponsors from our wonderful community who helped to make this event possible. The money raised is greatly needed and will be used for pretreatment teaching, lymphedema prevention, and post‑treatment occupational therapy, among other breast cancer initiatives.”

Participants filled the park in pink attire as a visible show of solidarity and awareness. Survivors walked alongside loved ones, community members and health care providers, reinforcing the event’s mission of bringing the community together to support patients throughout every stage of the cancer journey.

As a breast surgeon, Langella sees firsthand the challenges patients face beyond medical treatment.

“No one should have to choose between receiving the care they need and managing daily living expenses,” Langella said. “Thrive 5K allows our community to come together in a meaningful way to ensure patients have access to education, therapy and supportive services throughout their cancer journey.”

The Thrive 5K has grown steadily since its inception and continues to attract runners and walkers of all fitness levels. Organizers credit the event’s success to the strong community response, as well as the involvement of survivors and local medical professionals who understand the importance of comprehensive cancer care.

“All proceeds remain local,” event organizers emphasized, noting that funds raised go directly back into programs and services for breast cancer patients at Piedmont Mountainside Hospital.