According to West Seattle resident and radio personality Marty Riemer, who MCed the Northwest Hope and Healing's Alki Beach 5K Run & Walk for breast cancer support, one thousand runners officially registered with another 200 or more also participating. The run started on Alki Av. and 61st St. at 9:am. Sunday, Aug. 29.

TO SEE MORE IMAGES CLICK THE PHOTO ABOVE

Northwest Hope & Healing Directer Shari Sewell seemed to appear at more than two places at once readying the crowd while survivor Debbie Otto, armed with megaphone at the starting line, spoke of the importance of participation and the mission of NHH.

Sean Messiter of Bellingham was the first to cross the finish line, at 16:23, two minutes ahead of Jack Griffing, the second place male. Nancy Ellis of Tacoma crossed at 18:42, the first place woman. But, as they say, breast cancer awareness was the true winner.

According to the NHH website, "Northwest Hope & Healing is a non-profit organization founded by Christine Smith in 2000. Christine created the Foundation while undergoing breast cancer treatment at the Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, WA. Her goal was to help newly diagnosed breast cancer patients in the Puget Sound area.

The mission of Northwest Hope & Healing is to provide financial assistance to patients in need, for non-medical support services such as child care, meal service, transportation, and emergency rent. In addition, our signature “Healing Baskets” are assembled and delivered, at no charge, to newly diagnosed breast cancer patients.

The goal of Northwest Hope & Healing is to assist women with the healing process so they may begin to feel whole once again. We assist women on their journeys and give them hope for the future."

For more information, check out: http://www.nwhopeandhealing.org/