(8/27) Thurmont is gearing up for the Sixth 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 at Frederick Memorial Hospital (FMH).

Jeff and Patty Hurwitz established the Patty Hurwitz 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. 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 and a healing space for patients and families at the Center for Breast Care at FMH Crestwood was created.

Since the beginning, the town’s residents and businesses jumped into the campaign enthusiastically raising $5,390 in 2014, $10,000 in 2015, $14,400 in 2016 and $15,000 in 2017. Just last year the community raised $18,000, and hopes to raise even more during this year’s campaign. Since its beginning in 2014, Thurmont has raised approximately $60,000 for the FMH Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund.

In fact, in order to top last year’s number, Thurmont staff decided to get a jump-start this year. A ZumbaThon was held at the Thurmont American Legion on April 7. Led by Zumba Instructor Kellie Bevard, this initial event raised $900 in just two hours, both surpassing last year’s funds raised and increasing its attendance. New this year was the Gateway to the Cure Golf Classic coordinated by Missy Zook-Grimes, held on June 21. This brand new event raised $1,900 and was well attended by 44 golfers. Thurmont Economic Development Manager Vickie Grinder commented, "We knew our first year we would not clear a large amount of proceeds because we had many expenses. We wanted to deliver a primo event for the golfers to provide a great experience while helping the cause. We know this event will grow based on the positive feedback received from the golfers and the golf pro at Maple Run Golf Club."

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 throughout the month. Pink light bulbs will be available at Ace Hardware, Hobbs Hardware and the town office for $4 each. In addition, the Town Office will be selling Gateway to the Cure tote bags, pink pinwheels, magnets, T-shirts, cookbooks from the FMH Hurwitz Breast Cancer Fund and 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 fifth 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 8, beginning at 8:30 a.m.. Online registration is live on RunSignUp.com.

The campaign has grown over the past few 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.