Newton Girl Named 'First-Time Walker of the Year' By Jimmy Fund

NEWTON, MA – Newton resident Anya Rhodes was recognized as “First-Time Walker of the Year" by the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund.

The Jimmy Fund runs fundraising events and other programs that benefit the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, one of the world's leading centers of cancer research and treatment, according to their website.

Rhodes was diagnosed with osteosarcoma last January and was treated at Dana-Farber for nine months of chemotherapy. She had her leg partially amputated last spring, and had to learn how to walk with a prosthetic.

Inspired by her journey, 38 of Rhodes’ family and friends created Team Anya and raised $55,000 for the Jimmy Fund Walk. Rhodes herself raised more than $8,000 this year.

Just a month after finishing chemotherapy treatment, Rhodes walked across the finish line at the Jimmy Fund Walk as a “Walk Hero.”

“It is incredible to witness all those who have dedicated their time, passion, and energy to supporting this event in its pursuit to continue critical research at Dana-Farber and ultimately to defy cancer,” Zack Blackburn, director of the Jimmy Fund Walk, said in a news release.

“Anya has demonstrated her commitment to conquering cancer and exemplifies the spirit of this event. People like Anya make this one of the most meaningful ways to honor the heroes we are walking for and inspire other walkers to join the cause,” he added.

Anya was among a select group of awardees recognized for their fundraising and commitment in the 34th Jimmy Fund Walk event, held in-person and virtually, this past October.