Over $6K Raised For Breast Cancer At 'Walk For Hope' In Kings Park

KINGS PARK, NY — More than $6,000 was raised for breast cancer research at the second annual "Walk for Hope" at Sunken Meadow State Park in Kings Park on Oct. 22, the Handler Hope Foundation announced.

The nonprofit organization, based in the Huntington-Northport area, raises funds and awareness for HER2 Positive and NNN breast cancer research.

The event drew more than 180 participants and "exceeded expectations," said Darren Handler, who founded the charity in memory of his wife, Lauren.

"The Walk for Hope was more than a successful fundraising endeavor; it was a day of unity, hope, and support for breast cancer survivors," Handler said in a news release.

Participants and their families enjoyed a day filled with fun activities, live music, and food and refreshments after the walk.

The foundation partnered with The Chloe Belle Foundation of Northport to collect toys that the foundation will provide to children battling cancer.

"This event was a fundraising success and a heartfelt celebration of courage and resilience," Handler said.

Handler Hope Foundation, inspired by Lauren Handler's medical journey and battle with cancer, is dedicated to supporting cancer patients, their families, and caregivers. By channeling Lauren's determination and strength, the foundation aims to contribute to the fight against breast cancer through donations, sponsorships, advocacy, and knowledge-building.

Handler founded the charity after his wife, Lauren, died of HER2 positive breast cancer metastasizing to her brain on May 19, 2022. She was 38. The wife and mother battled HER2-positive estrogen-negative breast cancer for more than two years.

"Lauren's personal experience illuminated the importance of routine monitoring for these high-risk cancer types, particularly through advanced imaging scans," Handler said. "Handler Hope Foundation strives to fund and support the researchers and doctors working to establish additional guidelines for imaging scans as a standard practice in patient care. By preventing other patients from enduring a path similar to Lauren's, the foundation sees to positively impact countless lives."

Handler Hope Foundation's next event, the Toast for Hope, promises to provide an extraordinary evening of wine tasting and camaraderie, Handler said. Hosted with the support of the Agency of Huntington and Keepsake Jewelry, the event is a chance for the community to come together and contribute to the foundation's mission of improving breast cancer care and support.

Handler urged people to join the Handler Hope Foundation in its mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of breast cancer patients and their support networks.

"Your support, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on the fight against breast cancer," he said.

The foundation hosts an annual "A Night Out With 1 North" party each year to raise money for cancer research while celebrating Huntington Hospital staff.

You can follow Handler Hope Foundation on Instagram here.

Click here to learn more about Handler Hope Foundation through a Q&A.

The foundation thanked its sponsors, Keepsake Jewelry, Retro Fitness of Freeport, and Shanahan's Bar and Grill.