17th annual ‘Flames of Hope’ weekend concludes with benefit 5K

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The 17th Annual “Flames of Hope” weekend, hosted by the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Research Foundation came to a lively conclusion on Sunday.

Almost 3,000 runners and walkers flooded Gaspee Street and the city of Providence in a sea of pink, showing their support for all those impacted by cancer.

This is a photo of runners and walkers at the 17th Annual Gloria Gemma ‘Flames of Hope’ weekend in Providence. (WLNE)

Maria Gemma, daughter of Gloria Gemma, and Executive Director of the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Research Foundation said she feels the weekend was a success, despite some wet weather.

“Even though it was very muddy, it didn’t stop people from celebrating. Nothing stops someone that’s been impacted by cancer — rain and mud doesn’t make a difference,” Maria told ABC 6 News.

The foundation kicked off the weekend with a fundraising goal of $200,000, over 90% of which will be donated to fund community resources, education and programs for families who have been touched by cancer.

The 2023 “Flames of Hope” weekend began with an educational expo called “Passport to Survivorship” that was held Saturday morning at the Rhode Island Convention Center.

The expo was followed by the “Illuminations of Life” torch ceremony, where 150 representatives from the Gloria Gemma Foundation carried torches to the full WaterFire lighting Saturday night.

Maria further encouraged anyone who is battling cancer or knows someone battling cancer to reach out for support at the Gloria Gemma Foundation website.