PALM COAST, Fla. – If the day had been scripted, it couldn’t have gone better. The 2025 AdventHealth Palm Coast Pink Army 5K and 1-Mile Pet Friendly Walk defied the weather forecast and smashed attendance records with more than 950 participants registered by Sunday morning.
A vibrant sea of pink filled the landscape as participants, spectators, and supporters turned out not just for a race—but for a movement. The Pink Army 5K has become a beacon of hope and resilience, honoring breast cancer survivors who share their stories and ring the ceremonial bell, marking their triumph over cancer.
The atmosphere buzzed with energy from the start. FPC JROTC members raised their sabers high in salute, while cheer squads from Matanzas and Flagler Palm Coast High Schools pumped up the crowd with relentless enthusiasm. From hula hoop warmups to a powerful rendition of the national anthem, the morning felt larger than a local run—it felt like a celebration of life.
Delivering the invocation was Charlene Greer, CEO of Jeep Beach, a nonprofit known for giving back to regional causes. She addressed the crowd with gratitude and reverence.
“What a blessing to be able to celebrate life and community,” Greer said. “Let’s celebrate the journey of the survivors who are here, and let’s remember those we’ve lost. Let the beautiful memories of their lives flood us this morning, and let their legacy live on through us.”
Their “Why” – Stories of Strength and Survival
Leading the survivor’s walk and first to ring the bell this year was Regan Hansen, who recently completed her breast cancer treatment at the Freytag Cancer Center.
“I’m just so excited to be the official starter of this race,” Hansen said, eyes scanning the impressive crowd. “I’ve been through a lot this past year. I’m at the finish line, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than here with everybody—and other survivors.”
Hansen emphasized the importance of awareness, especially as breast cancer diagnoses become more prevalent.
“I had genetic testing, and I don’t have the gene—it just happened. I think more and more women are getting breast cancer, and not necessarily because of genetics. It’s amazing to see how many people are coming out to support this cause.”
Also walking the survivor’s path was Tricia Mathis, Nurse Manager of Nursing Services at AdventHealth Palm Coast, who has now been cancer-free for 19 months.
“It’s overwhelming,” she said. “The amount of support I’ve had through this journey has been incredible. I couldn’t have done it without this entire team at AdventHealth. I was treated by my own work family—so it was incredible.”
The first across the finish line was Bob Massaglia of Ponte Vedra—not for a medal, but in memory of his late wife.
“I was looking for a good race for a good cause, in memory of my wife,” he said quietly. “She had breast cancer, so I like to pick one race for her every year. This is so special.”
Red Carpet for the Canines
As the clouds held back and sunshine prevailed, the 1-Mile Pet Friendly Walk and Dog Costume Contest brought furry flair to the day. Dogs strutted in costume, charming the crowd and judges alike.
The contest was sponsored by Danielle DeSousa (Pet Friendly Lender), Denise Fernandez (EXP Realty), Talisha Autry (Repass Law), Mandy Lorenz (Tilton & Unger Insurance), and Ilyse Pinette (Shane Insurance)—all members of The BOLD Ladies group.
“We all partner together and we’re all affiliated within The BOLD Ladies,” said DeSousa. “We put all the baskets together for first, second, and third. Super fun.”
She added that the growing number of pets and their owners joining the event reflects the community’s love for their furry friends.
“I think like 60 percent of people own pets, so that’s fun—and they get to support the community while doing something they love.”
Community Partnership Drives Success
As part of the Pink Army Committee coordinating the large-scale event, Geena Catalano, Special Events Supervisor for the City of Palm Coast, was thrilled with the results.
“It’s been awesome,” said Catalano. “This is probably one of my favorite events that we do—and we host over 40, so that tells you something.”
Catalano praised the collaboration with AdventHealth and the overwhelming community involvement.
“Advent is awesome to work with. This is our annual 5K event raising awareness for breast cancer and we surpassed 950 registrations this year—which is a record-breaking number, first time ever. We had awesome support from the community and beautiful weather. You can’t beat that.”
Staying Local, Saving Lives
All funds raised from the event stay in Flagler County, directly supporting eligible patients with screening and diagnostic breast health services through the AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation.
From survivors to supporters, pets in costume to healthcare heroes, the 2025 Pink Army 5K wasn’t just about crossing a finish line—it was about coming together for a cause that touches nearly everyone. And for many, that unity is what makes the event unforgettable.
