PALM COAST, Fla. — The Pink Army is mobilizing once again, and more than 500 participants have already answered the call.
On Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026, survivors, families, healthcare professionals, community groups and four-legged friends will unite for the Pink Army 5K Run/Walk and 1-Mile Pet-Friendly Fun Walk. More than a race, the annual event is a powerful show of support for those facing breast cancer—and a direct investment in lifesaving care for local patients.
Every registration, donation and step taken helps provide breast cancer awareness, education and screenings for qualified individuals. Proceeds support diagnostic services, including mammograms, ultrasounds and biopsies that can lead to earlier detection, as well as patient comfort items such as robes and recovery bras. Funds will also help support the purchase of the da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system.
Most importantly, 100% of the proceeds support these critical causes.
Local Dollars, Life-Changing Results
The impact of the Pink Army can already be measured in lives touched.
In a little more than two months, the 2025 Pink Army campaign raised $75,417. Those funds helped 65 Free Clinic patients receive care and covered 139 procedures. Since its inception, the Pink Army has assisted 772 patients and funded more than 1,000 procedures while supporting cancer-related equipment, patient supplies and advanced medical technology.
“Led by community members, the Pink Army brings together various civic and nonprofit organizations to raise funds for qualified patients in Flagler County in need of diagnostic screenings, treatments or post-operative support for breast cancer,” AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation Director John Subers said.
“The money stays local and we have such a supportive community,” he added. “The core group continues to support it, but I think it’s the local community. In the 5K, we had more runners this year than we’ve ever had before. It just continues to grow.”
The 2025 event drew a record-breaking crowd of more than 950 registered participants, transforming the course into a vibrant sea of pink. Behind every pink shirt was a personal reason for showing up.
For survivor Regan Hansen, who had recently completed treatment at the Freytag Cancer Center, the event marked a new beginning.
“I’ve been through a lot this past year,” Hansen said. “I’m at the finish line, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than here with everybody—and other survivors.”
Tricia Mathis, nurse manager of nursing services at AdventHealth Palm Coast, walked the survivor’s path after becoming cancer-free.
“It’s overwhelming,” Mathis 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.”
Others participate in memory of those they have lost. Bob Massaglia of Ponte Vedra was the first runner across the finish line in 2025, completing the race in honor of his late wife.
“I was looking for a good race for a good cause, in memory of my wife,” he said. “She had breast cancer, so I like to pick one race for her every year. This is so special.”
Walking for Carly
This year, several teams have already formed in memory of Carly Tajmir, co-owner of East Coast Animal Hospital and a tireless advocate for animals and her community. Carly died from breast cancer on July 25, 2026, at the age of 38.
While her life was far too short, the compassion, generosity and determination she shared with thousands of people—and countless animals—left a lasting legacy across Flagler County.
Carly and her husband, Dr. Michael Tajmir, opened East Coast Animal Hospital in Palm Coast in 2020. What began as a modest clinic grew into one of the area’s busiest veterinary hospitals, known not only for exceptional veterinary care but also for helping families facing difficult circumstances.
Even while battling Stage 4 breast cancer, Carly refused to allow the diagnosis to define her. In one of her most inspiring accomplishments, she completed a full 26.2-mile marathon alongside her younger brother, Colby Delahoussaye, crossing the finish line surrounded by family.
As participants and pets take to the course, Carly’s legacy will be present in every team bearing her name, every rescued animal represented and every person inspired by her courage.
A Celebration of Life and Community
The Pink Army event also celebrates the progress being made every day at the Freytag Cancer Center. During its first year, the center recorded 588 new patient consultations, delivered 6,844 treatments and cared for 276 individual patients. A total of 279 patients rang the bell after completing cancer treatment, while the Judith C. Macko Cancer Resource Center distributed more than $7,000 in patient aid.
Those numbers represent neighbors, friends, coworkers and family members whose lives have been changed by accessible care and a community willing to stand beside them.
“What a blessing to be able to celebrate life and community,” Jeep Beach CEO Charlene Greer told participants at the 2025 event. “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.”
Answer the Call
With more than 500 registrations already secured and the number continuing to climb, now is the time to rally friends, family members and coworkers, form a team and join the Pink Army.
Participants may choose from:
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5K Run/Walk: $40; begins at 7:45 a.m.
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1-Mile Pet-Friendly Fun Walk: $40; begins at 8 a.m. and is not timed.
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Student 5K Run: $20 for participants 18 and younger using the code
FlaglerParent.
Packet pickup begins Sept. 30.
Whether you run for a survivor, walk in memory of someone you love, bring your dog for the fun walk or simply want to help another patient receive an essential screening, your participation matters.
The Pink Army has shown what happens when neighbors support neighbors: Barriers to care are broken, vital procedures are funded and people facing breast cancer are reminded that they do not have to fight alone.
Join the movement. Wear pink. Bring your team. Walk for someone you love and help ensure the next patient can receive the care, comfort and hope they need.
Register for the 2026 Pink Army 5K and 1-Mile Pet-Friendly Fun Walk.
