Fort Bragg dedicated teacher walks for cancer, community

By Demita Hollie/Special to ParaglideNovember 5, 2010

Fort Bragg dedicated teacher walks for cancer, community
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT BRAGG, N.C. - Just when you think you have just about seen it all, you realize that some of the most dedicated people are in the most unexpected places. Irwin Elementary School, right here in the heart of Fort Bragg, happens to be one of those places.

On the sunny morning of Oct. 22, teachers and students alike gathered outside of Irwin Elementary School to encourage and surprise one of their own - Brenda Warren, as she sets out on her journey over the next few days. Brenda doesn't usually like surprises, but the proud look on her face seems to suggest otherwise.

You see, science teacher Brenda Warren has been walking every day for the last month to prepare for the nearly 40 mile walk in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer event. This event is being held at the Frazier Park in Charlotte, N.C. on Oct. 23 and 24. The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer events are hosted in several cities across the United States each year, and each participant must raise at least $1,800 to participate - Brenda Warren, with the help of some of the staff at Irwin Elementary School, raised $5,500.

"I don't know of anyone personally that's had cancer, I just felt I needed to do something to give back," said Warren.

And she doesn't show any signs of slowing down. Staff members say she is scheduled to return to her classroom the day after her walk in Charlotte. Warren said she is returning to work quickly because of the cause she is working for and the teachers who have supported her through the whole fundraising campaign.

Irene Shirley and Brigitte Cain, fellow staff and supporters of Warren, wanted to bring her recognition and show appreciation for all her efforts.

"Irwin is a community school that cares about their community and the people in it. Although she (Warren) is walking in Charlotte, she is also walking for her community." Brigitte said.

For more information about how you can get involved with the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer and to find out about future events for 2011, call 1 (888) 540-WALK or visit their webpage at www.avonwalk.org.