Susan G. Komen 3-Day steps off in Montgomery County

WILLOW GROVE, Pa. (WPVI) -- A 60-mile Susan G Komen 3-Day began in Willow Grove Friday morning.

Each step is meaningful. The steps are for survivors. They're for those who succumbed. They're for a cure.

Kathy Heck of North Wales lost her mother to breast cancer in 2008. This is her 7th walk and there are a lot of reasons why like many here, she returns each year.

"In 2013 I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer," she told Action News. "Two weeks out of chemo I have a lot of reasons to walk: to show my strength and energy, and give empowerment to all women so no one else has to fight this horrible disease."

The purpose behind this multi-city annual event is of course a serious one.

But the weekend is packed with levity, tutus, capes, pins, and pink.

A zumba warm-up started the day in Willow Grove, and the energy was still going strong as they walked in Oreland, cheered on by supporters along the way.

There are somber moments as well, moments to comfort one another, to lend support, to make each other smile. This is a group united by a common goal.

"We walk until we find a cure," said Crystal, of Philadelphia.

"She should not have to go through what I did. So I walk for her," said Dee Creese of Northeast Philadelphia.

The 3-Day walk finishes up at the Navy Yard on Sunday.