Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure hits close to home for many - WAOW - Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, Sports

Hundreds of people joined the fight against breast cancer in downtown Wausau, for the central Wisconsin Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

But for some, it's more than just a race.

"You cry just walking around and seeing everyone," Dawn Krueger said.

Krueger is battling breast cancer. And on Sunday, she wasn't alone. Krueger joined dozens of women personally affected by the disease.

"I just wanted to be involved. Once you have it, you like to be there," Lila Gwidt said.

Gwidt says she has been breast cancer free for 16 years--but if affected her long before her own battle.

"My sister had it and she passed away. That's why I watch myself now," Gwidt said.

That's why she joined the fight to end breast cancer.

"This race is about celebrating the survivors we have, honoring those we've lost and creating new survivors by treatment and research," Race Director Jennifer Smith said.

Organizers say more than $170,000 was raised at this year's event. And the majority of the money stays right here in central Wisconsin.

"Support women in our state and immediate community," Smith said.

That's support felt by many.

"At the time, you think you're the only one going through it. But you look around and you're not the only one," Krueger said.