A near record 1,100 people laced up their walking shoes yesterday morning to support a charity dedicated to helping patients overcome cancer.

The 38th Pals Annual Walk set out from the charity’s headquarters at Point Finger Road, Paget today, with crowds of supporters taking to the streets in orange shirts to raise valuable funds.

Colleen English DeGrilla, the executive director of Pals, said she was very excited by the turnout for this year’s fundraiser despite the grey skies and looming threat of rain.

“We had 1,100 as of this morning, but more have registered since. It’s the second highest ever, which is great, but the weather deterred some people, I think.

“This event is for everyone who has had cancer. As the sign says, you don’t have to face cancer alone.”

Ms DeGrilla said that while the event was an important fundraiser for the charity, it was also an opportunity for the community to come together.

She said: “I love seeing patients and families; families that have lost someone. We have families who keep coming back and are now bringing their grandbabies.

“Once you become a Pals patient, we are sort of in your life for ever, so the family just grows every year. They want to give back. There are so many people I recognise here today who are patients or who are family members of patients.”

Participants chose to take a 3K, 5K or 10K route along the Railway Trail, starting and finishing at Pals headquarters, but supporters could also commit to walking at other locations and times if they were unable to make the official start.

While the walk formally started at 9am, many participants chose to hit the road early.

Ms DeGrilla said: “Some are trying to beat the rush, and sometimes people don’t even come back. They may live in the West End and just walk home.”

Becky Ricciardi said that she and her husband, Brian, came out to support Pals because the charity has touched so many lives.

Mrs Ricciardi said: “Pals helps all of our families and friends in so many ways, so we came out today to support this great, great organisation, but also to support individuals who are not here, and who right now need all of our support.

“We are so thankful for everything they do here and all of the volunteers, and that is why we come out. Plus, I need some exercise.”

Mr Ricciardi added that he was impressed by the turnout, stating “1,100 is still a great turnout”.

Jenna Constable, one of several Bermuda Hospitals Board staff members taking part in the fundraiser, said virtually everyone on the island has their own cancer story.

Zico Jones, a BHB colleague, said: “Who hasn’t had someone in their lives who has struggled with cancer? Friends, family …

“For us, this is to give back. It builds good community, friendship and partnership.

Dave DeSilva agreed, adding: “It’s also great for financial support. Everybody needs it these days.”