SOMAGals are on the move this spring. The team of local women, co-captained by Lori Dalvi and Lisa Murray, will participate in both the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on May 6, and The American Cancer Society's Relay for Life on June 15 and 16. (Their team pages are here and here.)

This will make the third year the SOMAGals have participated in the Komen event, raising about $38,000 total. Even before January of this year, the group raised some $5000. 

"It has been fun," said Murray, noting that the team of 29 includes adults and children.

A number of team members participated in the Undress for Success event in fall.  The team was also recognized by Village trustees.

The SOMAGals discussed their level of participation in the wake of the Planned Parenthood controversy when four or five members withdrew from the team. This response is not unusual; Lisa Gallipoli, one of the organizers of the local race, said more than 7,500 people are expected to show up.

After much thought, the SOMAGals came to a decision. "Because awareness is our goal," explained Murray, "and because we are not political, we decided to create a second team through the American Cancer Society Relay for Life." Donations for that event are earmarked for breast cancer research and awareness.

"We're very focused on our goals," explained Murray.  Team members count many friends and relatives who have experienced breast cancer. Murray notes that a number have participated in team events, as well. "No is untouched by breast cancer," says Murray. "That focus has pushed us through."