Approximately 5,000 breast cancer advocates, dressed in pink, are expected at Ellis Square in downtown Savannah April 16 for the eighth annual Susan G. Komen Savannah Race for the Cure.

"Our Race for the Cure is our most important fundraiser of the year," said Sarah Denmark, president of the Komen Coastal Georgia board. "If each participant raised $100, we could provide mammograms for 5,000 women."

Komen Coastal Georgia Executive Director Aileen Gabbey said, "Just a few weeks ago, we announced our community grants which totaled over $350,000. Without the race, we would not be able to fund these grants. We like to share that what is raised here, stays here. Funds raised from the race directly help the people in our community."

Co-Chairman Dr. Ray Rudolph stressed the importance of early detection through screenings. "The five-year survival rate is 98 percent when breast cancer is detected early. It’s critical that women have access to life-saving mammography. That’s why this race is so important."

Memorial Health is returning as the presenting sponsor.

The goal for this year’s team and individual fundraising is $275,000.

For information or to register call the office at 912-232-2535 or go to www.ko mencoastalgeorgia.com. Online registration ends April 13.