One group of local women is gathering to walk 60 miles for a cause.

The Cedartown team, called A League for A Cure and captained by Cindy Dingler, will participate in the Breast Cancer 3-Day walk for a cure in Atlanta, scheduled for Oct 23-25. The team will walk 20 miles per day for a total of 60 miles for the weekend.

Members of the team include Cedartown residents Amy Monroe, Dana Peek, and Cindy Dingler, and Nicole Swiger of Rome. Other members of League for a Cure are Denise Crawley, Jane Downs, and Kimberly Maxwell.

According to team member Amy Monroe, Cindy Dingler came up with the idea of organizing a team after Kelly McKelvey, a friend and league sister, was diagnosed in 2008 with breast cancer. Fortunately, she was able to get immediate care and underwent a bilateral mastectomy. Doctors believe her survival chances are good, although she will have to be closely monitored for years to come.

“There are more and more people being diagnosed with different types of cancer every day in Polk County” says Monroe. “I believe Polk County has one of the highest percentage of cases in the nation.”

“Breast cancer is so devastating for women because of the harsh treatment required and the uncertain future that lies ahead,” she said.

According to the website, the 2009 Breast Cancer 3-Day Series will generate millions of dollars to fund critical breast cancer research, education, and community health programs.

Eighty-five percent of the net proceeds raised from the Breast Cancer 3-Day will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure, which is leading the global movement to end breast cancer forever by funding research and community outreach programs.

Fifteen percent of the net proceeds from the Breast Cancer 3-Day benefit the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund, a special field of interest fund that will provide support for breast cancer initiatives including research, treatment, prevention and education.

“We will be walking in support of all of the women in Polk County who have been diagnosed and who will be diagnosed with breast cancer,” says Monroe. “We want to show them that we care and want to raise money to fund research so other women don't have to suffer the same fate.”

The team is actively looking to expand its membership, and encourages anyone interested in participating, donating, or learning more to visit www.the3day.org