Race For The Cure Volunteers Are Vital

By LeAnne Taylor, News On 6

TULSA, OK --  This weekend's Race for the Cure in Tulsa would not happen without the support thousands of volunteers.  And each of those volunteers gives their time for very personal reasons. 

For many, it's a labor of love. 

One of those volunteers is Bob Gastel.  Has very busy this week, getting his paper work in order for the upcoming Race For The Cure. He's been involved since the first Tulsa race back in 1996. 

Things have certainly changed for him since then. He lost both his wife Carol and his sister Ruth to breast cancer. 

"It's hard to put into words, LeAnne. I never want to forget 'em and that's why I have the shirts made up and a little plate for Carol and when people come up to me and I'm so glad that they do, that means they do care and they have not forgotten Carol or Ruthie," said Bob Gastel.

Bob volunteers his time each year during the race. He looks for ways to lend a hand and stay involved in a cause that's so near to his heart.

Bob believes Race For The Cure is a great way to honor the memory of his loved ones but it's also a great way to raise money for the future. 

"Yes, I want to remember Carol and Ruth and all the others who've not survived but going forward looking to the future. Look at all the survivors around here. You're a survivor and we want the best medicine, the best treatments possible and one of these days that cure will be found. And we can do away with all this. We won't need that race any longer," said Bob Gastel. 

In the meantime, there is work to be done and lots of it. There are dozens of jobs that only take a short time to complete when everyone pitches in. 

"Handing our T-shirts, and race information and literature.  If you can't help financially, volunteer your time and that's a great way to support that," Bob Gastel said. 

There's still time for you to get involved.  Race For The Cure is Saturday morning at the CityPlex Towers.  Serious runners hit the streets around 7:45 a.m. and the untimed walk/run is at 9 a.m.

You can even register race morning. 

And if you are at the Race For The Cure, stop by The News On 6 tent and say hello.