Smiles and support

Sounders FC defender Taylor Graham was on hand at the annual Susan G Komen Race for the Cure.

Taylor Graham was a huge hit at last Sunday’s Susan G Koman Race for the Cure in Seattle.

The popular SoundersFC Defender spent the morning signing autographs and greeting walkers and runners at the annual event at Qwest field.

Susan G Koman died of breast cancer at the age of 36 and her surviving sister Nancy Brinker has dedicated her life to the treatment and cure of the disease.

The Koman Puget Sound Affiliate was founded in 1993 as a spinoff from the national organization founded by Nancy Brinker, sister of Susan G Koman, who died of breast cancer at the age of 36.

Since its inception the affiliate has invested more than 18 million in local non profit, tribal and government agencies that provide breast health and breast cancer service to underserved residents of the 16 county service area.

Five year cancer survivor Char Davis, volunteer coordinator for the race was thrilled with this year’s support especially considering the downturn in the economy. "People are still giving, but they’re not giving as much," she said, "Their heart is the same, but they’re strapped a little more."