Before we know it, the cool breezes of autumn will be here, and on Sunday, October 18th, walkers will once again gather at scenic Mountain Lake in Liberty Township to take part in the 2.5- or 5-mile Joan Knechel Memorial Walk (JKMW). The Walk has become a poignant and powerful tradition for many, and its important to note that 100% of ALL proceeds from the Joan Knechel Memorial Walk stay local to benefit the Joan Knechel Cancer Center (JKCC) at Hackettstown Regional Medical Center.

Sponsors are currently being sought, and the Walk committee hopes to draw upwards of 400 walkers again this year to achieve their goal of raising $50,000+. The honorary chairs of this years JKMW are the members of the Schiano family, owners and operators of Mamas Pizza, Caf Baci and Bello Giorno. The Schianos have a strong devotion to the Hackettstown area and a generous spirit when it comes to their neighbors, charities and various organizations.

The Walk is named for Joan Knechel, a former nurse at HRMC and a friend to many in the area. Unfortunately, Joan lost her own brave battle with cancer back in 2002, but her courageous journey through her illness and her positive attitude served as an inspiration to many. Since its opening in the summer of 2005, the Joan Knechel Cancer Center has made a positive impact on the lives of many cancer patients in this region patients who before the opening of the JKCC would have had to travel 45 minutes or more for cancer treatment.

Registration forms are now available, and teams and individuals are welcome. In addition to making pledges to sponsor walkers, there will be an opportunity to purchase a dove for the dove tree or a sign along the walk route to remember and/or honor someone you know who has battled cancer. There will be a special prize drawing for anyone raising $50 or more in pledges. Event day festivities will include food, music and prizes.

Call (908) 850-6836 to receive Walk information, or visit www. hrmcnj.org for the event form, directions or to make an online donation to the JKMW.