Hundreds take part in ‘Our Colors Run Together’ 5K run

Hundreds walked together to find a cure for something that affects nearly all of us.

It was for the second-annual Run Together 5K For All Colors of Cancer.

“It hurts, you know, it hurts,” kidney cancer survivor Maria Ortiz said. “But at the same time, I see everybody here and it gives you — your spirits get up higher.”

Firefighter Juan Rodriguez did the 5K carrying his fire gear. His oxygen tank and helmet were painted pink in honor of his mother, Hilda Pena Rodriguez, who is a breast cancer survivor.

“It means everything. She’s the strongest woman I know,” Rodriguez said. “This is nothing compared to what she’s done and what she’s been through, and what she’s taught me.”

Crossing the finish line was something that Pena Rodriguez could not have pictured years ago.

“I tried to make it, but I couldn’t. I was so weak going through chemotherapy,” Pena Rodriguez said. “But the following year, i was here with him, running next to him.”

The run was organized by the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation. Every dollar raised stays in the El Paso area.

“I did the one mile. Hopefully — no I pledge — next year i’ll do the 5K,” Ortiz said.