On Oct. 19, the Campaign Against Hunger (TCAH) and several other community organizations sponsored the 8th Annual Trina Williams Far Rockaway Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness Walk.
Melissa Harris started doing the walk with her from the beginning. Community activist Lisa M. George and TCAH board Vice Chair Annie Mohan joined her to plan it about 4-5 years ago. According to Harris, “Williams was a very private person and, therefore, did not share her cancer journey with many. However, I worked with her at the same school for two years (2008-2010), and we became friends then.”
They had participated in the Breast Cancer Walk at Jones Beach for many years with Harris’ Girl Scout Troop. Harris shared that it wasn’t until seven years later, in 2017, when Williams mentioned doing a local Breast Cancer Walk in NYC.
“In a conversation, Williams said, ‘Why don’t we have a walk in Far Rockaway?,’ and this is when we began to plan the first Far Rockaway walk,” Harris said. “She was a very jovial person, she loved to have fun and cared about the well-being of her students and those around her,” she added.
In addition, Harris explained that the experience of connecting with those who’ve experienced breast cancer and those with loved ones who’ve experienced breast cancer, or other types of cancer, has been phenomenal.
“Having the Far Rockaway community out each year, walking in memory of loved ones, is moving, and it drives me to want to continue to do the walk each year. There are so many problems our community faces, and by getting together to raise awareness and funds for this important cause, we can make a difference,” she stated.
Additionally, Harris shared what Williams was passionate about as a social worker. She stated, “This walk brings together people who care about the same cause, and it gives you a chance to share your thoughts and discuss ideas with like-minded people in a positive and relaxed setting.”
By hosting this walk each year, Harris hopes to have created something that will outlive her and continue for years to come, as it brings together people and fosters community involvement.
Discussing what she wants her legacy to be in life, Harris says she plans to continue working hard in social work, particularly in “mentoring younger generations to get involved in community advocacy & community work.”
She also hopes that the contributions and the difference she is making in the world has a long lasting effect even after she is gone from it..
