Local women team up to make strides with Avon Walk

VERNON — Three women from the Northwestern New Jersey area will be working together in support of the Avon Walk taking place Oct. 10 and 11 in New York City. The event consists of walking the equivalent of a marathon and a half and brings together thousands of breast cancer survivors and their supporters. When Marcy Turkington, president of Achieve Business Solutions, was approached by her friend Colleen McLaughlin to do the walk, she immediately agreed. “I’ve had so many friends and family who have been such models of strength, courage and generosity in going through their battles with breast cancer. It is a small token of tribute to them - so I was thrilled when Colleen asked. Of course, that was before I started training!” she said. The effort involves major physical training and fundraising. To assist with those efforts, a third friend, Rose Ann Brennan, who owns Mill Creek Boutique in Vernon, decided she’d take a unique approach. “I was unable to do the walk this year, but wanted to do something that would help get the word out while raising funds for this important cause.” She developed a special matching gift program for area donors. All donations received at the store will be matched. To be eligible, donations must be received by Oct. 5. Call or visit The Mill Creek Boutique, 514 Route 515, Vernon; 973 764-2552.