Despite a cloudy day in Los Angeles, over 70,000 people gathered at the LA Memorial Coliseum to participate in the 8th annual Revlon Run/Walk for Women. The NY and LA events have been an enormous success, with both celebrating significant increases in participants this year.

A grey, foggy Los Angeles morning didn't deter the hordes of determined Run/Walk-ers.
As the opening ceremony began, host Dylan McDermott greeted the crowd with a warm welcome on a slightly chilly morning. Melanie Griffith spoke of the difficulties of loving someone who is sick, and shared that she’s dealing with her father’s struggle with emphysema. Run/Walk co-founder Lilly Tartikoff took the stage with thanks and praise to all the accomplishments the participants have helped bring about. "For the past eight years we have dragged you out of bed and the good news is you have made a difference," she lauded. "We have promised that science would get better, and it has!"

Tracey Ullman didn't let the excitement distract her from her pre-Run stretching.
Then Dr. John Glaspy took the stage, offering some of the advancements made in breast and ovarian cancer research. Afterwards, two survivors -- one of breast cancer, one of ovarian cancer -- shared their inspiring stories of recovery. Special Guest Megan Mullally, from Will & Grace, was on hand to inspire the crowd with a rousing rendition of "Amazing Grace."

Sean Young had a personal reason for joining the Run/Walk.
The disease has personally affected many of the celebrities who donated their time to the Run/Walk. Christina Applegate has participated in the event for many years. Because her mother is a survivor of breast cancer, she understands the need for research and treatment. David Arquette, who led the racers by driving the starting line car, lost his mother to breast cancer in 1997. Sean Young dedicated her participation to her grandmother, who died of breast cancer in 1993.

Revlon spokesperson Karen Duffy participated in both the New York and Los Angeles Walks.
Walkers and runners alike were congratulated for their victory after the race was over with refreshments and the musical talents of Carnie & Wendy Wilson and Beach Boy Al Jardine. The performers delighted the crowd with some Beach Boy classics and a few Wilson Phillips hits.

Over the years, the Revlon Run/Walk has raised over $17 million dollars for much needed funds for research, education and programs for women with breast and ovarian cancers. Not only was this year’s event a success, but also a wonderful time for all involved.
For more information about both the Los Angeles and New York Revlon Run/Walks for Women, please visit their website.
Missed out on previous stories? Check out our archive:
Winning the Race Against Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Committed to a Cure, By Melanie Griffith
New Yorkers take to the Streets for Ovarian and Breast Cancers
Melanie & Lilly's Chat Transcript!
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Photo Credits:
Headline images: Gregg DeGuire/WireImage.com; Karen Duffy, Sean Young, Walkers, Lilly Tartikoff (back), Confetti: Hannah Lee/OneWorldLive.com; Tracey Ullman, Coliseum sign: Martine Williamson/Revlon