By MICHAEL SCHMIEMAN | Forum Publishing Group
February 21, 2008

The first leg of a million-mile journey to raise money for breast cancer research began recently in Coconut Creek. It started with a daylong kickoff celebration at Vista Motor Company, 4401 W. Sample Road, as 25 drivers fired up specially marked BMWs decorated with pink ribbons.

Hundreds of local supporters are driving a BMW of their choice across the country and will raise $1 for every mile they drive.

The drive, beginning in Coconut Creek, goes across the country to Southern California and then heads back east to South Carolina by Dec. 13.

"The BMW Ultimate Drive is a grassroots fundraising program that gives community members the opportunity to be proactive in the fight against breast cancer," said Emily Brand, public relations executive. "The event had a fleet of 25 specially marked BMWs for anyone to drive during the event, including dozens of breast cancer survivors, local supporters and volunteers.

This is the 12th year BMW has sponsored the event, said Angeli Gianchandani, BMW's national events marketing manager.

"It definitely is a grassroots event that touches people's hearts," she said. "It gives us a chance to honor a local hero and, at the same time, raise money for a good cause."

Cancer survivor Cristina Chediak was honored as a local hero during the ceremony for her dedication and commitment. Chediak, a Miami native whose cancer was diagnosed in 2000, has continued to volunteer in numerous activities for Gilda's Club, a South Florida nonprofit cancer support group, throughout her chemotherapy treatments.

The goal of the drive is to raise $1 million during the 11-month journey, bringing the 12-year total to $12 million. During the journey, drivers will stop at 210 BMW centers throughout the nation. Proceeds from the journey go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a nonprofit organization that supports breast cancer research, education, screening and community outreach programs.

"I hope all of this dedication, work and support ends eventually with a cure for breast cancer," Chediak said.