Many residents are getting ready for a big event Saturday in Anchorage. It's the Alaska Run for Women, an event that benefits breast cancer research.

As part of our Cancer Connection series, we introduce you to one family of women who plan to be together at the starting line.

As breast cancer survivor, Joanne Collins, sorts through the bib numbers, she still finds it hard to believe; a surprise visit by all five of her sisters means they will all be together for the race.

"Just to have them all show up and show that they care about me and make this special effort, is just unbelievable," said Joanne Collins.

The sisters have come from far and wide: South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana and Alaska--all to support Joanne. But that's

not so unusual for this family; they have a history of sticking together.

"Besides the six girls, we have five brothers. So whenever we get together, there's at least 15 or 20, so that's a small group," said supportive sister, Jeanne Collins.

And it's not just the Collins girls; there's also the Collins' mom; 88-year-old Kathryn Collins will be walking part of the race, as well.

"Plan to, if someone will help me hobble around," said mom, Kathryn Collins.

That's no problem for these sisters, who take pride in supporting each other.

They say Saturday they'll show that same support to other women, whose lives have been touched by breast cancer.

To contact Lauren, call 907-273-3186.