Hope Breast Cancer Walk Founder Ethel Precht Dies

Gotta say when I heard the news this morning, I couldn't help but think of her smile and how much I will miss seeing it.  With deepest regrets KPLC-TV reports Ethel Precht has died.  She was 79 years old.  There is no doubt in my mind where she is right now.  She was such a genuine and giving person, and I am truly grateful that I had to pleasure of knowing her.  Ethel was an angel here on earth for many residence.  She was a breast cancer survivor, and spent her second chance at life paying it forward...literally.  Precht founded the Lake Charles HOPE Breast Cancer Walk 13 years ago, and gave away every dime of the proceeds to local cancer patients.  As we all know cancer treatment isn't cheap, with or without insurance, services or prosthetics are through the roof.

That's where her nonprofit foundation would come in.  She would help people make their ends meet, paying for everything from gas, hotel stays, to food, medical and utility bills, you name it.  This is how she lived her life.  She gave back.  The HOPE Breast Cancer Walk went from a couple hundred, to more than 4,000 participants every October.

According to reports her family made the announcement of her passing.  Her granddaughter, Molly Precht, spoke about the impact her grandmother made on our community telling KPLC-TV,

"I understand she was an inspiration to the community but honestly, the most important was she was a loving and caring grandmother.  Her heart was the last to go because she had such a strong one and a big one."

The HOPE Breast Cancer Foundation board of directors stated that Precht passed from diabetes complications on Tuesday, June 6, 2017.  Funeral arrangements are pending. For a complete statement see the Ethel Precht HOPE Foundation Facebook page.

She was a special human being, and on behalf of The Peoples Station 107 Jamz/Townsquare Media, we offer our deepest condolences to her family and friends. She will be missed, but never forgotten.  Ethel was a fighter and a go-getter.  Her legacy will live on through her foundation, and continue the donations she began so long ago. Speaking of which, though it will never be the same, her annual walk will as well.

Save the date!  Now in her sweet memory the 13th Annual HOPE Breast Cancer Walk will take place Saturday, October 21, at the Lake Charles Civic Center.  See you there!