NEW IBERIA, La. (KLFY) -- The 8th annual Walking with a Purpose event in New Iberia was held to bring hope and encouragement to cancer patients and their families.

"I never thought I'd see 18 minutes, let alone 18 years. It was rough but with the good Lord I survived, and I put everything in his hands, and here I am 18 years later," said Sheriba Alexander, Grand Marshal for the cancer walk.

Participants of the annual cancer walk wore the color pink, to symbolize hope and solidarity for those diagnosed with cancer. The event began at West End Park in New Iberia and ended at West Pershing Street. People walked and rode in cars and on motorcycles.

Breast cancer survivor Sheriba Alexander was named the Grand Marshal because of her inspiring journey of surviving cancer spanning over two decades. Alexander's daughter, Lakindra Williams, said her mother represents their family.

"My mom is the oldest of five children and she lost her baby sister from breast cancer. So to have my mom here to represent means a lot," Williams said.

Alexander said new technology in cancer treatment has increased the chances of diagnosed patients surviving their battle. She encourages cancer patients to remain hopeful that they will overcome the disease.

"With new technology today, a lot of us are surviving. I would like to tell them, 'Hey, keep going, keep praying. I'm a good example. I did it, I'm still doing it. Keep praying,'" Alexander said.

Alexander and Williams said detecting cancer early is important because it can save lives.

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