Experimental breast cancer vaccine gives mother strength

Six months ago, Patty Fitzgerald didn't have the strength to walk around the block.

Reeling from the advanced breast cancer that had spread throughout her body, too weak from chemotherapy treatments to lift her 3-year-old son, she didn't expect to see another birthday.

But yesterday, the Hanover woman was one of hundreds taking part in a 39-mile charity walk from Washington to Silver Spring, sponsored by the Avon Foundation to fund breast cancer research.

"I just thought, 'wouldn't this be a wonderful way to reassure myself that I'm stronger and can make it through?' " said Mrs. Fitzgerald, 53. "Like I'm really...