As an assistant vice president at Bank of America, Kathie Mitchell of Peabody has a demanding job. But she has faced bigger challenges.

In 2001, she was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer, the most advanced stage of cancer growth. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy, which put the cancer in remission. It had, however, spread to her liver and she continues treatment.

Still, Mitchell has taken on the role of chairwoman for Sunday's 17th annual North Shore Medical Center Cancer Walk in Salem, as well as leading a team of 120 walkers with a fund-raising goal of $25,000.

Registration on the day of the 6.2-mile walk will begin at 7:30 a.m., with a rolling start at 8 a.m. It begins and ends at Salem Willows Park.

Proceeds from the walk benefit the North Shore Medical Center Cancer Center in Peabody, where Mitchell receives care.

"I'll never be able to fully repay the cancer center," Mitchell said. "It's a wonderful place. They show such compassion and make such an effort. You always feel like you're their only patient."

As for the walk: "The primary message is this: Cancer touches everyone in some way. We need to fund research to fight it and bring the latest technology and treatments closer to our communities. Every single person on the North Shore should raise money and do the walk."

To sponsor Team Kathie Mitchell, visit www.firstgiving.com/kathiemitch2. To make a general donation or register for the walk, call 866-296-6900 or visit www.nsmccancerwalk.org.