"We hold our heads high, standing tall but not standing still. Smiling, though faced with obstacles. Independent, yet deriving strength from togetherness. We would walk forever to overcome breast cancer, though the point of our journey is to shorten the road. Our song is filled with the weight of urgency, yet lifted by the lightness of joy. In the garden of our souls, commitment is tended by optimism. Surprise us in the quiet of our thoughts and you would find us thinking about victory, even when no victory is in sight. Because we are always looking ahead, to a place of health and long life--to the time we all dream of when we may cease our walking and begin to dance."

Friday, September 19, 2008

Lots and Lots and Lots of Thanks!

My goodness, I really am overdue thanking our most recent donors. I'm sorry about that--it's been a crazy, busy week at work, but that's no excuse! I had planned to finally write last night, but a visit to the eye doctor left me with eyes so blurry from drops that I couldn't really see until I woke up this morning. Anyway, without further ado . . .

I owe a huge thank you to Elizabeth and Jason, who have been friends of mine for ages. As I mentioned earlier, this whole adventure began with Elizabeth back in late 1999. Elizabeth's mom also has been a breast cancer survivor for 10 years, and I know that she's as thankful for her mom's health as I am for mine. Participating in the 2000 3-Day with Elizabeth was one of the highlights of my life so far, and I have so many fond memories of those days in early May. Here is a picture of the two of us after we finished the walk--don't we look happy?!? We were so relieved to be done!Second, I want to thank Don and Judy, who are my wonderful uncle and aunt. For years and years, they have supported me in everything that is important to me, and I am so grateful for their donation to our walk. Judy's sister-in-law, Bev, is a breast cancer survivor, and she has just reached the 5-year mark, which is a huge reason to celebrate.

And third, there is my Ashley, my soul twin. Ashley and I have been friends for over a decade, although it's hard for me to imagine that I ever lived without her. Ashley also is the daughter of a breast cancer survivor. It says a lot about the prevalence of this disease that so many of my friends' lives have been touched by it. Although Ashley and her amazing family now live in Fredericksburg and I don't see her as often as we both wish, she's always in my heart, so I have her with me everywhere I go. I am so appreciative for her support today and always.

Finally, my last belated thank you goes to my friend, Hank. Hank and his mom have participated in the breast cancer walk in the past, and he knows first-hand what an fantastic and challenging experience this long-distance walking thing is. I am so thankful for his donation.

And so now, drum roll please . . . .Mom and I have raised SIX THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS! I am in awe of the generosity of our family and friends. We could not do this without you. Happy weekend, everyone!

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