Last weekend Justin, my mom, and I did the annual "Race for the Cure" for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Its a 5k walk/run that we do with the whole fam ever since I was diagnosed. Last year we had a whole entourage show up, but this year we procrastinated a little and only the 3 of us could make it. No matter, it was awesome as usual! For those of you who do not know about this race, it is incredible. Thousands of people show up to the Gateway Mall at 8:00am in the morning to show their support for family and friends who have battled breast cancer. This year we hit a record with 20,000 people! The experience is indescribable. The foundation provides pink signs for everyone to pin on their backs with the words "In Memory of" or "In Celebration of" and then you can write someones name on it who has battled breast cancer - mothers, daughters, grandmothers, etc. Some people write some pretty hilarious things on them too. I think the best one I saw was on some guy's back that said "In Celebration of...Boobs!" And people get seriously decked out for this thing! Pink Boas, tutus, fairy wings, and anything crazy and pink they can find. There are all kinds of signs and t-shirts that people wear. My favorite T-Shirt said "Save Second Base," and Justin wore his "Save the Ta-Tas" t-shirt. We also ran into the "Prostate Posse." Seriously the coolest old guys I have ever seen. 90-year-olds, all wearing blue, with makeshift horses around their waists, cowboy hats and boots, all walking the race together. I love it!
After the race is over, they do a Survivor Parade and all of us survivors walk around the grounds to Amazing Grace being played on the bagpipes. We end up on the stairs by the water fountains where dozens of white doves are released into the sky. Its a very emotional moment for everyone present.
Its difficult to get through the experience without tearing up and reflecting on my life and the gift I have been given of a second chance. I am so lucky to be alive and healthy and to be able to have a sweet husband to share the rest of my life experiences with. I can't say enough how grateful I am for an AMAZING husband!!! I remember the first year I did this race, and let me tell you, its much different now! I am so grateful for my mother too. She and Justin share the spot as my number 1 fans. They, along with the rest of my family, are always right by my side and would do anything and everything for me. Thank you loves!
Here's to all the strong women who have battled this disease
To their courage through the treatment
To their bravery during times of uncertainty
To their laughter amidst the tears
To their strength along the journey
We see the fear
We experience the pain
We feel the heartache
And we know the sadness
But we see the beauty
We embrace the blessings
We feel the Joy
And we WILL find a Cure
