Linda bought each one of my teammates our pink bling lanyard for the Walk. 🙂

True confessions. I skip over many of the emails with advice for planning for the 3-Day, 60-Mile Walk for the Cure.

As I plan for my team’s 12th anniversary, I think – been there – done that.

It’s easy to take the steps for granted.

• I know what training works for me
• I know what to carry on the Walk
• I know how to fundraise

What I don’t know how to do is stop. There is so much more to do.

I just hung up the phone with a friend I have known for nearly 40 years. Linda has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Cancer is not done yet and neither am I.

Cancer Changes the Script

I’ve shared my story. My sister, Terry, is a breast cancer survivor and the inspiration behind this journey.

Before my sister’s diagnosis, I did not personally know anyone who had breast cancer. Since my first walk in 2003, that part of the story changed.

• In 2003, I met teammate, Sue, a breast cancer survivor, who walked with her sister, Diane, and her friend, Penny
• In 2004, my new-found teammates missed the Walk because Penny had developed breast cancer
• In 2008, Martina, also a breast cancer survivor, joined our team
• In 2015, my friend Linda, who I stay with when I return to my former San Diego home, is diagnosed with breast cancer

Not to mention the countless loved ones of my contributors who have been hit by cancer.

None of this was in the script. This is a Walk for the Cure.

Cancer changes the script. But those of us who participate in the 3-Day event – walkers, crew, volunteers, and most of all – our contributors – share one goal.

Cancer will not change the happy ending of this script – Finding a Cure.

Walk on.