The 2009 Michigan Breast Cancer 3-Day is over. The memories will last forever.
Others, I met during training walks. Some were acquaintances prior to the walk. And some others are the people nearest and dearest to me—my mom, my aunt, my sister-in-law and some of my best and oldest friends. Sharing this experience together takes all of these relationships to a much deeper level.
If you have ever thought of walking the Breast Cancer 3-Day (now called the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the cure) but just didn’t think you could do it, trust me, you can. If you live in Michigan, join us next year. If you are in another state, grab some friends and don’t wait another day to sign up. If you can’t walk, crew or volunteer. You will thank me later.
We have to do this for so many reasons. But I think 5-year old Samantha Dubin summed it up so well when she returned from a cheering section and said to her brother Josh.
”The women are walking now, so they will save my boobs later.”
I went to a cheering station, to cheer on my niece & sister in law. The cheering section ended up being the most emotional experience that I have ever encountered. The men & woman that looked as if they couldn’t take another step, but somehow did. The walkers, that were fighting the heat & humidity,heat exhaustion, & aching muscles, were THANKING us for coming to cheer them on……..
WALKERS YOU ARE AMAZING! Words, or tears, cannot express my gratitude to each & everyone of you…..
Mary
August 17, 2009 at 7:28 pm
I was there this weekend – a member of the crew. We were the ones rockin out to welcome you back into camp each day (that was me with the inflatable guitar). I cannot thank you enough for walking, there are just no words. 5 years ago I lost my very best friend to breast cancer. I will do this event until I can look her girls in the face and tell them there is nothing to be afraid of.
You walkers are my heroes. You have given of yourselves in amazing ways. I heard the most amazing stories this weekend (and every other year I have been involved) and my heart is forever changed!
Bless you for taking a stand … and a few million steps … against breast cancer!!
Becky Jo
August 17, 2009 at 7:40 pm
Hi Ellyn,
It’s Shari Finsilver, reading your blog.
I donated to a few of your TaTa teammates. I was excited to read “your article” in the FREEP, so I figured I’d “look you up.”
Mazel tov on all the wonderful work you’re doing to increase awareness & raise funds. It’s truly fabulous.
I also have a WordPress blog. Great, isn’t it? (www.finsilver.com)
If you ever want to read about social media marketing, go to ryanspoon.com/blog. My nephew is an expert & has 15K followers … also on Twitter. Might be interesting for you.
Continue to stay well!!!
Shari
finsilver
August 17, 2009 at 7:50 pm
I am crying just reading this Ellyn. Can’t wait for a three-peat!! Best experience ever. And yes, I too am drinking a cup of coffee right now! Cheers!
Karyn Bylinowski
August 17, 2009 at 8:28 pm
You said it so well. I have also been reduced to tears but tears of joy. I am so joyful that last year i discovered the 3day walk and this year i will be walking for my second time. Thank You!
Karen Radtke
August 17, 2009 at 8:36 pm
This was my 3rd time and it seems to get easier each time. I still spent 30 minutes balling my eyes out in the remembrance tent as usual. My two little girls summed it up beautifully with the sign my mom helped them make that read “Our mommy walks so we won’t have to!” God Bless everyone.
Katherine Guc
August 18, 2009 at 1:38 am
I love hearing everyone’s experiences. Thanks for sharing them with me. And thanks for checking out my blog.
ellynd
August 18, 2009 at 3:28 am