The 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk

was awesome. A crowd of approximately 1,800 -- men and women, mostly women, of various ages, athletic ability, and health. There was a 90 year old woman and her 65 year old daughter, cancer patients, and survivors. Some in shape, and some out of shape. A woman being pushed along the route in a wheelchair by her husband. Diffferent people all there for a common goal -- to spread awareness after fundraising $4.7 million for research and treatment. And that was just the amount raised for the Michigan walk. Other walks could generate even more to help fund research and treatment for all. I only wish that there could be walks for other diseases, since Breast Cancer is by no means the only one or most important out there. It was exhilerating, however, to be a part of it -- despite the damage I did to my IT band while trying to maintain my little sister's demanding pace -- a cross country maniac of 7 years. Walk through the pain! The faster you go, the better it will feel! THAT only lasted thirty miles before I had her continue on her own while I limped at my pace with my right leg wrapped and taped in an attempt to hold my IT band in place. The next time I do something like this...it will be in strides my short legs can do!! Also learned: the way sports medicine guys examine wounded limbs has convinced me that they must have been torturers for the Inquisition in a past life. Of course it feels better once your fingers stop splitting my muscle apart!! ....I have to give them credit though...the medical crew worked harder than almost anyone else. Especially given the medical condition of some of those walking. Gotta hand it to the volunteer crew and staff who fed and refreshed, cheered and supported us thoughout the weekend. Great people. I am so glad to have experienced it. Maybe I can convince someone to walk with me somewhere next year.... :-)