I Strode For Life

For years I have watched newscasts of people who were on a charity walk, and I have always wanted to join them.  It looked as if the people who were participating were having a wonderful time while they were supporting a good cause.  I also have known many women that I love dearly - sisters, friends, coworkers, and sisters-in-the-Lord - who have suffered from breast cancer.  I have always wished that I could do something for these women while they fought and suffered through their surgery and treatment.  In September I learned of the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in Rochester, which sounded as though it would fit my needs exactly.  I organized a team of coworkers and friends, and we began to raise funds for the walk.

In my mind the walk took place on the picture perfect fall day in upstate New York.  I would be walking along under bright blue skies while a cool breeze fluttered the flags and the mums would be blooming in beautiful fall colors.  I would be laughing and chatting with my fellow walkers as we strode along for the cause.  When the weather forecast called for light showers ending in the morning, I thought that would be nice.  After all, Kevin Williams would never lie to me about the weather.  As I headed toward Frontier Field (trying to remember the map so that I could find it), the skies darkened and the rain increased.  No problem - it was supposed to stop.

Well, the rain did not stop.  As a matter of fact, it increased once again.  The flash mob that I was excited about joining turned out to be dancers on the stage that I could not see because of the sea of umbrellas.  When we started to walk, it seemed more like swimming than walking at the time.  Rather than chatting, many of us were hiding under umbrellas (the smart ones, not me), or had our heads buried as far as possible in our coats.  By the time I got done with the walk and to my car, I was soaked through and my fingers were so cold - due to the 46 degree temperature - that I could barely untie my shoes to change into dry ones.  It took me a hot shower, dry sweats, a big sweater, and soup to feel warm again.

Was it a miserable time?  Sort of.  Would I do it again?  Without a doubt. I joined 8700 people who raised $805,000.00 to fight a terrible disease and to help those who are suffering from it.  I had fun with coworkers and friends.  I have several funny stories to tell and some funny pictures to show everyone.  But most of all, I spent my time surrounded  by ladies who were carrying pink roses.  These roses were given to the survivors who took part in the walk.  These are ladies who endured surgery, chemo, radiation, pain, sorrow, and fear and who survived to be stronger than when they began their journey with breast cancer.  These ladies fill me with awe and respect, and I am proud to say that I spent part of the day in their company.

I am hoping for sun next year, but I will be there no matter what the weather.