Puget Sound Race for the Cure 2008

The Bosom Buddies of Ballard, including Ashley and I, completed the Puget Sound Race for the Cure. 14,500 people participated and raised about $1.65 million. Thanks to everyone who supported us and all of you who gave donations. Rosemary exceeded her fundraising target by about 50%. Whoohoo!!! We had so much fun taking part in this amazing event. I found myself experiencing waves of joy and sadness discovering the stories around me of those celebrating the lives of survivors or walking in memory of loved ones who have been lost to this disease.

Having Ashley complete this with me added such a tender note. Just as with Caitlin, during the Seattle Kids Marathon last year, I'm reminded how we serve as role models for our children, often without realizing that we do so. She was so thrilled to spend this "special day" with me and kept holding my hand and smiling up at me as we walked. She asked questions about Breast Cancer and related it to our experience with our friend Christian, who is a cancer survivor. After the walk we went into the stadium and explored the booths set up inside. She was fascinated with one booth that had fake breast pads that mimic the feel of breasts that contain lumps. They were designed to demonstrate what to look for when performing breast exams. What a way to incorporate life lessons at an early age, with the joy of community, rather than just the fear of the disease.

Sweet comments that she shared with me as we walked that I'll always remember: "I'm so glad that you're my mammy" and "I'm so glad that we're walking this together".

More photos of the event when you click the link (picture) below:

Race for the Cure 2008