My passion!

Many of you know my passion for the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer 3 Day. I thought I would take this opportunity to blog about it and my experience this year. (I will post my weight loss info at the end)

In 1999 my Aunt Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer. By 2001 she was still fighting it with treatment and hopes. That was when I heard the radio commercial. Avon was holding a new type of event...no one had done it before. They were challenging people to walk 60 miles in 3 days to raise awareness and funds in the fight against breast cancer. I was just out of college and thought...this is something I have to do. I  immediately picked up my cell phone and registered as a walker for the April 2002 Dallas Fort Worth event. Most people called me crazy when I told them what I was doing. I had to raise $2200 in order to even get the chance to walk. But I was determined to do it so I raise all $2200 dollars and trained for about a week and a half. lol Even though I didn't walk all 60 miles, I was welcomed into a new family that was united in one goal. To find a cure for breast cancer. For those 3 days, I was in a "3 Day bubble" where everyone was happy, motivating, emotional, generous, courageous, patient, loving and bleeding pink. That's where my addiction began.

Unfortunately in 2003, my Aunt Linda lost her battle with breast cancer. She was only 50 years old. So in 2005 when the 3 Day returned to the DFW area (as Susan G Komen) I signed up right away to be a crew member instead of a walker. I was lucky enough to get a Sweep position. The Sweeps drive along the route in passenger vans, cheering on walkers, blaring music and picking up anyone who needs us. Also that first year I was asked to be the captain of the Sweep Team. :) And I haven't stopped since. This year however I was given another reason why I can't stop doing this. My Aunt Mary was diagnosed and is fighting this ugly disease as I type this.

Last weekend I participated in my 8th 3 Day. (7th as the Sweep captain) Each year I get to enjoy 3 full days with my bff Deb, long hours, sleeping in a tent, showering in a trailer and helping walkers make it to the closing ceremonies. Deb and I are already signed up for next year. Our plan is to switch it up in 2013 and become walkers! :)

With all this said, I actually lost weight over the 3 Day! This came as a surprise to me since the 3 Day has a snack called Graham Snackers aka my kryptonite. It's a peanut butter and grape jelly graham cracker sandwich. It's the devil. lol  So 2 more lbs are gone! I'm at 203... SO CLOSE TO ONEDERLAND!!!!