This is my first blog here, so it's a bit daunting. I feel like whatever I write here will set the tone. I'm probably putting too much pressure on myself - shock - but anyways, that's how I work.
Perhaps it's best to keep things simple and to the point, and then future postings will allow me to expand on things as they progress.
This blog isn't meant to be a lifetime project. It is meant to be a way of journalling my perspective on reaching a goal by September 2010.
Let me backtrack a bit. Since 2000, I've been actively involved in annual Terry Fox Runs. I've always been a big believer in the value of cancer research - for the cure but also for research for prevention. Prevention is primary, but the cure is also crucial until tried and true prevention can be found.
Everyone knows someone who has been touched by cancer - either diagnosed themselves or through a loved one. For the last decade, that person was my grandmother who fought and beat two forms of cancer and is still going strong at almost 91 years old. She is a good example of how successful cancer treatment can be.
In late April 2010, things changed. They changed in my family and they changed for me personally. My youngest cousin, Meghan, at only 28 years, lost a hard fought battle to breast cancer. To say it is unfair, to say it doesn't make sense, is only scraping the surface.
When Meg was just a baby, I was with her at our family cottage when she took her very first steps. She let go of the coffeetable she was holding onto and took her first steps to me. It was an important moment in both our young lives. I was such a proud cousin that day. Meg continued to make me a proud cousin throughout her life.
Now that Meg is no longer with us, I'm taking some steps for her - 60 kms worth of steps. Steps she should have been able to take herself. I plan to make her proud.
On September 11 & 12, 2010, I will be taking part in the 60 km Walk to End Women's Cancer, and I've selected that all the funds I raise will go specifically to research and treatment for breast cancer. I think Meg would like that.
I've done lots of fundraising walks, I've done a bit of globetrotting, mountain hikes (including Mount Fuji) and goodness, I easily do about 5km every day simply walking my bouncy dog, Kawaii. Admittedly, I've never done 60 km (at 30 kms per day), but I'll do it.
My friend and co-worker, Glenda, and I have formed a walking team named after a Facebook page created for and with my cousin, For the Love of Meghan.
This blog is meant to record how things progress as Glenda and I fund raise, train and get ready for the September 11 &12, 2010 weekend. Today is May 8, so we have a few months to get things done.
I hope you will help to support us in this goal, and I'll keep you posted as things progress.
Let's get walking!
Lisa
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