Quote of the Day: When we walk together, no one has to walk alone.
I’m in a community group called the Mothers of Multiples (MOMS). One of our own developed breast cancer last fall. Colleen, pictured above, is 41, has a 13-year-old daughter and triplets who just turned eight. Hers is inflammatory breast cancer, which is not a lump, but first appears as a rash or bumpy skin. At first, she was treated for rash, given anti-biotics, and topical creams, but they did nothing. As her condition worsened, she got more assertive, and was diagnosed early in December.
You need to be diligent. Anything that seems unusual or painful needs to be taken care of. Listen to your intuition. Early detection saves lives.
This was my first time walking in the Komen Brainerd lakes Race for the Cure, and I was team captain of MOMS for MAMS in support of Colleen. I also volunteered to help with registration. Might as well jump right in! I liked this gal’s hat.
The Race has turned into a huge community event. Over 2000 people walked or ran, and many more volunteered, or just came to support someone they love.
Colleen is in the bright pink survivor t-shirt, surrounded by her family, and several of the MOMS behind her. I misted up more than once as I witnessed people getting out and giving their support financially, physcially, and emotionally to people affected by breast cancer.
These folks were walking for their dad/husband. Don’t forget that men can get breast cancer, too.
There’s always someone with a sense of humor!
Colleen said that much of the money we raise for this walk stays in the community and that she’s already felt the benefits. We have a Pink Ribbon Cupboard that provides things like gas cards, money to pay bills, insurance, and other support.
MOMS for MAMS
Collen with her triplets who are tired after their long walk, her mom on the end, her husband, nephew, and sister-in-law.
Colleen is celebrating her last round of chemo next Tuesday. It’s been a rough road, but we’re praying that all the efforts, sickness, surgeries, and treatment will pay off and that she’ll have many happy, healthy years watching her kids grow. Here’s Colleen’s blog, News from Up North, if you’d like to send her some good wishes.
Journaling Prompt: Have you ever participated in a cause walk? Do you know someone with breast cancer, or are you a survivor? How have you, or your community, shown support?
What a neat, neat story.
Kudos to you, Mary, for standing up to this dreaded disease. May karma bless you many times over.
Best-
Mary–Thanks for support in this ugly race!! It’s people like you, that give us the courage! Great pics!
What an amazing story. May there be victory.
Beautiful post Mary. Our family has walked that event beside my mom as she had breast cancer and is a survivor. You are a joyful ray in the journey!
I love these pics, Mary. Y’all rocked the world. Thanks for introducing us to Colleen. I will visit her, Mary. <3
From the photos, it looks like it was a beautiful day … Lots of sunshine and uplifting spirits all around. I second Alex’s thought … Victory to all 🙂
I haven’t- yet! I long too, and when able, I know I will! How awesome to see you all supporting Colleen, it makes such a different in your course of treatment and to see you all participating like this brings tears to my eyes!
What a wonderful thing to do, Mary. I have a friend’s mom who is battling her second round of breast cancer, so this hits home. Thank you.
Karen
A great story and amazing post! you guys did good…
What a worthwhile cause. We need cures!
that is touching. I got misty-eyed too.
and I had no idea that men can get it! I guess it makes sense.
Triplets! Oh my heck!
Sending my best wishes to Colleen.
A good cause to be together – he support from friends and relatives is so comforting and vital. All the best to Colleen.
My grandmother had breast cancer at 40, and my stepmother, and friends. I remember when no one talked about it, as if it were a secret, and I’m glad there are walks now.