Many of you know that I have become a regular participant in the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day. Every year since 2009 I have committed to walking 60 miles over 3 days, and raising a minimum of $2300 (and more for my team).

At some point every year I feel overwhelmed by my commitment as it requires a great deal of time to train and fundraise; but then I am humbled by the all-too-large number of  people who have been affected by cancer and I find even more reasons to get my walk on.

I choose to walk in this particular event because breast cancer has affected me and my circle of family and friends profoundly; but a lot of other kinds of cancers have had that same profound affect on my loved ones – so I walk in solidarity and support for all of those affected by cancers nasty grasp.  

I walk because of the growing number of names I carry with me. Every name represents a special relationship that myself and/or one of my friends holds in their hearts.  I walk because it allows me to choose hope.

I walk because if I am not “training” for something, I won’t consistently give myself the time needed to exercise. It is easy to be last on the to-do list which means it is a little too easy to put it off till tomorrow. The 3-Day has given me a way to commit to my own well being while simultaneously  giving something positive back to the universe.

I walk because the 3-Day embodies a spirit of kindness that I am addicted to. It has healing properties previously unknown to me. I walk because joining a large group of women on a mission packs a power unmatched by any arsenal; and men who aren’t afraid to be swept away by said women display chivalry not often seen in today’s world and I love every part of it.

I walk because I needed a way to honor my loved ones and the loved ones of my friends and family. I walk because I can. Recently, I met two new reasons to walk. I have been introduced to two very special individuals with cancer stories of their own that need to be shared.

Meet Donna. Her mama, AKA Mary Tyler Mom chronicled Donna’s Cancer Story which appeared daily in serial format through the month of September to recognize Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Each post covered one month of Donna’s 31 months of treatment. I cannot find adequate words to describe how amazing this little girl is and how deeply she has has touched my heart. She has been such a gift to this world and every day her legacy lives on through Donna’s Good Things. Both Donna and Mary Tyler Mom (et al) have taught me a great deal about facing our own family’s adversity with grace, and a thousand good reasons to always choose hope.

“I refuse to let life’s challenges fuel my excuses. I will instead embrace my adversity, adapt to my circumstances, and use this moment as the catalyst for making the lives of others around me better. I will never stop fighting forward.” – Dustin Hughes

Meet Dustin. Dustin was recently diagnosed with GBM an incurable form of brain cancer. He is 35 years old with 3 beautiful boys and an amazing circle of family and friends. While Dustin has been busy kicking cancer’s a$$, he has also managed to give us boundless inspiration because of his stellar attitude and his open and humble heart. Check out this awesome video (check side panel or this link): Blink of a Moment and consider joining the Hughes Troop army on Facebook. You will be sooooooo glad you did.

For the angels who watch over us
For warriors who fight so heroically
For the Survivors who stand in our circle

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

If any Portland folks are on the West side over the next few weeks – stop by and EAT for a CURE!!!

Monday Oct 10th: Beaverton Burgerville **Tuesday Oct. 11th: Aloha/Tanasbourne Burgerville ** Wednesday Oct. 12th: Scholls & Allen Burgerville**Wednesday Oct. 19th: Hillsboro Burerville.From 5-8pm 10% of all proceeds will go towards my teams SGK 3-day fundraising efforts! Let’s make 1 in 8, NONE in 8!!!