These Walks

LIAM THINKS PINK

We did the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk Sunday, October 16, 2011. Third straight year for NEPSC Retirees.
http://www.newsday.com/long-island/jones-beach-breast-cancer-walk-raises-2-9m-1.3252428
I think the Breast Cancer walks might be the most numerous of all the walks. They take place in so many cities during October.
When I see the color pink all I think about is breast cancer. That would be a successful association on the part of all who organize, market, and participate.   I know there are colors for other cancers. Unfortunately, I  have gotten to know some of them this year.  See link for some cancer colors
http://www.chemoangels.net/angels%20corner/Sub%20Folders/cancer_colors.htm

Too much pink? 

I have read some articles recently and heard some remarks about overuse of pink.  Like, enough already, we get it.  They say we are abusing pink just to sell stuff. Yes, it sells and part goes to cancer research, awareness and counseling and more. You can read all that is done on any cancer website, I do not have to say it.

Why the walks?

I am sure that you can read many statements from those walking as to why they walk.  They are all over the news this month.

I know that when Paul and I reached the turnoff for parking fields at Jones beach and I saw the huge wildly flapping pink flag, my eyes filled with tears. It happens every time.
I know I cannot prove to the doubters that the money raised this past Sunday will cure cancer.

WINDY WALK

I only know how I feel and think about these walks.

I feel pride in all who come out to honor, support and remember their friends and family and strangers.  The sense of sharing and unity is electric. You feel connected.  And let's face it, everyone thinks he/she might get  cancer.

Seeing survivors feels very good. 

Remembering those gone feels comforting.

I think sharing stories soothes pain.

Think I would much rather give money to a walker than put it in an envelope to an organization.

And the thrill of getting a donation! Woo hoo. You see the email and it just makes your day. It says, "someone has made a donation"   It is like getting a present.  Then you scroll down to see who it is and just are so grateful to that person for doing it. I feel emotional every time. Never gets old.

You see kids and parents walking. 

Kids wrapped in pink blankets to ward off the chill.

When I was growing up, you did not mention breast cancer; people got sick and died and no one talked about it.  

Kids did not know what happened to their parent or relative.

I feel that the stigma of getting it and the fear of checkups are lessened by the "pinking"

LIAM  IN MY GIFT SCARF-- PART OF COST TO THE CAUSE

Don't we root for teams?  It is the pack mentality.  Dogs know the power of the pack.

Why walk? Too much pink?

2.9 million was raised in the largest breast cancer walk in the country on that day Oct 16, 2011.

Walk, Walk