What did you do this weekend?

Me, I walked. Sixty miles in three days – raising money and awareness for breast cancer, via the Susan G. Komen foundation.  I walked in memory of an aunt, who lost her battle with breast cancer in June 2010. I walked in honor of all the women who have battled breast cancer and won. And I walked in the hopes that no other women (or men) in my life will have to fight this disease. I walked for early detection, for education, and for new treatments.

And today, as I nurse my blisters, sore muscles, and inflamed knees – I don’t regret a minute of it. All of it, totally worth it. I was so inspired by the people around me, by the folks who came out to cheer us on, by the survivors and by the women currently undergoing treatment that walked as far as they could. The sisters, daughters, sons, and husbands who walked. The children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. So many people touched by breast cancer, how could I not walk?

One in eight women will develop breast cancer, but it’s over 90% curable when detected early; and yet, it is still the leading cause of cancer death among women age 20 to 59 – clearly there is still a great need for education and awareness.

All along the three days we were supported, cheered, and led safely across busy streets by a fleet of volunteers and Seattle Police Officers. Everyone dressed for the occasion.

A great crew kept us fed, watered, bandaged, and most importantly – providing us with coffee at the crack of dawn.

We were fortunate to have pretty good weather for the first two days. Morning clouds burned off and we walked in the sunshine. Up hill, down hill, across bridges, through neighborhoods, over the locks, and along trails.

Day three was not quite as sunny…. A cold wind and rain followed us for eight or nine miles, chilling our tired muscles and soaking our feet. I will admit, there were a few times that I was tempted to give up, to hitch a ride and call it quits.

And then I would remember why I was walking. Yes, I have blisters. Yes, my knees are aching and my muscles are sore.

But blisters will heal; I’m glad I took every step.

P.S. The training was time consuming, but my family and friends have been awesome in their support — and I can’t thank my husband enough for being there for me through all this; he is amazing!