It’s that time of year when I think of the people we said goodbye to because of cancer, each year the number increases of people I know and those close to be who have also been affected.  Recently, a colleague of mine disclosed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer; she does not have a family history nor does she tick any boxes that would make her high risk.  The good news is that she now a survivor!  

I will participate again in honour of those we’ve lost, in celebration of those you have kicked cancer to the curb and to acknowledge all the people that help those diagnosed and their families fight this disease.  

Every day, 75 Canadians will hear the words “you have breast cancer.”  I will forever remember the day that my Mom told my siblings and I that she heard those words.  I have lost count of the number of people that I know that have fought breast cancer and even more so, the number of people near and dear to me that have lost one of their loved ones to breast cancer.  

My Mom will be 4.5 year cancer free at the time of the run this year, for which I am so extremely grateful.  I will think of my Grandma who lived with breast and other cancers for more than 18 years with a positive attitude, a zest for life and so much grace.  I will think of other people in my life who have been affected and remember happy memories.   I will cheer on the survivors who will be running or walking or volunteering in their pink shirts.  I will think of all the people that help a person after they receive their diagnosis, from the nurses, doctors, technicians, office staff, physios to the drivers, store personnel who help with new bras, wigs, etc, volunteers and family.  I am excited for the energy and atmosphere of the day - there is strength in numbers.

Participating in the Run for the Cure is a small thing in our fight against breast cancer, but I hope that one day in our lifetime there will be a cure.

If you are able, I would really appreciate your support for this year's Run.  Every dollar makes a difference. Your donation will fund the best breast cancer research in Canada and a vitally important support system that helps people with breast cancer and their families nationwide.

Thanks in advance for your support!