Why

On October 19, 2009, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Ten days later I had a mastectomy, and after a three week recovery from surgery, I began chemo treatments November 20th. In April, 2010, I finished chemo and in January, 2011, I finished my non-chemo treatment.

Throughout my experience with breast cancer, the American Cancer Society has been an invaluable resource of information, kindness, and support. ACS research produced two of the treatments used to save my life. To say thank you, I'm participating in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer to support ACS and their awesome efforts.

American Cancer Society was vital to me during my diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, for many reasons:

• Before my biopsy, I called ACS and asked them what questions should I ask my biopsy doctor. They helped me find that exact list on their website, so I felt prepared when I met my doctor
• ACS provided almost all of the reading material I have about breast cancer: brochures, online, booklets, notebooks, etc.
• A Reach to Recovery volunteer visited me at home shortly after my surgery, answered a lot of my questions, and gave me a temporary prosthetic breast.
• I attended Look Good, Feel Better, a self-care seminar for women going through cancer treatment. I received over $200 worth of free make-up and beauty products
• In a visit to ACS, I was able to choose from hats, bandanas, mastectomy bras, and even received a prosthetic breast!

Obviously I'm a big fan of American Cancer Society, and want to do my part to help them reach their fundraising goals for MSABC this year. Please give as generously as you can, or better yet, please join my team and walk with me this year. October in Destin should be cool and beautiful, the perfect weather for a 5K.

Please help in any way you can:

• Join our team, walk with us October 29th, and help us raise money. Join here
• Donate at least $10 and receive a beautiful bracelet. Call me 850 376-5432
• Join the Pink Ribbon Tie Club for $100 and receive a gift-boxed handsome pink ribbon tie to show your support of breast cancer research. Call me at 850 376-5432
• Donate even if you prefer not to walk or don't want a bracelet. Donate here

E-mail me if you have any questions.