In March I decided, against all reason, to sign up for the Avon 39. A 2-day 39.3 mile walk through New York City to benefit breast cancer research. And while many have said what I’m doing is admirable, they often ask why I’m doing it.
Why am I walking?
I don’t have breast cancer. I don’t have anyone close to me battling breast cancer, though I’ve certainly known and cared for people who’ve fought. I’m not a survivor, nor is anyone in my immediate family.
The truth is, I’m walking for me.
I’m walking to prove that I can. To take my 38-year-old, well-rounded, obese body and transform it into a vehicle for change. To look at myself in the mirror and say that I did it. To show my little girl that her mom is fearless, and strong, and tough as hell.
And I can do all that AND support an amazing cause, then that’s even better.
Why Avon 39?
From the Avon 39 website:
The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade seeks to improve breast cancer outcomes and reduce disparities in survival rates at the community and national level. Our strategic grant making reflects: a holistic and place-based approach in high-need areas throughout the United States; a commitment to enabling access to medical advances and support services for breast cancer patients, particularly those from vulnerable populations; and a commitment to investing in research on the prevention, diagnostics, and treatment of breast cancer.
The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade focuses on care and seeks to help across the continuum of breast cancer – not only helping those who are at risk or diagnosed with the disease today, but also research into finding better treatments for tomorrow.
Does it get any better than that? I don’t think anyone would argue against better treatment for breast cancer patients, regardless of where they’re from or how much they make.
Isn’t that going to be hard?
Ummmm… yes. It’s going to be brutal. It’s going to suck. My sister-in-law told me a friend of hers lost all her toenails doing this walk. Ouch.
But, to quote one of my favorite childhood movies, “It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. The hard… is what makes it great.” (Bonus points if you know the movie!)
I could have signed up for a local 5k or 10k walk, and I still might – they’d be good for training – but I want to push myself. I could do a 5k without working for it. I could do a 10k with minimal preparation. But 39.3 miles? That’s going to take effort, training, and dedication.
Exactly what I’m looking for at this crossroads of my life.
Are you looking for a challenge to push you outside of your comfort zone? Join me! I’m walking in NYC on October 15-16 with the Solo Strutters team. It’s a team created so people who are walking on their own don’t have to walk alone.
Can’t make it to the walk? You can still donate. I haven’t yet met my required goal of $1800 raised. Every dollar counts! Click here to donate!
