#winelover

This past Sunday, October 11, we participated in a three-mile walk in Columbus, Ohio in support of breast cancer victims and those affected by the devastating disease. Making Strides is one of the Cancer Society’s  programs that supports breast cancer research. According to the website,

“Every three- to five-mile Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk is a powerful and inspiring opportunity to unite as a community to honor breast cancer survivors, raise awareness about steps we can take to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer, and raise money to help the American Cancer Society lead the fight against this disease with groundbreaking breast cancer research, information and support 24-7, and access to mammograms for women who need them.:

Making Strides in Columbus, Ohio

Early last Sunday morning, we drove into Columbus with a glorious sunrise brightening the horizon. When we reached the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) site for the start of the walk, the morning was pleasantly chilly but the group of walkers was enthusiastic. After signing our group in for the event, we watched while someone directed a large group of walkers into a line dancing  routine with music and enthusiasm.

Meghan and Andy at Making Strides

Many of the walkers were dressed all in the traditional pink of supporters for fighters against pink. If you didn’t have pink attire, there were visors and carry bags with pink donated by Kroger. Along the way many were handed pompoms to add the enthusiasm. Terry and I chose to wear our #winelover shirts we received from #winelover. My shirt was the traditional pink shirt and Terry’s shirt was black with pink writing. We joined Meghan and Andy for this Making Strides’ walk.

After the final line dance, we started the walk at the large balloon filled start of the race. At first walkers were quite close together. Eventually the race spread out as people concentrated on walking and/or conversations with others. Many groups participated in the event including small family groups, like our group, and business groups like Kroger.

Many of the walkers wore signs that said who they were walking for. I was particularly touched by a school-age boy whose sign read, “I walk for Mom” who appeared to be walking with his mother.

Finish Line at Making Strides

On Monday after the walk we received an email from Making Strides.  The walk on Sunday had 3,000 participants and raised $114,000. “While the event has passed, there is still an opportunity to continue the fight. It’s not too late to show you are committed to ending this disease. If you have not yet, make a personal donation to support your fundraising efforts. Remember that others will follow your example if you make a donation to yourself.”

In the future if you have the opportunity, form a Making Strides team or become a member of an existing team.

Cheers,
Kathy