All things TWP

So it has been a long while since I have written.  I am not going to make excuses like I usually do, but I am going to say that the TWP have been VERY hard at work trying to find our place in the world.  For many years, we have been known as "those girls who do the walk."  Well, yes, many of us do walk the 3-Day, and that is where we started--Me, Patty, and Cheryl deciding to walk for a cure, but now we are SO much more than that.  Finding a cure for breast cancer is still a priority to me, to us; however, the TWP realizes that cancer doesn't discriminate, so why should we?  We are there to help ALL women! This is our true passion.  So, we are working hard to create our new image.  In doing so we have lots of exciting news!

Recently we have teamed up with Charlene Dolan from Dolan Financial Services.  Why might we team up with Charlene, you ask?  Simply said, she is amazing.  She has a wealth of experience, not just in finance.  She has been on numerous boards, knows lots of people, and fortunately for us, she has taken a liking to the TWP.  The more I get to know her, the more I admire her.  She has met with me and Patty on several occasions, and she has forced us to hone our vision for TWP while striving to strengthen our non-profit.  She recently helped foster what I believe will be one of our greatest partnerships.  Ready for this...The TWP have partnered with the Greater Newburyport YWCA!!!  Part of the YWCA's mission is to empower women.  How perfectly does that blend with the TWP?  In addition, many of you may not be aware, but the YWCA offers an unbelievable service to women who are breast cancer survivors.  It is called the Encore Program.  Encore is a session based program designed specifically for those who have experienced breast cancer at any time in their lives. It incorporates gentle exercises, relaxation techniques, information and peer group support. It is safe, fun and therapeutic.  Ilene Grady, who runs the program, shares similar views to us, in that she believes that health and wellness is essential before, during, and after treatment.  To kick off our partnership, the TWP will be hosting a swim party for Encore members and TWP families.  The event has been affectionately named, "YWCA meets TWP--Embracing Possibilites"  Doesn't that sound great?  It gives me so much hope for the future.

Over the last month we have also met with Deb Chiaravalloti, a local marketing rep.  We wanted her take on our princess logo.  Obviously our logo is pink, and we are not all about breast cancer any more. We had a great meeting, but most  importantly, she loved our princess and what it represents.  We are just trying to figure out how to make her appeal to all forms of cancer.  It might take a bit, because we want her to be just perfect!  Be on the lookout for her debut, I'm sure it will be a smashing one!

We also have another project that is underway for the month of October.  I met with Mayor Keezer about a month ago to discuss it.  I was cautiously optimistic that we would have his support, but it went way beyond that!  He is thrilled with our idea!  During the month of October we plan to "Light the Town Pink!"  Community members will be able to purchase pink lightbulbs, and for one weekend we hope to light up the entire town.  This year it is pink, who knows what color it will be next year!  In addition to that, we will be releasing our "Men of Amesbury Support Cancer Awareness Calendar!"  Ron Mushow from Ron Mushow Photography and Judy Dodier have been hard at work hunting down some special men, both young and old, for our calendar.  We promise to have someone you know donning the pages.  You'll have to visit one of your favorite downtown businesses to purchase one!

Also, I wanted to mention our survivor baskets.  Earlier this year we received a grant  to compile baskets for women newly diagnosed with cancer.  To date, we have made 10 women's days a little bit brighter.  We have gotten requests from all parts of the North Shore!  I would be remiss if I did not mention Coleen Magowan and her business Wicked Cool Seaglass.  Coleen has donated a beautiful cancer ribbon charm made of sea glass and sterling silver to EVERY basket!  If you know of someone who could use a basket, or if you have something that you would like to donate to a basket, just shoot me a message, and we can work out the details.

Now, I assume most of you know what is happening in two days, right?  Yes, I will be participating in my 5th 3-Day starting on Friday!  I cannot wait.  Each year you think that I would anticipate it less, but that is just not the case.  I have so many dear friends, my 3-Day family, that I just can't wait to see.  My favorite part of the 3-Day is walking with "newbies."  I become filled with excitement watching them experience it for the first time.  It brings back that rush that I had that first time I saw those big inflatable columns or the pink flags being marched out on stage.

Yes, this year will be different.  Every year is, but it doesn't mean it will not be as good.  What I am most excited for this year is something that my daughter Maddie initiated.  By now, you all know of 9 year old Emma, and hopefully have read about the facebook campaign "Light the Way for Emma Journeay" to provide strength and support as Emma battles Stage 4 Neuroblastoma to find her way home from the hospital. (If you don't, you can read more about her story at Emma's Pen Pal Adventure Around the World.)   This year, Tina was asked to carry the "my child" flag at Opening and Closing Ceremonies.  To be asked to carry a flag is such an honor, but for Tina to be asked to carry this particular flag, well, there are no words.  Our hope is that Tina will be able to join the Boston 3-Day, and more importantly, her TWP at some point to celebrate Emma.  However, as any parent understands, this may not be feasible, and luckily for us, we have Tina's BFF Vicky waiting in the wings to do Emma proud!  The next piece is where Maddie comes in.  She thought it would be great to have candles set up outside our tents "lighting the way" for Emma.  How perfect!  I mentioned it to Bridget, the 3-Day Field Coordinator, and she suggested I mention it to other teams.  This morning it has gone viral on facebook and there are requests to light candles at ALL of the 3-Day cities around the country for Emma and Tina!  Absolutely unbelievable!  This is why I will continue to walk the 3-Day.
  
Obviously, you are aware that this has been a challenging year for many of the TWP.  For some it may feel like this walk is insignificant compared to what is going on in their lives.  I completely agree with that; however, I think the 3-Day is the initial glue that bonded the TWP.  While we have all become close friends, the 3-Day is the one time of the year when we all get together and support each other.  It is a time when we can cry, laugh, or scream together.  It is one weekend when we all join for one purpose. It doesn't matter if it rains.  To quote a friend, "I'd take rain over chemo any day!"  It doesn't matter our feelings toward SGK.  What matters is that we are together trying to make a difference, and holding each other up while doing it.  What matters is that we are a team.  What matters is that 3-Day provides HOPE. 

TWPs off and running...

I have been super emotional lately.  All emotions--excited, fearful, reflective, angry.  I sat down to write a blog several times, but I felt I just needed some time to get my thoughts together.  I am sure that by now all of you have heard about the Komen/Planned Parenthood debacle.  When it first went down, I didn't know what to think.  I was just dumfounded.  Many of us were.  For days my Facebook news feed blew up with comments, both positive and negative.  I had people saying sorry, but they were no longer going to donate to Komen.  I had women that I had walked with for years questioning their commitment to this organization.  Personally, I was hurt.  How was I going to raise money if my donors were no longer going to support me?  I didn't understand how something like breast cancer could become so political.   In addition to that, I had to have a very adult conversation with my 12 year old son.  He overheard me speaking to AZ about the possibility of people not wanting to donate to SGK.  Z point-blank asked me why someone wouldn't want to donate to an organization that was hopefully going to find the cure for breast cancer.   I then had to explain to him about abortion and political views--not a conversation I was expecting to have at this age.  Fortunately, he is a bright kid, and he got it.  His response, "What does breast cancer have to do with politics?"  EXACTLY!!!  Cancer doesn't care whether you are a member of the GOP, the Green Party or if you are a Democrat.  When you take the politics out of it, SGK is the leading private raiser of funds for breast cancer research, second only to the United States Government.  I have friends that are alive because of Komen grants, specifically Bridget and Maurine.  So for me, this isn't political, it's personal.

Last weekend many TWPs and Pink Angels were at a GSM for Komen that was attended by a reporter from NPR.  She was looking for insight into walkers' feelings about the situation for her article.  Many of us were interviewed about our opinion, but Dana hit the nail on the head when she said, "This isn't about politics for me. It's about finding a cure for something that's affecting 1 in 8 women, including myself.  And I have three daughters to worry about."  I think I can say with confidence that many of us echo Dana's sentiment and will continue to support SGK until there is a cure. 

That being said...the TWPs are off and running.  For the last few years, we have always taken a hiatus during the fall, but it appears that there will be no more of that.  Now that we are a non-profit, there are so many people to help and so many things to do.

First of all, we are up to 26 members that will be walking the 3-Day!  I am very excited about my friend Keri and her friend Allison joining us.  Keri is married to Wayne, AZ's college roommate.  In recent years, Keri has thought about participating in the 3-Day, especially after Allison was diagnosed.  Well, this is the year.  The two are making the trek up to Boston from New York to walk with us.  In addition to them, we have another New Yorker, Teri Cox, Dana's BFF.  The TWPs are now making our mark nation-wide.  We also have Rita and Nicole K. joining us.  Rita wanted to be part of a local team when she signed up.  (I don't think she had any idea what she would be in for!)   And Maurine recruited Nicole at a GSM.  Nicole is one of our younger walkers.  She decided to walk after watching a women in treatment while riding the T.  She was so affected by her, she signed up just a few days later.  Maurine has also convinced her sister Deb to join the TWPs, although I don't know how much convincing was involved after she made the journey up from Florida for Mo's 50th.  Once you spend an evening partying with the TWPs there is no turning back. Then we have Barbara's daughter Amelia who is only in college.  Every time she has been home from school she has gotten up early to walk with us.  There aren't too many college kids willing to wake up before 10 o'clock these days.  And of course our last not-so-new newbie--Alexa, Patty's daughter!  Alexa is no stranger to the 3-Day.  She has participated in the Youth Corps for the last two years.  She is now officially old enough to walk, and she couldn't be more excited!

After our video last year, we knew the TWPs would grow.  We hoped that our enthusiasm would be contagious, and it was.  Personally, I thought it would be a one year thing.  Well, that is obviously not the case.  We have so many walkers returning!  To do this event once is a decision in itself, but to be a repeat walker knowing what to expect is completely different, especially when we walked in 105 degree temperatures.  I am thrilled to have these women with us.  While we are 26, there is still plenty of room for new walkers.  The 3-Day season is barely upon us.   If you are even entertaining the idea, shoot me an email and we can talk.  I promise I won't bully you into joining!

If you don't feel that walking is right for you, we do have another option for you to be involved in our organization.  For $10, you can now become a TWP!  I know what you are thinking.  Isn't donating enough?  Now they want me to do something else?  No, we only want you to do what you feel comfortable with!  Plus, you get discounted admission to one of our events!  If you would like to do more, we would love your help.  You can offer assistance with fundraising, decorating, making meals for women in treatment, transportation for people in need, or any other service that you feel you could contribute.  Or like I said before, do nothing at all and just support us.  Be sure to visit the TWP webpage to fill out your membership form today!

As you may have heard, we will again be holding our 3rd Annual Dance Like a Princess Silent Auction on Saturday, May 19th at Holy Family Parish Hall in Amesbury.  We are hoping to surpass the $20,000 that we raised last year.  We are looking for donations, so if you, or someone you know has a connection to a business or has a product or service that they would like to donate just let us know.  We like to have a variety of merchandise ranging in price. You can email me, or just go to our website and fill out your contact information.  Tickets will be on sale soon, so save the date!

Another new feature that we have added to our team this year is that our friends now have the ability to make a TEAM donation.  In the past, Komen only allowed us to receive individual donations.  This year our donors have the ability to donate directly to the TEAM!  We are hoping this will help our friends who know numerous people on the TWPs.  Plus a portion of the money donated directly to the team will stay with our organization to help local women which I'm sure many of you will be happy about.

Lastly, I would love to say the sincerest of "thank yous" to my friends and family who have already donated to my walk.  I am on my way with $1145!  That being said...I still need your help.  Remember, you can sign up for a payment plan through the 3-Day where you can choose to have money taken from your account for up to four months.  Talk about enhancing your donation!  Also, if you do decide to donate, check to see if your company offers matching gifts--another way to make your cash go further! 

I am truly looking forward to sharing another 3-Day season with each and every one of you!

xo,
Sherri

My ABC's of 2011

A new year, a time to reflect and a time to resolve.

I have never been one for resolutions.  I just can't keep them.  I don't know what that says about me, but it is what it is.  This year, I will make one, as I do every year, and I hope to keep it.  I resolve to write more blogs in 2012.  Last year I really dropped the ball and I have heard from many of you that I need to pick it up again.  Duly noted.  I will do my best.

One thing that I do like to do, however, is reflect on the previous year.  2011--was quite a year--filled with some of the brightest moments I can think of, but at the same time filled with times of sadness and anxiety.  Moving on, I am once again filled with hope for the future.  As a teacher, I always find myself learning new things, and I try to relate my experiences to my teaching.  As most of you may know, I transferred out of the Special Education Department and into the English Department this year.  It has been challenging having to develop new curriculum for books I haven't read since college, but it is something that I am pleased that I chose to do.  Thinking about how my life relates to teaching, I have decided to share with you my ABC's of 2011.  Be prepared folks...it's a long one.

A:  Anniversary

During this past year I celebrated one of the BEST anniversaries ever!  My five year "cancerversary!"  I know you have all heard that once you reach five years your chances of recurrence go way down.  Hooray for me!  In addition, at the beginning of December I went off of my Tamoxifen!  I am now drug and cancer free.  Here's hoping 2012 stays that way.

B:   Bridget
I am sure that most of you know who she is.  I have written about her in several blogs, and provided links to her blog as well.  She is my stage 4 metastatic breast cancer survivor friend.  She was diagnosed at the age of 21 and was told she had a 16% chance of living to see the age of 30.  She recently turned 28.  Bridget is a brilliant writer who has an uncanny knack of making her readers part of her world.  Throughout this year, Bridget has experienced great highs and also some very scary times.  She has taken over a new job being the Field Coordinator for the Boston 3-Day.  I feel so very blessed to have her as part of my life, and each day she gives me another reason to walk.  Please take the opportunity to read her blog, My Big Girl Pants and you will see just how amazing she is.

C:  C25K  

After our walk in July was completed, many of the TWPs experienced "princess withdrawal"--a condition only known to those who have participated in the intense training that goes along with the 3-Day. Patty came to our rescue organizing a Couch to 5K program for those interested.  The first week had over 50 people, and almost half of them were kids!  It was incredible to see so many people gathered together trying to become healthier.  It was a great 8 weeks even if the Race for the Cure was canceled due to the freak October snow storm.

D:  DC 

This past October Patty, Cheryl, Jody, and I made the journey to Washington, DC to be crew members of the DC 3-Day.  It was an experience that none of us will ever forget.  We were members of the Traffic Team and we literally directed traffic--sometimes in the dark!  Even with reflective vests and light sabers, it was very scary standing in the middle of a busy street.  The four of us were inseparable, and thanks to our fearless leader Jason, we became known as "Boston."  We were one unit.  The first day sucked.  Of course "Boston" brought the rain down to DC because we know it always rains in Boston on the 3-Day.  This rain was torrential--buckets and buckets.  They ended up having to bring yards and yards of mulch into camp because it was a complete mud pit.  We were freezing and soaked to the core, as was our luggage.  Good thing we listened to the 3-Day coaches and packed everything in Ziploc bags.  Day 2 was much better, and so was the weather.  We were relatively comfortable with our duties, and Jason even let us cheer on the walkers coming in--a TWP cheering squad, the perfect job for us.  We did have one minor mishap when we tried to jump into the back of a golf cart for a photo op and spilled mulch all over the route.  Oops! The last day, Day 3, was TOUGH!  We helped pack up camp. We stacked tables and chairs and more tables and chairs.  Don't ever think that Crew is easy—working from 5AM-9PM is hard work.  I would much rather walk 60 miles any day!

E:  Emma 

Emma is a beautiful, vibrant eight year old girl who happens to be Tina, our Treasurer's daughter.  Late in the summer Emma was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, a type of cancer that affects the adrenal glands and the nervous system.  It usually affects young children, so it was surprising to see that Emma had it.  Being a survivor herself, Tina was devastated.  She had some idea of what was in store for Emma. Since her diagnosis Emma has undergone chemo, which has been a rocky road with numerous hospital stays due to low blood counts and some illnesses.  She will hopefully finish her last round this week and then be on to her next steps--stem cell transplants and surgery.  I can't begin to fathom how difficult this time has been for Tina, Derek, and their two other boys.  I do know that the TWPs will be by her side throughout it all.  While this has been more than a trying time for Tina and her family, once again I feel that cancer has brought out the best in all of us.  I know that Tina and Emma will stay PRINCESS STRONG!

F: Flash Mob   

This past October the TWPs joined forces with The Pink Angels for our first flash mob.  After several practices, we met in Boston on a sultry October afternoon.  Completing one last run-through in the parking garage, everyone casually made their way to the area in front of The Aquarium.  Once the music started, we were led by several talented young dancers. Check out Mia on the left in front.  She gets her great rhythm from her mom!

G: Get Started Meeting  

Last March I told you about a Get Started Meeting where a woman, Kathleen, recognized Patty and me from our video. She told me how she showed it to her sister who was recently diagnosed, and how it made a powerful impact on her and lifted her spirits.  Well, this story gets better.  On Day 3 of the walk, the TWPs were completing the last 3 miles of our 60, together as a team.  (These were by far, the best miles of the walk.)  As the survivors carried our sign, we rounded the corner to enter into holding.  Before us stood a woman clearly just out of treatment.  She yells to me, "Sherri!  I'm Eileen, Kathleen's sister!  When you said, 'Cancer is not who I am' in your video, you changed my life.  Thank you!"  I write that verbatim, because they are words I will never forget.  That moment will be etched in my mind always.

H:  Husbands   

The men who wear pink and don't think twice about it.  Where would the TWPs be without our husbands?  Really they are the glue that hold us together.  Without them who would shuttle the kids to their games and activities while we are walking miles on end?  In addition, who would put up with us when we are exhausted from walking the miles on end?  Seriously, we have some of the greatest men around.  Cheryl's husband Bob was so inspired by his wife he chose to walk with us this year, and Ronnie, Lisa's husband has taken hundreds of pictures for us and put them into slideshows which can be found on this page.  If that wasn't enough, he is donating 5% of the proceeds from Ron Mushow Photography to the TWPs.  Be sure to check him out on Facebook.  Also there is Dana's husband, Jim, who would paint something new on his car every time he rode by us on the route.  And of course, the other Jim, Maurine's husband, who followed us all along the route offering a chauffered ride to his lovely bride. They are all amazing,  but we cannot forget my AZ who organized the TWP cheering station and creates some of the BEST signs ever!  He is my rock! 

I:  Inspiration  

The TWPs have always hoped to be a source of inspiration to others, and I feel we have.  My point was proven at breakfast on Day 3 of last year's walk.  While a group of us were gobbling up eggs and bacon, a young woman, probably in her late 20's came up to us.  She told us of her friend who was diagnosed with breast cancer while she was pregnant.  Like many women, she opted against chemo for the safety of her baby.  When her daughter was born, her friend arrived at the hospital with news that she had decided to walk the 3-Day in her honor.  A few weeks later when the friend visited mom and baby, she decided to show her our video "Walk Like A Princess."  The mother's quality of life had gone drastically downhill and she knew she did not have much time left.  The video seemed to touch her soul.  Two weeks before the walk, as she lay dying, she looked at her best friend and said, "Find the Tough Warrior Princesses at the walk, and tell them I said thank you."  I have told this story many times, and even as I type it here, I have tears streaming down my face.  That moment is what it is all about. 

J:  Jeff Hollett  
I have written about our friend Jeff, whose sister passed away from breast cancer.  He is part of the team Baghdad Breast Defense, and was in the service while he began training for his first walk which he hoped to complete with his sister.  Unfortunately she passed before July, and Jeff walked in her honor, and has ever since.  Jeff is a great character--he dyes his hair hot pink and carries a large flag during the entire walk.  Every year he enters Closing Ceremonies wearing pink army fatigues.  This year one of the highlights of the walk happened with Jeff on Day 3.  About one mile outside of Holding, Jeff asked us to form a "circle of trust."  We all stood shoulder to shoulder facing outward with Jeff in the middle.  He proceeded to change into his pink camo.  As we stood there, someone started singing God Bless America.  Immediately the tears started.  What a memory to have.
 
K:  Komen  Where our money goes.  Thank you for giving life to many of my friends.

L:  Letters from Santa  

This was the second year that the TWPs conducted this fundraiser, and it was even more successful than last year.  For $10 a child could receive a personalized letter from the Big Guy.  Parents said that their children were ecstatic to receive something from Santa himself.  The best part is that we raised $500!  Way to go!  Let's hope we have even more requests next year.

M:  Maurine  
Just a few short weeks ago, the TWPs gathered to celebrate Mo's 50 Years of Greatness!  What a night!  What was supposed to be a surprise was obviously not--Maurine looked too damn fantastic!  There was good food, good company, and a fabulous roast with notes from friends who were not able to make it.  Maurine's sister Linda even flew up from Florida!  And of course there was lots of dancing.  Whenever the TWPs get together it looks like a scene from "Old Ladies Gone Wild!"  I think our feet were more sore after that night than during the walk.  

N:  Non-Profit  This year the TWPs became official.  Yes, we are a 501c3!  What that means for us is that we can now solicit donations directly from sponsors.  We have our own tax exempt number which will make it easier to receive goods for events.  Businesses can donate food and alcohol directly to the TWPs.  We are hoping this will bring in even more funds this year!  Speaking of funds...

O:  One hundred and nine thousand dollars!  Need I say more?

P:  Princesses (and Princes too!)  These are some of the most important people in my life.  They are who I contact when I am anxious, sad, or thrilled beyond compare.  I know that every single one of them would be there for me no matter what.  Together we make magic.  The only way you will ever understand what I mean is to join us. 

Q:  Quest for a Cure  I am on it.  This is my mission, and I will not stop until there is one.   

R:  Rides 

Two of my favorite moments on this year's 3-Day involved rides.  Both of which happened on the last day of the walk.  On Day 3 I was feeling a bit down.  I was not feeling the magic that I had experienced in previous years.  With a large team it was difficult to get that close-knit camaraderie.  As a large group of us was just about to leave Pit 1, we see Maurine come in.  We made a conscious decision to hang for a bit and savor every moment of the rest of the walk.  I am so happy that we did.  I had it stuck in my mind that I wanted to ride the Swan Boats in The Public Garden.  If The Pink Angels could manage to do it every year with a team of almost 100, then we could definitely do it.  And we did!

The other ride happened a little later that day.  We were walking our last two mile,s singing songs and enjoying everything around us, when we happened to come upon 3 transit police.  Coincidentally, it was one officer's birthday, so of course we serenaded him.  Then good old Maurine proceeded to jump on his motorcycle ready to finish the route.  It was classic Mo, and we all just cracked up.

S:  Silent Auction 

Our second annual Dance Like a Princess Silent Auction was our most successful fundraiser to date.  In one night we raised over $20,000 and had an absolute blast doing it.  We had over 150 auction items.  It was a lot of work, but so worth it.  It is probably the only night, other than the walk, when the entire team was together (minus Melanie because she had already planned a vacation).  If you weren't able to make it this past year, we will be releasing the date soon, so mark it on your calendars for 2012.  It should be even better.  For highlights from our 2011 auction, just click the link to the right.  

T:  Tea Party  

Last spring we held our first Princess Tea Party for girls and their moms, aunts, or any special person in their lives.  The Amesbury Cultural Center was emblazoned in pink and the girls all looked so precious dressed in their finest.  We decorated sugar cookies, made crafts, and even had Princesses Alexa and Kiki available for photo ops.  There were tea sandwiches and sweets to satisfy everyone's pallet.  I am so looking forward to doing this again in 2012.  We plan to have two seatings this time, and I am sure it will be even better!

U:  UMASS  

Where Closing  has been held for the last several years.  Walking along the beach in South Boston and seeing the University in the distance is such an overwhelming feeling.  You know that you have just completed three of the most memorable days of your life.  You feel...

V:  Victorious  Okay, so "v" was really hard to come up with.  But it is true.

W:  Walks  

What else would "w" be?  Lots and lots of them.  And really long ones too.  Heck, we even have one planned for 6:45AM on Saturday.  Want to join us?  It may be a lot, but, you know what?  I wouldn't trade any of them--even those on the hottest of days or the most blustery of mornings.  Why?  Because of the people I am spending my time with.

X:  X-Rays

This was the year of the x-ray.  Last winter I thought I was having a heart attack and was rushed to hospital by ambulance.  There they did a chest x-ray.  Then I sprained my ankle hanging my new drapes--another x-ray.  Then I broke my toe a week after the walk--yet another x-ray.  And the piece de resistance...the brain scan because I thought I had a brain tumor.  I should probably be worried about all the additional radiation exposure, but as a survivor I feel at peace knowing that I have had the majority of my body scanned recently, and everything looks a-okay.

Y:  You 

My readers, my family, my friends.  You are what made my year so very special--your kind words, your laughter, your tears, and your donations!  I wouldn't be able to do this year after year without your generosity and support.  I look back at where I was five years ago, and I was a different person.  Thanks to you I am new and improved.  For this I truly feel humbled. So I must say the sincerest of thank you's to each and every one of you!  xo

Z:  Ziomeks 

For most people "z" would be difficult, but not so much for me.  When I say Ziomeks I mean my family--the hubby and the kiddos.  They never asked for a cancer diagnosis, but they got one too, and I have to say that they have handled it with all the dignity and class one can muster.  When the 12 year old boy doesn't blink an eye if mom hands him a pink shirt, or a shirt with a princess on it, you know that some good has come out of this mess.  The same holds true for the girlies wanting to raise money for your walk, or make bracelets for your team.  AZ holds a sign for me at closing each year and it says, "in sickness and in health."  He is the one who is always there for me, each and every mile along that walk.  I know I can round a corner at any moment and my family will be standing there in the sweltering heat, even when the route is closed down. 

  

Now, I know my parents' last name is not Ziomek, but I could not let the highlights of 2011 go by without mentioning my parents.  They made me who I am.  They taught me courage and resilience.  They are the ones that encouraged me to never give up and to follow my dreams.  They are the reason I do what I do today.  

So--That was my year.  A little long-winded, I know, but I haven't written in 6 months.  Here's hoping that 2012 is even more dynamic!  

Love to all,

Sherri   

 


 

  

  

EXTREME 3-DAY 2011--Day 2

Believe it or not, the majority of us woke up at 5AM chilled.  We all left our tents open and were just sleeping with sheets--no sleeping bags this year.  Personally, I didn't sleep great, but what can you expect.  We quickly got dressed and put the fly and tarp over our tent.  It looked like we might get a quick shower, but we figured it was going to be so hot, everything would dry quickly.  They planned to open the route earlier than usual, at 6AM, because the temps were expected to soar once again.  After a yummy meal of eggs, bacon, sausage, hash brown, and banana, we were on our way again.  We arrived at the gate just a little after six, but the route still wasn't open.  Someone said that the ice vendor would not arrive early, and they were fearful that people would arrive at Pit 1, and there would be no ice.  At 6:20 the route was opened and we were on our way.

Every day on the walk we start together, but you've heard me talk about our kamikaze walkers with Connie being the leader.  Well Connie had a partner in crime this day--little Miss Allison.  For those of you who do not know Allison, she is one of the children's librarians in our town.  She also can't be more than 5 feet tall.  We used to joke that it was one step for Connie and two for Allison.  Well, that day, Allison led the pack and arrived back at camp at number 140 out of 2000.

Taking a break waiting for the route to re-open.

What started as a much cooler morning with a slight breeze, began to turn ugly at about mile 3 or 4.  There was one portion of the route where we had to walk up the street a bit, use a crosswalk, then double back on the other side of the street.  When we turned around, the sky was an ominous charcoal gray.  Oh no!  I thought there would be no rain this year.  Then began the rumbles of thunder.  The wind was blowing, and it just felt like a storm.  As we trekked up the "hill that never ends" (you've heard me mention in previous years) it began to sprinkle.  Then the sprinkle turned to a light rain.  Then came the lightning.  Yep--extreme 3-Day!  As a child, I was terrified of thunder and lightning.  I'm over that now, but believe me, the last place I wanted to be was under a bunch of trees, next to a body of water in Winchester.  Seriously?  Being familiar with the route I knew that there was a pit stop ahead.  As we pulled in, we put on our lovely pink ponchos, that Jody had so generously purchased for everyone, and were getting ready to refuel when they looked at us and told us that the route was closed due to lightning. It was me, Nichole, and Dana, and we sat down under a porch and waited.  We found out later in the day that those in front of us were never pulled off the route, they just kept walking, and those behind us were pulled into Arlington High School for a bit.  Unfortunately, that made the gap between all of us even larger.  I knew we wouldn't be able to be together the entire day, but I was missing the rest of my team.

After about 20-30 minutes, the route re-opened.  Ponchos came off and the sun started to try to peak through.  We began walking with Wayne from the Pink Angels.  The Pink Angels, if you don't already know, is the largest team in the Boston 3-Day.  They are simply amazing.  Since their creation, they have raised over 1.5 million dollars!  Very impressive!  Josie, one of their captains, has also been a huge support to the TWPs in our endeavor to become a 501c3, and personally has offered much guidance in how to lead a large team.  Thanks Josie!  Love you!  But, back to Wayne.  Since I have walked, Wayne has always been a member of the Pink Angel Posse.  He always dressed in a pink gown with big angel wings.  You will see the posse everywhere along the route, and they are always wearing something to make us laugh.  This year, Wayne was walking.  His wife is a 14 year survivor, and he had the honor of carrying the "My Wife" flag during Opening and Closing.  It was so interesting to talk with someone who is such a wealth of 3-Day knowledge and is just so passionate about finding a cure.  It was one of my favorite parts of the day.

From Winchester, we headed into Woburn where the TWP cheering station was.  I had decided to hang there and eat lunch with AZ and the kids.  It was motivating to see all of our families there.  The signs were outstanding.  McCue the Florist was super supportive, and even moved stuff around for us.  They provided watermelon, and others brought orange slices, freeze pops, squirt bottles, signs, dunking stations, and we even had photo ops with Big Papi!  My mom provided a camp chair with an awning so I took a few to sit back and relax.  I loved hearing the walkers go by saying, "We love the TWPs!"  "Those girls are the best!"  It really made me feel good.

From there, we bypassed lunch and continued on the route.  It was here that we ran into Dana's husband and her three gorgeous girls.  Every time we turned around, they were there.  And each time her husband had painted something new on the mini-van.  It just cracked us up.  This continued for the remainder of Day 2.  Her girls showed up at a pit stop with face paint, and were even allowed just inside the shoot as we were headed into camp.  What a special moment that was for Dana.

If you have been a reader of my blog, you know my friend Tracy--the woman who has been my rock for the last 5 years.  She's the one who did all crazy stuff for me while I was in treatment, and she also made the outstanding signs that lined the route on Day 2 of last year's walk.  Well, once again, Tracy came to cheer me on!  As I was walking into Lexington center I see this woman walking toward me.  Mind you, I don't have my glasses on, so to me she is just some random woman.  Then I realize my dear friend has returned to the 3-Day to walk with me for a few miles.  I am so disappointed I didn't get a picture of us.  Tracy missed us at the TWP cheering station and decided to walk up and down the route looking for us.  Before she met up with me, she had walked with both Kaitlyn and Patty.  All in all she ended up walking about 3 or 4 miles in a skirt and flip flops.  The funny thing was that she ended up with a blister!  In all her miles of training years ago, she never got one!  Must be those sassy silver sandals.  Seeing her just brightened my day and gave me the strength to keep plugging.  I keep hoping that one day she will walk with me again.  No pressure Trace!

Dana, Nichole, and Sherri with the Minute Men.

After saying good-bye to Tracy, we realized it was starting to get very hot again.  It was around 2:00, and the sun was now blazing.  Where was that lovely cloud cover we had earlier in the day?  I would even take the showers sans lightning.  We knew we only had 5 or 6 miles left, and that we could do it.  As we passed through the Lexington cheering station, we were greeted by the Minute Men.  Of course we had to stop and take a photo.

We arrived at Pit 5, 2 miles outside of camp at 2:55 when we heard rumors of the route closing again.  Hell, no!  I am not getting on another bus when I only have 2 miles left.  I asked one of the crew what was going on, and they said that if you were not back on the route by 3:00, you would be transported back to camp.  My response, "Gatorade, please."  And off we went.

At this point, we were done--not actually, but we were ready to be.  All that was left was a medium-sized hill.  No prob.  We would be back before the buses came in.  No shower lines for us.

As I said earlier, we were greeted by Dana's family as we entered camp.  In addition to them, was a member of the Event Staff who said we could not shower until 5:00 or so, and that they would prefer we did not go into our tents.  I just said that I needed to get my flip-flops.  "Okay," was his response.  How could he argue with a woman who just walked 21 miles?  Here is where I got a bit sneaky.  Having done this walk for years, I understand my body, and know how it reacts to these conditions.  I knew I had consumed enough food and Gatorade that I would be fine in the shower, but how could I argue with staff?  People were standing guard at various entrance points to the tents.  All of a sudden, I saw my break.  One staff member walked over to talk to another, and immediately I started zig-zagging through tents, sneakily making my way to the showers.  Not very "Safety Spice" like, but I just couldn't wait to get clean.

We had all agreed that we would sit together at the dining tent on Saturday night.  What the majority of the team did not not realize was that the reason we wanted to do this was because our fearless teammate, Maurine, was chosen out of 2000 people to be the camp show speaker.  Plus, the Saturday night camp show should be experienced as a team.

We didn't need to wait for the show to start, Connie was our entertainment--not just that night, but all weekend long.  I think of anyone on the team, this weekend affected her the most.  To see someone who is always laughing and joking around be turned to tears, really makes an impact on those around.  At this point Connie proceeded to call the good Dr. over to introduce the TWPs to her.  This year, Komen has a new National Spokesperson for the 3-Day for the Cure.  While many of us miss Jenne, Dr. Sheri did a fabulous job.  Connie called her to our table and made sure she knew who we were.  Dr. Sheri said that she had seen our video, and that it was outstanding.  She said  that they gave the youtube link out at some Komen media thing.  I don't know the exact details.  What a great feeling to know that the TWPs are known outside of Boston.

The camp show started with the Bank of America money booth--one of those blow up booths where the money blows everywhere, and you try to get as much as you can in a certain time.  There were two people that were chosen, and wouldn't you know that one of them was Maurine's son Dylan who was participating in Youth Corp once again.  Dylan and another young woman were able to grab almost $250 dollars which Bank of America doubled and donated to the Komen Massachusetts Affiliate.  It was an exciting start to the evening. 

Following that was Maurine's speech.  I really have no words to describe it.  Maurine is simply one of a kind.  She made everyone understand the poignancy of this walk while inspiring, motivating, and laughing along the way.  She had the perfect combination of seriousness and comedy.  I heard someone say after that they didn't know whether to laugh or cry.  It felt like you were just having a conversation with her. If you have not seen it yet, please take the time to view it.  You won't regret it. Her closing had such an impact on a young woman, Samantha, that she took a photo from her 3-Day adventure and embedded Maurine's words into it.   I was thrilled to receive an email from Samantha and immediately forwarded it to the rest of the team.  We now all have it as our profile picture on Facebook in honor of Maurine.  Our hope is that Samantha will decide to join us as a TWP next year in Boston.

After that, Youth Corp stood up and told the crowd why they raise money and volunteer their time to the 3-Day.  These kids are wise beyond their years, and have such a maturity about them.  I guess when faced with cancer, they have to.  It is uplifting to see kids realizing that they too can make a difference, yet sad too, because they want to do this when they should just be kids.  Our team is lucky enough to have 3 kids on Youth Corp.  This was Alexa's second and final year.  Next year she will be old enough to walk with us.  This was Maurine's other son, Tyler's, first year.  Of all the Youth Corp, Dylio, as he has been affectionately named, was the last to speak.  At this point, all the walkers knew who he was.  He had already done the money booth, and was on stage when his mom gave her speech.  Let me tell you--like mother, like son.  He just commanded that stage.  He was absolutely adorable. 

When the camp show ended, we decided to walk over to the Remembrance Tent.  Last year when we went, it was so emotional for all of us.  This year was no different.  In the tent there are photos of walkers that had passed over this past year.  They were such beautiful women.  The most disturbing part was that many of them were younger than me.  In the past I have written about those times when I feel so vulnerable--when I feel like I may not know it, but my cancer could still be wreaking havoc on my body.  This was one of those times.  Why am I here, and they are not?  I think about years down the road.  Will my picture be in this tent?  Then in the next moment I look at those around me and think, "No, it won't.  We will find a cure."  As I walked out of the tent, I saw my friend Mara, a fellow survivor.  Just one year ago, after turning 40, she walked for her best friend, only to be diagnosed herself after completing the walk.  I can't even begin to imagine the emotions running through her.  One year later, and she is here.  I don't think I will ever forget that hug we shared that night.  On the 3-Day you laugh and have loads of fun, but the Remembrance Tent is what it is all about.