We're well into October, Breast Cancer Awareness month, a time to celebrate the accomplishments in the fight so far, remember friends and loved ones and get motivated all over again to make a difference.
In the coming weeks there are so many great opportunities here in the South and around the country to get involved.
I ran in the Race for the Cure alongside colleagues from Southern Progress and 14,000 other runners and walkers in Birmingham, Saturday. Even with persistent showers, the downtown streets overflowed with pink. Within two minutes of the race start I lost my running buddies and fellow interns, (In the photo L to R: Maddie Crawford, Jennifer Barnes, Christy Roach and Katie Melick before the race) but I found the time to soak in the real meaning of the Race. I read the names pinned to runners' backs, overheard powerful stories and listened to cheers from the sidewalks.
There are 26 races in the South benefitting Susan G Komen in October and it's not too late to join in, just search for a race near you here and lace up your running sneaks. Your fundraising stays close to home; 75% of the net income of each race funds breast health programs in the local community. Check out a 5k training guide or take it easy with a fitness walk, both help the cause and get you moving.
Signing up for a race kick- starts your motivation to exercise because every workout builds up to a larger goal. In the weeks leading up to the race every time I saw a Race for the Cure sign, I felt re-energized and ran a little bit faster and farther.
The race series has progressed in leaps and bounds from humble beginnings in Dallas, Texas in 1983 with 800 runners. Now there are more than 120 races around the world. It's a venue for people of all ages to show support in their own individual way. Though most stick with a pink shirt, I saw one daring gentleman in a ballerina costume complete with a tutu.
For more information about breast cancer awareness month, check out the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month website, which also has facts about detection and treatment.
Question: What causes are close to your heart and what are you doing to help?
Related Links:
The Goal Post: Committing to a Race
Fitness Products to Benefit Breast Cancer Awareness
