Although I am excited to be able to participate in this amazing event again this year, it is also the time of year when I reflect upon why I feel compelled to participate year after year. It’s been 16 years since my mom lost her 25 year battle with breast cancer. She would be 83 years old. Shealie and Sarah had both just turned 1 years old and Grace was just a twinkle in my brother Jeff and his wife, Jen’s eyes. Shealie and Sarah are now 17 and juniors in high school! They are driving, dating and have part time jobs. Grace is in 6th grade. She plays piano as well as playing the snare drums for both bands at her intermediate school. Last year I had the chance to see Sarah perform with her high school Show Choir. I also went to see Grace at her piano recital last spring. I am hoping to get to Ely this spring to see Shealie play as the 1st clarinet of her high school band. These are just a few of the special events that we go to, but there is always that sense that someone is missing.
I can only imagine how difficult it was for my mom to decide that she couldn’t do another round of chemo…that enough was enough and that she had fought hard enough for long enough. I remember when she first told me this. I’m ashamed to say that at first I was in denial and tried to urge her to continue fighting. But after a few days of reflection, I knew that it was time and I’m glad that I had the opportunity to tell her that I understood and supported her decision.
Now I hope that you will continue to support my decision to keep on walking the 3-Day, even if I don’t walk all 3 days. I truly can’t do this without your support!
Love, Lorna
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