I am a 3-Day Walker.  How did that happen, you ask?  It seems I have always been involved in fundraising activities for different causes.  One cause I had always been involved in is the Komen Race for the Cure.  I have many shirts from walks in different cities and states.  Then, several years ago, my friend Laura C Bravo was diagnosed with breast cancer.  At the time, this was the closest the disease had been for me.  Some of her husband's cousins formed a team to walk in the 3-Day.

Unfortunately, after a brave and graceful fight, Laura passed away a week before the start of that first AZ 3-Day walk.  The team ended up walking in Laura's memory.

In late 2005, I had one of those “milestone” birthdays.  And that spring, I thought, I do not want to look back when I am 70 and have regrets that I did not sign up for the 3-Day.  So, I did it – I signed up to walk in 2006.

And do I remember the blisters and the pain?  Honestly, yes.  But what I really remember is the event, the cause and the amazing people I met during that walk and at each walk since.  It is now 19 years later and Tampa Bay will be my 30th walk!

Am I passionate about this cause?  Yes.