The Power of 39

I’m a proud sister. Last month I cheered Blythe on as she walked in the Avon 39 The Walk to End Breast Cancer in Houston. Blythe’s 39 was personal. Blythe was diagnosed with breast cancer in August of 2016. Thankfully hers was stage 0 and local. She was treated with a lumpectomy, radiation and oral chemo. Nearly two years later, Blythe is in remission and doing great! She is an inspiration to me and much tougher than I ever could be. I thank God daily for her and her health. She did 6 weeks of radiation while working full time, being a mom to her two boys, and wife to a pilot hubby who travels regularly. In addition to training to walk 39 miles in two days, Blythe also raised $3000 for Avon Foundation. She was committed to her training, and toward the end, she was walking 18+ miles on Saturdays. Blythe’s training partner was her friend and neighbor MiLisa, who joined her on her long walks. I can’t imagine doing this walk without having a training partner!

Day one was tough – over 25 miles. It proved very challenging for Blythe to stay hydrated and consume enough calories. She and Milisa pushed through and finished strong. On Day two, I loved watching Blythe’s boys run to her as she approached the finish line and cross with her. Everyone got a little teary! The culmination of the two-day event was watching Blythe help carry the survivor sign at the closing ceremonies. I am so glad I got to be there!

The Avon 39 walk was such an amazing experience. The families and volunteers at the Houston event followed the route to stay ahead of the walkers to cheer them on. The walk wound through some of central Houston’s oldest and most beautiful neighborhoods. The signs were inspirational and often hilarious. Watching as survivors and women currently in treatment walk mile after mile was inspiring! AVON 39 The Walk to End Breast Cancer is the largest fundraising event for the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade. Since its launch by the Avon Foundation for Women in 2003, more than 235,000 participants have raised nearly $620,000,000 in the fight to end breast cancer. Funds raised at each event provide direct impact in the area where the event takes place, and also help make sure that care and research programs nationwide have adequate resources to make the most progress possible.

Next Year

This event made a lasting impact on me. The positive spirit, support, and fellowship at the event were beautiful. Blythe and MiLisa are planning to walk again next year and I will be there to cheer them on! Thank you for the inspiration, sister. Love You!

#Fierce is Forever