Relay for Life

The Berkeley County Relay for Life was Saturday and it was fantastic! Since the event, I've been thinking about this blog and trying to decide how to describe how wonderfully awesome I thought it was. So many people came out to support our team! It was a little like my wedding. A day filled with people who have been part of my life in so many of its different stages.

My best friend from college, Maria, drove from Lancaster to walk. As fellow survivors we are able to share stories and laugh about things that people who haven't been so closely involved with cancer just don't understand. My aunts, uncle, and cousins made the trip from Western Pennsylvania. My brother and his family and my cousin and her family came from Philadelphia. Brad's parents, sister, aunt and cousins all came to walk. Our team members came throughout the day (many of them staying ALL day) to visit and walk. My dad, brother, co-workers, neighbors, friends, and so many people who have helped us get through the past year came.

And, like my wedding reception, it was all a little overwhelming. The day seemed to move along so quickly and there were so many people to talk to. It seemed like there was always something going on, someone coming or going, and kids running everywhere. I was so tired! I truly appreciate every single person who came out to walk. I feel very blessed and loved.

This was the first time I experienced the luminary ceremony. It was very touching and emotional. There were luminaries in memory of my grandma, my mom, and many friends who have lost their battle. As I walked my final lap that evening holding the hands of my boys, I relized that was the fourth lap I had walked that day. Not too shabby considering my doctor didn't think I would ever get out of the wheelchair. The day reminded me that I have not been on this journey alone!

Thank you to my team, my friends, and my family! We couldn't fight this fight without you!