Another Race for the Cure

One year ago tomorrow a couple of friends and I Raced for the Cure. We drove to downtown Kansas City in the wee hours of the morning, donned in our pink hats and T-shirts, all to show a force against breast cancer. Coordinating our locations via cell phone calls, we met up, set up, warmed up, and headed out. I ran a 5K in honor of my mother who passed away in 2006, while my best friend, Debbie, ran for herself, a survivor.

I had my iPod and Blistex on board, while Deb ran nude of such frivolities. I'd been training for many months and felt more than ready for the occasion, while my BFF wondered how she'd do after minimal preparation. It was hotter than blazes and the humidity was down right evil. The mix of thick moist hot air along with the wicked hills of downtown KC, made it impossible to cool off. I dumped water on myself and ran in every shaded area I could find, all to no avail. I walked a couple of times during the race, which burst my bubble toot sweet. By the time I hit the finish line I was down right irritable and thoroughly disappointed.

I feverishly searched for water, only to find a truck bed loaded with bottles of warm disgusting water. I hadn't yet met up with Jimmy and Dani, so I perched on a fountain's ledge and leaned back to stick my hands in the cold water until they arrived. I could not believe how hot and miserable it was. My friend Debbie came in after me but in much better shape. She never walked and wasn't nearly as aggravated by the heat. I remember it all as if it were yesterday.

A lot has happen in one year's time. Because of recent surgery, I'm in no condition to walk the course let alone run it, but my heart is with all who will attend tomorrow's event just the same. Since last year I know more women battling breast cancer, making the cause all the more special. I'm thrilled to see that the forecast calls for a morning temperature of 61 gorgeous degrees, which I am sure will be a far more pleasant cry than last year's steamy start. I will not be attending the event and will miss the last quarter mile run where the 5K runners merge with the 1 mile walkers. From the runner's point of view coming down the hill, it looks like two pink rivers forking together. I can't explain it other than to say the unity of so many coming together as one reminded me of heaven. It was simply breathtaking.

I'll be in the church pew tomorrow praying for all participants of the race. May the Lord be with each and every one of you!