In Memory

In Celebration | In Memory | Share Your Story | Voices of the Race

Dedication of the 2003 Survivor Café to Geri Lester - by Wendy Rose Bice, reprinted with permission from the Observer & Eccentric Newspapers.

Involved with the Race as a Planning Committee member since its inception twelve years ago, Geri lost her battle to breast cancer in May 2003. The Survivor Café was dedicated to her memory.

Geri Lester

On June 21, 2003 some 30,000 men, women and children will converge on the grounds of Comerica Park for the 12^th annual Susan G. Komen Detroit Race for the Cure®.  I’ll be among the throng, immersed in the excitement and mission of this dynamic event, just as I have been for each of these past 12 years. 

Sadly though, this year will be different for me, for the Race.  This year, one of our friends will not be among us.

Twelve years ago, when my daughter was an infant, a dozen of us volunteered to help organize the 5K breast cancer awareness run and walk.  We hoped that a few hundred people who cared about this disease would join us at the Detroit Zoo on a springtime Saturday morning.  Imagine our surprise when 3,000 registered. 

In those days, we Race committee members wore many hats…from planners to beggars to laborers, establishing many traditions and routines.  We’d meet six to eight months in advance, always on Mondays, to begin our planning.  We debated logo colors, how many bagels to order and questioned whether we were soon going to outgrow the Zoo.  We remained steadfast in our mission to put forth positive breast health messages and always kept the needs of breast cancer survivors at the forefront, ensuring there would be a place for the weary to rest and opportunities to honor those women wearing pink visors.  On Race day, we gathered on the stage, a perfect vantage point to watch the early morning, sleepy-eyed crowds come to life.

Now, a dozen years and thousands of walkers and runners later, we can look back at the significant advancements of this race, and more importantly, in the treatment and diagnosis of breast cancer.  We know that some breast cancers can be prevented, thanks to studies concerning the drug Tamoxifen.  Researchers have identified two breast cancer risk genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2), allowing physicians to identify persons of high risk.  And, there has been a continued improvement in breast cancer chemotherapy, new drugs and drug combinations including the administration of chemotherapy prior to surgery, often allowing the cancer to be more easily removed. 

There are no age limits, no gender restrictions among the thousands of people who return annually, coming to share the mixture of camaraderie, joy and solemnity this Race for the Cure® brings.  It’s an addiction, I think.  We return because we feel so connected to those who stand beside us, silently or publicly honoring a friend, mother, sister or aunt…the women who’ve survived breast cancer.  We return because we want this disease to go away so badly.  And we return because we want to be touched by the breast cancer survivors …those brave wonderful women wearing pink visors. 

In this sea of emotion though, we – or at least I -- failed to notice one thing.  I never noticed the women who were there one year, but not the next.  I forgot that in between the cheering and singing and walking and running, women were home or in the hospital dying from breast cancer. 

It took my friend, Geri Lester, to remind me of that.  Last week, Geri passed away from the disease she fought so hard to beat, from the disease she devoted the last 20 years of her life to making less deadly.  Geri was one of our original dozen…she kvelled at the size of this event as much as any of us, all the while finding ways to make it a little better. 

Geri’s handiwork can be seen throughout the Race.  If you arrived early enough, you might have gotten a fruit smoothie, something Geri insisted on providing to volunteers and survivors even as the numbers of race participants exceeded 20,000.  No matter what the weather, Geri doggedly stood by her shake machine offering a tasty dose of healthy goodness.  Thanks to the limitless energy and brightness of volunteers like Geri, the Race for the Cure® has managed to constantly evolve, adding new features like this year’s Survivor Trolley, courtesy of Ford Motor Company.  The vehicle will lead off the Race, pink ribbons adorning the outside and breast cancer survivors who are not feeling quite up to a 5K or one mile walk sitting on the inside.  Geri was the first to reserve a seat. 

But it is Geri’s spirit that reminds us of the real reason why we continue to come.  Geri strove to touch each and every survivor, a sisterhood she knew all too well, and provide them with inspiration and promise…or at least a fruit smoothie and a smile.  She wanted the music of hope to ring in the ears of all who could hear, she wanted this disease to get up and fly away, never to break a human heart again. 

But, it has.

So this year, when the crowd falls silent to listen to the melodic sounds of the bagpiper, family members who have lost someone to breast cancer will release butterflies.  At least one of those delicate winged beauties will be in Geri’s memory.  Maybe it will be the one that inspires the next medical advance or the one that ever so lovingly reminds us to be sure to routinely conduct breast self-exams and see your doctor annually for clinical exams and mammograms. 

An Inspiration to Many

My wife Sherry recently passed away on June 3, 2010 after a four year courageous battle with breast cancer. She was diagnosed in June 2006 with Triple Negative breast cancer and underwent chemotherapy and radiation. In August 2007, Sherry and I participated in the 60 Mile walk in Michigan only 14 months after her surgery and only five months after completing grueling chemotherapy and radiation from August 2006 through March 2007. The 3-Day walk was one of our best times ever.

In December 2008, the breast cancer spread into her right lung and she was in the hospital for two weeks over the Christmas holidays. In April 2010, Sherry learned the breast cancer spread into her brain and into her left lung shortly thereafter. She continued to be a Pink Warrior throughout her fight and we love and miss her so much. I know she will be with me again on May 21, 2011 during the Detroit Race for the Cure.

Sherry was loved and an inspiration to many in the Highland and Milford Michigan area. During her struggles, she continued to work as a school bus driver and also was known for knitting dishrags and blankets and donating the proceeds to walkers in the 60 mile Susan G Komen Race for the Cure participants anonymously. This is just one example of many words of comfort that I received from a parent of one the children she transported daily on the school bus "Sherry loved her job as a school bus driver and we are so proud of her for her excellence. As so appropriately stated by one of the families whose children she drove this, these words portray beautifully " Miss Sherry". "Over the last three years, we were so blessed to have Sherry drive our Country Oaks children to school. There was never a morning she didn't have a smile to greet the kids (and moms too!) In the Spring and early Fall, we could hear the Tigers game blaring on the bus as she pulled into the sub. Only Miss Sherry would think to make a ride to & from school so much fun for the kids. She even rode the bus days when she wasn't feeling well enough to drive - just to greet the children. She said the kids kept her going. I think we would all agree, she showed so much courage, she kept us moms from dwelling on the little things. Your love of children and sweet spirit will never be forgotten by all of us. In the words of Winston Churchill "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give" Who better than Miss Sherry captured the essence of this? With love to her adoring family.?

Sherry was truly an amazing person and I am so proud to participate in the 2011 Susan G Komen Detroit Race for the Cure to bring attention to finding a cure. She continued to be a Pink Warrior throughout her fight and we love and miss her so much. I believe Sherry has touched many people in her life and I am so happy and proud to continue on her legacy.

-Kevin B.

A Friend Loved and Lost

I wasn’t going to submit a letter but after sharing my story with Mo at the early bird pickup, she suggested that I did. My best friend Alissa found out that she had breast cancer on Oct 1, 2009 (The first day of Breast Cancer Awareness Month) at the age of 33. She was devastated! I told her that I would be with her every step of the way. We had been friends for over 20 years. She had three surgeries to have the lump removed. Prior to starting chemo, she became pregnant. Against the advice from her doctor, she kept her baby. She had a beautiful baby girl named Rachael Diane on June 10, 2009. (Diane is after her mom that passed away 6 years ago from breast cancer). She also has a 17 year old son named Brandon.

September 16, 2009, Alissa and I attended the Race for the Cure Celebration banquet. Since I raised $1330 as an individual, I was invited. She was so excited to hear what the experts had to say. We spent the best night together, laughing and talking about the future.

Six days later she went for her last chemo treatment, and then she would get a double mastectomy in October. We thought this would be the end of her battle. Right before her chemo treatment, she had a tremendous amount of pain in her liver. They did several tests and found out that the cancer had come back. It had spread through her liver, back and lungs. They began a more aggressive chemo, then radiation. Nothing would work. She had an extremely aggressive cancer.

Alissa never wanted to inconvenience anyone. I would quietly sit beside her reading a magazine or watching TV. She wouldn’t complain, mostly she slept. My job would let me leave whenever I needed to, so I could be with her. I would try to stay positive for her, making small talk.

Unfortunately, the doctors told us there was nothing more they could do and sent her home. Hospice would be called in. It was so heartbreaking to watch my best friend dying. Plus, she has two wonderful children that would be without a mother.

With the help of her friends and family, we planned a fundraiser. All the money raised went to her children. The doctors didn’t think she’d make it to her fundraiser but she did. She walked in without a wheelchair. She was so weak but you could see the joy in her eyes as hundreds of people were cheering and clapping to support her. Eight days later on November 29, 2009, she passed at 34 years old.

This year I formed a team at my work and have created events to raise money for Race for the Cure. Last year, a very pregnant Alissa attended the Race. She was so inspired! She planned to walk with her children this year. Her friends and I will walk with her children in her memory.

Sincerely,

Natalie P. (Team Pelle Pelle, Inc.)

In Loving Memory of Tamika
 

For a Good Friend

To be able to walk with my daughter for the first time in memory of my good friend, Gina D. Moyer. At the age of 48 and a health care professional, she was so busy living for her children and earning accolades during her career, she neglected the most important part of her and that was her health. I sincerely hope that I can walk for her and others for many years to come until breast cancer is eradicated!

- Vickie H.

In Memory of Grandma

This was my first year to walk. I was amazed with the over pouring of people that truly care about the cause. I, as well as my 14-year-old daughter and 5-year-old son, walked in Memory of their grandmother, Joyce Lewicki. It was extra special for them because her birthday was the day before the race; it was kind of like a birthday present for her. Thanks for allowing us to give her a present this year. With love from Clinton Township.

- Shelly L.

In Memory of My Mom

My mother lost her battle to breast cancer March 16, 2008. She fought a good fight. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 25 and died at the age of 43. She was a strong and wonderful person. Her memory will live on forever.

      -Shawnta B.

A Woman of Courage and Strength

I lost my mom to breast cancer on April 19, 2009. She had been a survivor for nine years and was really strong. It's been really hard without her and we miss her a lot. Thank you.

      - Angie and family

Miss Michigan 1961 - A True Warrior

This will be my first year running the race or participating in this event even though I have had an experience with breast cancer that started back in 1977. My family and I were camping together when my Mom informed my Dad that she thought she may be sleeping on a rock beneath our tent. That morning, my father moved the tent and found no rock. It was breast cancer. The doctor only gave her a few short years to live and she fought like hell. I was six and my brother was four. At that age, I knew more than I ever needed to know about this horrible word called "cancer" I knew what mammograms and mastectomies were, as well as hysterectomies. I knew what chemo was, what shunts were, how a catheter worked. I knew all of this when I should of been learning the things of a normal 6-year old. The one thing I did learn more than anything was what it was like to be a WARRIOR! What it meant to fight for your life. I learned this from my Mom. My Mom was CORA LINDA MONTE, MISS MICHIGAN 1961 and breast cancer took her from my father, my brother, and me in March, 1985! My Mom wasn't there at my prom or to see me graduate from high school, college or the police academy. She wasn't there for my wedding, or the birth of my three daughters. She wasn't there for me to turn to when I needed a Mom to be there and because of all that, I have become my own warrior today. I learned from her that no matter what, the fight to succeed and live is the most important thing in life itself. WARRIORS LIVE FOREVER! Mom, you will forever live in my heart and the hearts of Sarah, Gabby and Mia Linda! I see your face every day when I look at Sarah. I know your here! I love you and miss you!

      - Clayton M.

Forever Loved

My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago. Her battle with the disease came to an end on April 13, 2008. She was a strong woman to me, and I pray that I am all the woman she would've ever hoped I would be. I love her so much and I miss her more and more everyday. I wish I had more time to see her smile and hear her voice. She loved God and she was determined not to feel sorry for herself.

      - LaTasha L.

A Mother of Nine; a Wonderful Woman

Cyndie C., diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000, was the mother of nine. The cancer returned in 2006 in her lungs and liver. In May of 2008, tumors were found in her brain. She passed away on February 16, 2009. My mom was a wonderful, caring, generous and beautiful person and will always be remembered.

      - Catanese

Keeping the Memories Alive

In February of 2005, my mother, Dolores K., was diagnosed with Inflammatory Breast Cancer. She battled this for two years with both chemo and radiation. This disease hits fast and hard. She fought it liked she lived her life, with her whole heart and stubborn determination. But after two years, the IBC had spread to her brain and was progressing throughout. She lost the fight in the end of December 2006. Both myself and sister have daughters ourselves and we will continue to teach our daughters to live life to its' fullest and approach all challenges head on like their Grandmother!

      - Lynette B.

A Touched Life

In Memory of Detria M.: Breast cancer awareness didn't mean much to me until I read the announcement of her passing. I'm not going to over look this matter as something that couldn't happen to me... God Bless!

      - Jessica R.

Remembering an Enduring Spirit

My good friend, Janet K., fought the good fight for three years, but she passed in January of 2005. I will always remember her bright smile, enduring spirit and the love she gave everyone, everyday.

      - Toni L.

Fighting in Memory of Mom

I am 38 years old. At 36 I was diagnosed with stage 2b infiltrating breast cancer. My 38 year old sister was diagnosed just months before me. I found the lump on a self breast exam just weeks after my yearly physical. Before my lumpectomy I was tested for the BRCA gene which was negative. My sister did not have the test in 2006 when we were diagnosed. She finally had the test in October of 2007. Her husband had to fight for her to have a new gene test along with the usual test, because she did not meet requirements for the new test. Thank God for her husband because she tested positive and I also tested positive. Since then I have had bilateral mastectomies. She will have her mastectomies next month. I am the youngest of 8 children, 4 of which are girls (3 of which tested positive). I went through months of chemo and radiation while working as a nurse and being a mother to 7 year old twin girls. They know more about this disease than they needed to know. I have been asked how I could stay so positive through everything (my brother died suddenly days before I started chemo). There is reason it was me. I don't know what that reason is but I help and talk to anyone who wants to ask me questions. My mother had breast cancer 20 years ago. While I was going through treatment my cousin was also diagnosed. Since then 2 cousins (sisters) have been diagnosed with breast and ovarian. I hope the rest will be tested. My mother died shortly before we were tested so we don't know if she had it. Life is too short not to live each day to the fullest. I again will walk on May 30th with my family. Thank you for your support in helping find a cure because I don't want my daughters to go through what I did.

      - Elizabeth R.

A Warrior

My wife, Isabel, passed away April 3, 2008 after a valiant 8 year battle with breast cancer. We were married for 33 years and I miss her so much, the only comfort I have is the fact that she is in a better place, no more chemo, radiation, etc. She was a warrior till the end. I would like nothing more than to see oncologists unemployed.

      - John W.

Fighting in Honor

This year I will be walking in memory of my best friend and hero... my mom, Karen. She passed away unexpectedly last month, from an illness unrelated to her breast cancer. She was extremely proud of her "survivor status" this year, and was looking forward to wearing her special shirt. She fought hard, and won the battle against breast cancer. In doing so, she made it her mission to raise awareness of the importance of early detection. My family, friends, and I will carry on this mission in her honor. She left behind a legacy of strength, courage, and a passion for life. We will celebrate her life and her memory as we walk this year, and for many years to come!

      - Lisa

A Step Further

I dedicate this walk to my Aunt Ann W. who passed away years ago from breast cancer; and to my grandmother who is a survivor. My sister, Tracey and I have been supporting the cause for some time now through donations and purchasing memorabilia. I finally decided to take it a step further by actually walking and raising monies. I hope that all of the contributions we make will take us a step closer to the cure. I can't wait to walk, I'm so excited!

      - Patricia N.

A Reason to Keep Walking

I was 14 years old when my father died suddenly of a massive heart attack. When I left for school in the morning he was there, when I returned he was not. One year later, 1975, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent a radical mastectomy. The cancer had not spread, no further treatment was needed. She did suffer from edema in her left arm but was cancer free for 10 years. In 1984 my mother felt a lump in her remaining breast. She did not go to the doctor for an entire year after finding the lump. She was scared of going through another radical mastectomy. This time she underwent a mastectomy with only partial lymph node removal. The lymph nodes removed tested positive. The cancer had spread. She died 4 1/2 years later. The cancer had spread to her bones, her lymph nodes, and her lungs. The pain was unbearable and she died a horrific, painful death. I was with her when she died and knew that she was finally free from pain. My mother was a strong woman that came to the United States in 1932 at the age of 16. She overcame language barriers, survived the Great Depression, and lived apart from my father for two years the day after they were married (June 18, 1942) because he was shipped to the Alleutian Islands for two years. When my father returned after the war, they began their family and raised four children. I was 14 when my father died and 30 when my mother died. I feel cheated. Neither of my parents were alive when my two daughters were born. This is my 16th consecutive year of walking in the Race for the Cure, and I will keep walking until there is a cure.

      - Mary Jo H.

Fighting and Remembering

My Grandma has breast cancer right now, it scares me. I know she can fight it. She's a fighter. But I'm scared because she is not the only one with it in my family. My cousin died a couple of years ago of cancer. She left her husband and one year old. Her child's last words to her were 'I love you', and then her mother died. My Grandma's sister-in-law has lung cancer again. My other Grandma is a breast cancer survivor.

      - Anonymous

Living Life to the Fullest

Where do I begin? I am a survivor of colon cancer and have been cancer free for 5 years now. I am also the mother of 4 beautiful kids. I would like to give something back. My grandmother died of a brain tumor 3 years ago. I enjoy life to the fullest. Thank you for listening to my story.

      - Elizabeth G.

The First and the Best

This year's Race for the Cure was the first time for me. I walked in memory of mother Carolyn O. that passed at about age 52, and in honor of my grandmother who is a three time survivor. This event was just as everyone stated "the best ever" and I will never miss another one.

      - Carrie P.

Walking in Honor of a Family Battle

In April of 1995, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, at age 60. Four days later, my 33 year old sister was also diagnosed. Both underwent radical surgery to remove their tumors. My mother's cancer had already spread to her lymph nodes, while my sisters remained confined to the breast. The next seven years, proved to be the roughest of our lives. After numerous rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, trial drugs and experimental treatments, my mother lost her battle. She fought a courageous battle and passed at the age of 67 on January 31, 2002. My sister, now 45, is doing well and has been cancer free for 12 years. I have participated in one race in the past, but hope to make this an annual event.

      - Lori R.

Remembering Marietta

Marietta was diagnosed in 1996 with stage 2 lobular almost two years after my heart attack and craniotomy. In the midst of massage therapy school she had a double mastectomy and chemo; finishing her class late because she had not enough energy to complete 'deep' muscle sessions. She was by my side as I went through a triple bypass and aortic valve change in October 1996. On August 31, 1997 we both watched (separately) the program where Andy Griffith was a grandfather with congestive heart failure and when his grandson died in an auto accident Andy was the recipient. After I turned off the t.v., my nurse coordinator called to say a heart had been found for me. Marietta was there within the hour. Her recurrences came and were dealt with; even a trans-flap. We came home to Michigan in 2001, to then face radiation during 2002. In 2004 we asked and were given timelines and subsequently spent early September on Lake Michigan viewing the most beautiful sunsets she asked for, in our quest for memorable moments. We were traveled to Chicago on September 23, our 38th anniversary to visit our daughter. Home again the ending of September she began to leave. Our children and her siblings that could came and on October 6, in her La-Z-Boy, all by her side she died. Marietta tried the meds best she could; hated the Adriamycin and 5FU; we sold our country home and went to the city because we learned what 5FU really meant; anxiety, paranoia and loneliness. Butterfly (her business-Gentle As A Butterfly) in her positive determination, tried the all alternatives that might impeded or even rid her of the 'rash'. But it moved to her abdomen. As I moved about the house in the months that followed, I found a book, Can you Come Here Where I Am?, signed by one of the authors, Kathryn Traynham. That book, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, The Breast Cancer Site, Gilda's Club, Hospice of Wake County, Raleigh, N.C., Hospice of Michigan, Marietta's courage and a gracious God have taught and daily remind me PINK IS NOT JUST FOR WOMEN. In the words of Jim Valvano (N.C. State NCAA basketball champions), NEVER GIVE UP!

      - Jerry D.

Never, Never, Never Quit

Kathleen...a wonderful wife, best friend, mother of Jennifer and Nicole was taken away from us by breast cancer in March 2002 at the age of 52. Not a day goes by that she is not thought of and missed; she fought the fight for 13 years and even up to the day she pasted away, never giving up hope. She was and is an inspiration to all of us ....Never, Never, Never quit was her motto. We love and miss you but know you are up there watching over us. Thank you for the short time we had you ......you will always be in our hearts. Love you forever- Chet, Jen and Nikki

      -Chet L.

A Family Joins Together in Love

My family and I are taking part in this Race in honor of our beloved Aunt Vernel (Cynthia C.). She is and will always be greatly missed for being such a strong woman who taught us all well and loved us deeply.

      -Noel M.

A Shining Star is Ever Present

In memory of my best friend's daughter, Carrie who was a shining star and lovely person. Carrie had just begun her life as a graduate of Pepperdine's University Law School. She always made her parents so proud. Carrie lost her battle in 2005 after 3 years that was courageously fought by her whole family. My heart, along with all who knew her, will forever be missing her.

      -Susan H.

Missing Mom

I just lost my young beautiful, special mother Debra Elizabeth B. on March 21, 2007, of breast cancer. I still feel like I'm dreaming, it is so unreal to me. She leaves three grandchildren (Alex, Tony, and Nico), and myself behind. We will all miss her so very, very much. Her life has ended at the age of 46. WE LOVE YOU MOM.

      -Lisa B.

A Mother's Courage

"Breast cancer" is familiar words to our family. My mother began her battle at the age of 29 in 1987. She was raising two children on her own and working three jobs to do so... Cancer was not an option. She fought and fought and went into remission for about 6 years. In 1993, I remember her sitting my brother and me down and telling us she was going to have to fight again. I was only 10 years old at the time, and had never heard of cancer. For four long years, we all watched her go through chemo, radiation, bone marrow transplants, homeopathic remedies, anything so she could "watch us graduate" as she always used to say. My brother and I were kept pretty clueless throughout everything, as she stated in her will that she "wanted us to grow up like normal kids, playing outside with our friends, instead of worrying about mom"... Well on Sunday, February 8, 1998, she was rushed to the emergency room while my brother and I were out to eat with my dad and she slipped into a coma later that evening. She lost her courageous battle with cancer on Monday, February 9, 1998 at the age of 38. I have run in races in memory of her ever since, and don't plan on stopping anytime soon. And just last month, her mother, my grandmother, was diagnosed with breast cancer and is now beginning her battle with chemotherapy and radiation. I run in memory of Kimberley H., the most courageous, ambitious, and loving mother anyone could ask for. I am also running in celebration of Gerladine F., who had to watch her daughter suffer and will still keep a positive attitude for fighting for her own life.

      -Lyndsey H.

Keep Your Heart Open to Love

My mother smoked a lot when I was little. Smoke really bothered me as I grew up with asthma. To this day I still have a scar on my ankle where they had to feed me through my veins when I was two. I grew up sick a lot with everything from bronchitis to pneumonia. My mother who was never sick one day coughed up blood. The Doctor told her she had to quit smoking. The one thing I thought she would never do, she had to do. From 1989 to 2002 my mother had not smoked one cigarette. My mother had smoked for over 20 years, but was to put it down for over 10. Her old ways outweighed her new ways. Even thought she quit smoking it was not enough. Early into 2002 my mother was diagnosed with Lung Cancer. As she battled cancer I saw her go from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows. Chemotherapy showed me how superhuman my mother really was. My mom is named Barbara and Lady B never quit believing. Mom began to profess her love for God and that it is not over until it's over. I never saw my mother in a position like this before that left her looking vulnerable. Her hair was gone, and weight was missing. Could this be the end? Only if it's the ends of the bread. I was afraid that I would never see her smile again. I felt so bad that I planned a trip in the summer of 2006 to take my kids to see their grandmother one last time. It was too great to spend that quality time with her once again. I still feared for the worst that was ahead. I was afraid to pick up the phone to call her because I thought someone would be on the other end to give me the news we were expecting. I decided to call her one-day to check on her. I asked her how her cancer was doing. She replied, I don't know because my cancer is gone. I no longer think too much about death because there is so much life left in all of us. My mother showed that no matter what you go through keep love in your heart and give it to anyone that comes into your life. When you think life is over it is really just beginning. Thank you mom, I love you. Your son,

      -Derrick H.

Still Grieving

My daughter, Marcie, age 36, died in April, 2005 from metastasized breast cancer. In 2004, she was initially diagnosed with breast cancer, and her prognosis was wonderful. She had a very small tumor, 1.4 cm. with no lymph node involvement. She elected to have the standard 4 rounds of chemo, and then decided to have a bilateral mastectomy just so she "wouldn't have to worry." Then in March, 2005, her primary physician found her abdomen swollen. After tests, it was revealed that it had gone to her liver. Her cancer, though, was HER-2/neu, and her doctor did not address this. She often asked him, and his reply was that he felt she was already over-medicated. We met with other doctors and she received the same odds. She died believing that she was going to beat it. Hope does spring eternal. She left us, her parents, her husband, and a five-year-old son, Jake. Marcie was the light of our lives, and that light has gone out. Somewhere in time I will be able to call up the wonderful memories, but right now, I am so filled with grief and anger that I am devastated.

      -Sandra Gale S.

A Mother's Story Inspires

I am a survivor!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My mom died in 1983-she was 57 and fought her battle with breast cancer with me by her side. I first walked in the Race for her. It was our Race. She's in my heart! I was 29 when she closed her eyes. In 2004, I went for my yearly mammogram a little scared about the lump I felt on the right. The doctors reassured me my cancer was discovered on the left. I joined the BCCCP and was treated successfully. I finished radiation shortly before my 50th birthday. In January I had a major scare-my colon-but it wasn't cancer-I am still recuperating and looking forward to the Race. I will walk again for mom and me!!!

       -Nancy

Angel in Heaven

I will be running for my wife Allison this year. She was diagnosed at 29 with stage 4 breast cancer and she bravely fought for almost four years before God called her to walk a different path in heaven in January 2005. Her dedication to raising funds and awareness for younger adults with cancer is unparalleled. She made a tremendous difference in our community (Allen Park) and touched so many lives with her story and bravery that I was and still am blessed that I was her primary caregiver. With love, honor and dedication to her memory I will run for her! God Bless my Angel in heaven!

       -Todd D.

Meg’s Marcher

This year marked the 5th anniversary of the passing of Meg M. She was a wife and mother of three children. She had not yet celebrated her 40th birthday. Some memories fade with time, but one memory that has not faded is Meg's burning desire that her little girl Lisa and all of the other little girls never, ever face breast cancer as a life threatening disease. For those of us Meg left behind, this is the 6th year our team, Meg's Marchers has participated in Komen Detroit Race for the Cure®. In 2000, the year of her death, Meg's Marchers was the largest family generated team. This year our team will have 80 members. We have five survivors and Meg's children to remind us and inspire us that Meg's dream will be realized.

       -Susanne M.

Keys to Survival

My mother-in-law MaryEllen was only 43 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had nine children at home under the age of 15 when she was diagnosed. She had a radical mastectomy in 1965. I did not know this until I fell in love with her son and became part of the family. I had surgery and my mother-in-law helped me recover and she shared her story of breast cancer with me. She was so courageous and brave. Her faith, family and determination were keys to her survival. She loved life, and I know she is dearly missed by all of us.

       -Debra Jean D.

Grandma

This year is going to be three years since my grandmother Gertrude passed from breast cancer. She got it back-to-back three years in a row (almost one year apart to-the-date each time). The last time there was nothing that they could do for her and she knew that. However, because of my grandma's struggle to hang on, I have the want to reach out and help as much as possible to raise money for more research. I know that it will help and hopefully save someone else. My daughter is four years old and she is also involved in raising money for cancer. I think that it is very important that people are aware about cancer. Grandma, God bless you! We all love you and miss you very much.

       -Erica L.

Inspired by Mom

My mother fought breast cancer for 12 years. Even though she has been gone for 14 years this June, she inspires me every day with the strength and courage she had. Shortly after her death, her sister died from it. In their memory, I give whatever I can to fight this for my daughter and myself.

       -Patricia M.

Remembering My Mom

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 45 and the doctors gave her a 50-50 chance of living five years. She fought for every one of those five years and passed away on Mother’s Day 1992. It was so hard watching her suffering through those years, but it was a blessing in some ways as well. It brought our family closer together and since my mom was such a fighter and loved people so much, through her illness, she was able to touch many lives that she never would have otherwise. I am thankful that I had such a wonderful mom, and I will always remember all the precious things she taught me about love, friendship and faith.

       -Cheryl D.

Never Too Young

One week after I celebrated my eighth birthday, my aunt died of breast cancer. The day we found out that she was battling cancer was a great shock to all of us. As she fought the disease, she lost a lot of weight, and soon became my size. One week before she died, she told me that God’s Angels were going to come down soon and take her to the gates – at that time, I had no clue what she meant. My whole family and I will never forget her and the wonderful things she did for everyone. R.I.P. Aunt Margie.

       -Emily G.

Creating a Legacy

My mother fought Breast Cancer for 12 years. Even though she has been gone for 14 years this June, she inspires me every day with the strength and courage she had. Shortly after her death, her sister died from breast cancer as well. In their memory, I give whatever I can to fight this for myself and my daughter.

       -Patricia M.

Always My Sister, Forever My Friend

My sister Dawn B., 45 years young, lost her battle with breast cancer on July 24, 2004. Her loss is still felt by her parents, 9 brothers and sisters, her husband, 5 children (ages 27, 24, 21, 16 and 13), 4 grandchildren and many friends. She fought her battle for nine courageous years, beginning with a mastectomy, reoccurrence, stem cell transplant, reoccurrence once again and numerous surgeries. She continued to fight until the very end not wanting to leave her husband, children and family. Over the years, she kept her “bad news cancer growth” to herself not wanting anyone to worry. At the end with no pulse, her strong heart beat on for days, baffling the nurses as to how she could hang on so long, with the cancer tumor so large you could see them protruding from her frail body of about 80 pounds. She always gave of herself and thought only of others. Because of Dawn's persistence for us to get mammograms and early detection, both my sister Dee and I are Cancer Survivors today. She is loved and missed beyond what words could ever explain. "Always my sister, forever my friend".

       -Bonnie S.

Friendships Never End

In 1996-1999 I worked at a bank. I had a co-worker there that I really got along with and we helped each other. She happens to be deaf, but communicates very well by reading lips. I left the company in 1999 and we just fell out of touch. I saw her in a Meijer store recently and she told me she had breast cancer. It broke my heart to see her looking so sad and with no hope. She was such a dear friend to me when we were working together, that I want to give something back in her honor (get involved somehow, volunteer). She would not want me to pity her but I think doing something in her honor would be something different. Please email me if I can do anything. Her name is Beverly.

       -Joann D.

Remembering A Special Niece

Twenty-five years ago I lost my sister, Lori, to breast cancer. She was 33 years old with four children – Michelle 13, Dawn 12, Brian 7 and Courtney 1. At that time they did not know much about cancer. Twenty-five years later, her oldest daughter, Michelle, a three time cancer survivor, passed away leaving two children, Tommy 14 and Alexandra 5. Michelle was the kindest person on earth. She was my special niece. When she entered a room, the whole room lit up. She always thought of other people first. When my mother, her grandmother, got sick, and even though she was sick herself, she wanted to help and do something for her grandmother. We will always remember Michelle as a fighter, sweet, beautiful, and the best friend any person could have. I am so proud to be Michelle’s uncle, godfather and friend. I will always miss her and never, ever forget her sweet voice.

       -Jerry D.

Being A Friend

I had a friend named Alice L. She was a beautiful person with a personality to match. She had a special way of listening to your problems. I gave her the time to talk about her dilemmas, which made me realize that my troubles, at the time, were minimal. She told me to deal with what she was going through. Well, eventually I had to. Being with her as she went through her battle, gave me the strength to persevere. I had the determination and drive that I would not let breast cancer get me down. I am 10 months away from my five year anniversary. Thank you Alice for listening.

       -Deirdre K.

It's Not Just a Woman's Thing

We Pray, We Cry, We Fight, We Walk

Nanny's Story

In Memory of Cathy P.

In Memory of Ellen H.

In Memory of June

My sister June H. had breast cancer in 1987 at the age of 32. She died in 1998 at the age of 43. She left behind two beautiful sons, David and Michael. We will miss you always, June.

       - Leah K.

Running for Lauren Ann

My dear friend Lauren Ann lost her battle with breast cancer on March 25, 2004. She has left us 3 beautiful children, Kaitlin, Ian, and Torrin, as well as her beloved husband, Earl. Lauren was one of my strongest role models of what a Mom should be. Her kids were her world. Everything else took 2nd place. Every good story I could tell you about Lauren revolves around her children. Her first pregnancy turned out to be double duty with fraternal twins. She LOVED having twins and enjoyed every moment of it. One of my favorite stories is that when she went in for her ultrasound with her 2nd pregnancy, she told them she didn't want to know the baby's sex, she just wanted to know how many! Lauren taught me so much about life. She's now broken my heart and taught me more than I ever wanted to face about this horrible disease of breast cancer and how it kills. I am proud to say that Lauren was my friend. I hope I can live up to the title for her, too. I will be running the 5k race on Saturday, June 5 for her and all the women and men touched by this illness. In loving memory, Sue.

       - Sue A.

An Angel of Inspiration

This is a breast cancer story with its beginnings in leukemia... In 1967, my aunt Dolly was diagnosed with leukemia and given 6 months to live. Her husband Paul rushed to the hospital in the middle of the night numerous times after having been called and told she would not make it through the night. She was given radiation and chemotherapy and went in and out of the hospital countless times over the next few years. Around 1969-70 when I was about 12 or 13 years old, and Dolly was still battling leukemia, Dolly taught me a lesson that became one of those life-changing moments that help mold who we are. My older sister, our friend Lucy and me went to stay at Dolly's house out of state. Dolly was the kind of person who was SO easy to talk to about just about anything. One evening as we were all sitting around "girl talking", Lucy asked Dolly if she could ask her a personal question. Dolly said "sure" and Lucy then said "Does it bother you knowing you're going to die?" There was a shocked hush from the rest of us in the room...how could anyone ask such a thing!?!? Dolly started laughing as we all stared not knowing what to do or say. She then looked Lucy right in the eye and said in a very serious tone, "Hasn't anyone told you YOU'RE going to die?" She went on to explain that we are ALL going to die someday and that it isn't up to the doctors when we go. Any of us could meet some unknown fate at any moment. She no more believed doctors who told her she wouldn't live more than 6 months any more than she believed in the man in the moon. By the 1990s, Dolly had had recurrences and remissions but had certainly beat the "6 months" prediction in the pants. She was diagnosed with breast cancer. This time, the doctors told her it was likely due to the primitive form of radiation she had had years ago to combat her leukemia. It didn't really matter to Dolly, though. She faced it head-on with the same courage, tenacity, and matter of fact attitude she'd always had. She had a mastectomy and went on with life, never succumbing to self pity or despair and never wasting a moment worrying about what the next day might bring. In March, 1998, Dolly's husband Paul took her for a chemo treatment. On the way home, they stopped at a store. Paul decided to stay in the car and wait for her. When she came back out, she found that Paul had passed away of a heart attack. That blow took a lot of the wind out of Dolly's sails but she carried on. In March, 1999, Dolly left us peacefully and joined her husband Paul in heaven to rest. She was an incredible inspiration in my life. I hope her story will help inspire others. EVERY DAY IS A GIFT!!! Doctors don't have all the answers. The fight is yours to meet. Attitude can make all the difference. In Dolly's case it was enough to change 6 months into 32 years!!!

       - Sue A.

Tribute to Patty

Our team, Patty's Knechtions, was formed after the death of my friend, Patty K. Patty lost her battle in February 2001, leaving her two small children (ages 2 & 4) behind, along with a loving husband, parents, sister, brother, and hundreds of friends and extended family. We never want to forget the strength Patty showed us all as she fought this disease. Every year we use the Komen Detroit Race for the Cure® as our annual tribute to Patty as well as our opportunity to contribute to finding a cure. Our team will be there again this year, with her lovely photo adorning the back of our shirts. Hope to see you all there.

       - Linda P.

A Tale of Two Stephanies

       Stephanie K, 9, and Stephanie Strother, 9, are best friends. The Hillside Elementary students also share something else: losing someone special in their lives to breast cancer. Stephanie Korona lost her grandmother to the disease; Stephanie Strother lost her mom to it two years ago.

       Stephanie K's mom Christine has been involved with the local Race for the Cure® for years, the effort that raises money for breast cancer research. This year the two Stephanies took it upon themselves to go about their neighborhoods with their collection cans in tow asking folks to donate to the Race for the Cure®. Their cans displayed pictures of their loved ones who were taken away because of the disease.

       Within a week they raised $500. “They’re fired up about it," Christine said. The two wore their Race for the Cure® T-shirts when they sought donations. Since the girls never expected to raise $500, they decided to make a goal of raising $1,000 by the end of July. They finished with a total of $1,200.

Life's Lessons and the Rainbow

       I've been part of the Race/Walk (Believe me, I walk!) for 8 years. I was active before I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and I'm proud to be a 4-year survivor. My story is probably all too familiar to many of you - discovered my cancer during a routine mammogram, then surgery, chemo, radiation. I had all the usual reactions - fear, sadness, worries about my family. THEN FATIGUE!

       However, I have found there are worse things than cancer. My pink ribbon has been replaced by a black/red one - the symbol of the grief support group Parents of Murdered Children. On August 17, 2002, my daughter Chris was murdered in her own home. She left two sons, then 8 and 18. Thankfully, neither of them was there at the time. Her accused murderer was then 18.

       All the methods of coping with my cancer came into use. I recalled the value of patience, of looking past each day, of looking past the present pain and concentrating on the future, hopefully one of wellness and peace. I once again prayed for inner peace, not to fear the darkness, not to worry about the small things that don't matter. I remembered, again, to appreciate my family, my friends, to graciously accept the help offered by others. All the lessons I learned dealing with cancer became an integral part of my coping with the violent death of my daughter.

       I know now, that there doesn't have to be a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow - the rainbow itself is enough. If anyone has time or inclination, our trial starts November 18 - we gratefully accept all prayers and good thoughts. I will see you all at the 2004 Race - we never miss the opportunity to celebrate.

       - Marcia R.

Rev. 1-26-2011