This spectacular view greeted me early this morning. September gives up the best sunrises I think! I was up early as I have been every Sunday on this day for the past 10 years to participate in the annual Toronto Beaches Terry Fox Run. As many of you know from past posts on this day (here and here), Terry Fox is my hero, and my first crush, even before Mike Palmateer! His courage, determination and belief in the power of hope is an inspiration to so many who have been in contact with this devastation we call cancer. He taught a nation to believe in miracles.
For me, the run has always been a time to reflect and remember all those I have lost to this battle. I admit my first 5 kilometres are pretty teary. Today’s 10 kilometre boardwalk route surprisingly did not bring tears. This Terry Fox Run was personal! When filling out the card that says “I’m running for…” I had to add a new name to the list. My sister’s. Earlier this summer my sister Jen was diagnosed with breast cancer. You can imagine it rocked our world.
Luckily for Jen, her breast cancer was caught early in a routine mammogram. She has had one surgery and will be going in for a second tomorrow but the prognosis is good. It was caught in time. After a round of radiation later this fall we are all hoping Jen will have kicked cancer’s ass. We are fortunate!
My post today is meant to kick your ass. If you are in a risk category for cancer, or of a certain age when tests should be done, get them done! I know that getting your boobs or dangly bits squeezed in a vice is not like, say, going for ice cream. But what if it saves your life? I am having my mammogram this Wednesday. I would also urge you to participate in your local Terry Fox Run. It is a good cause and a healthy way to spend a beautiful Sunday morning!
If you cannot get out today, and you would still like to participate in some way, I have set up a donation page here. Please give what you can. For my part, I am going to continue participating in Terry’s run until the day I have no more new names to write on my “I’m running for” card. I believe in Terry’s dream that cancer can be beaten!
Hi, I’m Patti, wonderer, wanderer and photographer. During the week I’m a marketer in the publishing industry and on weekends I take to the road to explore this beautiful planet we live on. 
Oh Pat – I know what you are going through. I didn’t know Jen was dealing with the breast cancer issue too. I am not sure as a sister that we totally understand what our siblings are dealing with. My sister was diagnosed in April and has had surgery and now is dealing with chemo and then radiation. All we can do as family is support them the best we can and be there if they need help. Thinking of Jen and you and the rest of the family as you deal with this. Wishing you the best. Chris
Chris, I didn’t know your news either. You are right though – I certainly do not know how to help (if I even can) but I do know we appreciate our time together more. A lot more check in’s and I love you’s. Thanks for letting me know and hugs to you too.
I am devastated to learn of Jen’s struggle! So happy to hear though that it was caught early! I will keep her in my thoughts and prayers. Sending hugs and positive vibes her way,and,you,as well as the entire family! 🙂
Thanks for the positive vibes Dianne – so very much appreciated!
I love you my dear sister! Thanks for all the support you give me!
Love you right back dear Jen!