I initially got involved with Susan G. Komen For the Cure in 2005 when I was living in Philadelphia. My younger sister, Jill, had been diagnosed with breast cancer at 29. My mother is also a survivor, and we all felt inspired to walk that year.
My sister’s road has been long, but I am happy to report that she has been cancer free for nine years now. We all continue to walk because the
re are
so many other women like my sister that are diagnosed every year.
When we moved to South Florida in 2007, I got involved by fundraising and participating in the South Florida Race for the Cure events. I enjoy making pink ribbon themed jewelry to raise funds. I made the Pink Ribbon Honor Roll in 2014 and 2013 for my fundraising efforts.
When I was in between jobs, I had an opportunity to get even more involved by working in the West Palm Beach office in the Good Samaritan Hospital for a few months, where I provided office support. I really enjoyed working with the staff and volunteers – so much so that I continued to volunteer at their
community events and health fairs.
I frequently staff their table and provide literature and information to promote breast cancer awareness. Wherever I am, be it a tea party, girls’ softball game, or at a church health fair, I often tell my sister’s story to encourage young women to be self aware and vigilant about their screenings.
In 2015, much to my surprise, they honored me with the Outstanding New Volunteer Award.