Last week my mom got a note from a favorite nephew. His wife was just diagnosed with breast cancer. Mom called me and told me, "I was so proud to be able to say that you do this walk and raise money to fight this disease. It seemed to mean more than just saying how sorry I am.

Of course I’m happy my mom is proud but that’s not why I do this walk every year. I feel like – as a mother, as a daughter, as a friend – I have to.

When Ray’s mom died of breast cancer, I felt numb. I couldn’t walk 6 feet certainly not 60 miles. But every year I have gotten stronger in my resolve and my determination to fight for all the moms, daughters and friends that are losing the battle against breast cancer every year.

To those of you who buy the flamingos, to those of you who simply share your story I am so very thankful.

Won’t you please help us again this year? Every donation matters.