2010 In the History Books

Okay, I shamefully took some time away from blogging. Really, after the 2010 walk I just needed a break. Well, break time is over and I am ready to jump back in. This was another wonderful year for Team Piggy. As a team, we raised over $16,000 and the San Diego event raised $10.6 million-- all for breast cancer research and education! With the exception of a little rain, okay, a lot of rain, it was an amazing 3-Days.


My 3-peat was especially special because not only did my sister, Sharlee walk, but I also got to see two of my cousins who I haven't seen in over 15 years. One of my cousins, Pamela, is a breast cancer survivor and the 2010 3-Day just happened to fall on her 5 year anniversary.

Me, Pamela and Sarah: my cousins

Day 1 started out pretty nice, not the California weather I'd hoped for, but still okay. I was asked to carry the "My Hero" flag in Opening and Closing Ceremonies. Needless to say it was an emotional ceremony.



Me and the My Hero flag




My mom's name is on one of those little ribbons.




Sharlee and I in our rain gear.



Day 2 turned into something similar to the apocalypse. There was wind and rain, and a lot of it! ALL DAY! There were several moments when I was ready to call it quits, but in the end, I figured what we were going through wasn't anything compared to what a cancer patient goes through. I have to admit, I didn't see much of my team. Sharlee and I walked to together. Sometimes we wouldn't talk to each other for long periods of time because trying to talk through the wind and rain was just too hard. Luckily mine and Sharlee's tent was still standing (and amazingly dry inside) when we made it back to camp. Other 3-Dayers weren't so lucky.




A very wet 3-Day camp.



Rain, rain, go away.......

 

Day 3, well, it was a mixed bag. The day started out nice then it rained and finally the skies cleared just in time for Closing Ceremonies. Walking into PetCo Park is always emotional. Sidewalks are lined with people; locals, family members and all the wonderful Walker Stalkers welcoming us "home". Closing Ceremonies was incredible. I, again, got to carry the "My Hero" flag. Though I couldn't see the rest of Team Piggy in the crowd, I knew they were there. The most emotional part, by far, is when the Survivors all walk in together. My sister in law Debbi and Pamela were in that sea of pink and I couldn't be more proud of them. As a way of honoring all the survivors, everyone holds up one of their shoes. Those shoes symbolize so much.

Through all the bad weather, the ups and downs and even it being my 3rd year, it is still the most amazing experience. Each year it just gets better. Yep, you heard it...look out 2011, I'll be there. After all, it can't rain two years in a row....can it?



Team Piggy 2010