"Well, I did it! Again! I walked 60 miles in 3 days. I did much better this time too! A couple of blisters, but I could actually still run at the end. I think I could have gone for 10 more miles! We showed up in Del Mar on day one at the crack of dawn (and I’m not kidding); I wasn’t going to “officially” check in because I still haven’t raised the required $2200 but I didn’t want my friend (actually she is my boss) to walk alone, so I figured I’d just walk “unofficially”. Well, after a very emotional opening ceremony, I couldn’t help myself. Luckily I packed my bags the night before (just in case) & I took the leap of faith and checked in so that I could have the added pleasure of sleeping on the ground in a tent after walking 20 miles a day. I put a sign on my butt that said “I still need $1400” (don’t laugh; I actually received $70 dollars in donations just from the sign). Danny thinks I’m a little crazy (ok he knows I am) but he brought my luggage to camp that night anyway.
I’ve attached some of the pictures of sights we saw along the way. People go to great lengths to cheer us on & you can’t imagine how much it helps. Distraction is a powerful tool! We laugh, we cry, we share stories & experiences and in the end without a doubt it is all worth it One of the many highlights of the first day was at Pit Stop 4, where sea lions played in the surf while we relaxed and rehydrated. On Day Two, the Texas CowBelles (see picture of the ladies dressed as cows) were out on the route bright and early to greet us and keep us motivated. I have definitely learned to appreciate the “porta pottie”! On the final day, the community support was incredible. We were provided with everything from warm chips & salsa from local restaurants to popsicles, cookies, water, and candy from local families, & crazy people dressed up in bizarre outfits to make us laugh. The final miles of our journey were lined with loved ones and supporters. The “Barbie Girls” cheered for us, while local Brownie Troops sang to keep us going.
I have to confess, I cried like a baby (again) when I reached the final holding area. Not so much from pain this time, but from an incredible sense purpose and accomplishment. . Then came Closing Ceremonies, where we celebrated the final 2007 3-Day and our steps toward a future without breast cancer.
I want to express my sincere thanks to all of you who have supported me on this journey. I received donations and support from the most unexpected places. Please know how much I appreciate your help and that you are supporting a worthy & necessary cause.
For those of you who would still like to donate, I’m still about $800 short. There is a link to my website below where you can donate directly. You will receive a receipt for all donations-it’s tax deductible. I have until the beginning of January to raise the money. I know this is the worst time of year as far as money goes, but maybe it is also the best time of year to support such a good cause. I’ll send more picture’s soon. My friend was the photographer & I haven’t received her copies yet."
To donate:
http://www.the3day.org/sandiego07/maryhellyar
My mom is in the white shirt
1 comment:
That is incredible; good for your mom. I will see if I can scrounge up some money for the cause for her. tell her good luck!
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