10th Annual Walk/Run for Awareness & Hope

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September 14, 2008
CBS Studio Center
Studio City, California

Once again, I’m surprised to learn that this is the 10th time this event has taken place. How is it that an Ovarian Cancer event is right in my own neighborhood yet this is the first time I’ve heard of it? If it weren’t for the Cancer Convention I attended two weeks prior, I’d still be in the dark about this Walk/Run. It was one of those wonderful people at Universal who gave me this brochure. I was so grateful to get it too.

This was an event where I knew there would be women in the throws of this disease. It was these women I wanted to help. Since it was too late to purchase a table or booth, I decided I would use this event to donate some of my books.

I called my son Heath, and asked him if he’d be willing to attend this event with me. I wanted him to carry a backpack filled with books. This way, when I found a woman who was in the battle, I’d give her a signed copy of my book. It was my time to give back and that’s what we did!

Although we weren’t able to get photos of everyone I gave books to, we did get some and here they are…

These beautiful women are dealing so bravely with this deadly disease. It was such an honor to walk with these ladies and their families. Unfortunately, many of the walkers/runners were participating in this event “In Memory” of a loved one lost to ovarian cancer. That was so sad to me.

I chose to do the 5K Walk since I believed that was the event where most of the women currently in treatment would be. I couldn’t imagine running or even doing a 10K walk while undergoing treatments. We all know how aggressive ovarian cancer treatments are…

Before each Run or Walk began, three of the Laker Girls warmed up the crowd with stretches and exercises. Everyone seemed to have lots of fun during this time. My son got an autographed photo of the Laker Girls to give to his nephew (my grandson). So I thought I should get one for my son since he’s a big Laker fan himself!

This event had lots of booths and tables - some related to fitness and some specifically for ovarian cancer. The doctors from the television show “The Doctors” also had a booth. There were always lots of people crowed around this booth!

At one table I met Lorie Lieberman from the Ovarian Cancer Coalition Of Greater California. This was a big bonus for me. She is an amazing woman and we connected quickly.

If you’d like to learn more about ovarian cancer, you can sign up for their newsletters. Perhaps you’d like to find support, learn about ovarian cancer events, get connected to others or even volunteer, the Ovarian Cancer Coalition can help. If you’d like more information visit their website.

This was a day I will always remember. It was a day filled with love, hugs and sometimes tears. The connection cannot be denied. There is recognition and heartache in truly knowing the journey these ladies are on. Once you have cancer, you never forget the devastation, the despair, and strength required to become a victor. I am so touched and filled with love for all.