It's hard to capture how I'm feeling about my participation this year in this amazing and beloved event. In 2013, I had the unfortunate experience of attending three separate memorial services; all for children and all in support of the wonderful parents and very dear friends of mine who lost those children. Additionally, we recently lost one of our strongest and most loved advocates in our St. Baldrick's community; our 10-year-old ninja hero, Justin Miller, who passed away after his 7.5 year battle. For me personally, in the last year, I had the unfortunate experience of learning about and coping with the knowledge that one of the most important and influential women in my life was diagnosed with breast cancer - for the second time in sixteen years. Lucky for me and my family, she is a true hero and champion and came out of the experience once again cancer free and ready to live the rest of her life in her dream home with her soul mate who never once left her side during the surgeries, the chemo treatments, the painful side effects of medications. Her soul mate, who so graciously endured the unpleasant task of scooping the litter box for their two cats; a chore that he loathed and yet gladly completed, as well as the laundry, the cooking, the cleaning, the driving to appointments. I mention this because it's not only a true testament of love but also to show how cancer affects and involves all those close to the person who is fighting his or her battle. So this year, I dedicate my fundraising not only to all those children and adults living with disease. I also dedicate it to all of the partners, moms, dads, sons, daughters, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, grandparents, grandchildren, friends, etc. who are also affected by their loved one's disease. It is a devastating disease and a thankless job for all involved. Thankless and yet I wouldn't have it any other way. Would you??