GALVESTON — When does the word breast cancer conjure up smiles, congeniality, energy and fun?
The 2009 D’Feet Breast Cancer “Celebration of Life” held Oct. 24 at Moody Gardens did just that.
As the sun rose about 6 a.m., people of all ages, shapes and sizes began descending on the visitor center and surrounding areas purposefully setting up the course, event tables, tents, signs, podium, sound system, golf carts, first aid stations, children’s play area, site of the Memorial Bird release complete with caged pigeons, food areas, water and all involved in this complex yet vital event.
Breast Cancer survivors were treated to chair massages by professional therapist, Pam Blacklock in the Sara P. Rose Breast Cancer Survivor Hospitality area chaired by Sue and Phil Overton. Dr. Michele Blackwell provided information on genetic testing.
Darlene James of the Houston Grand Opera sang a glorious tribute to America, and Sgt. Jimmie Gillane led the Galveston Sheriff’s Honor Guard, which brought patriotism to the moving event.
More than 2,500 runners, walkers and children completed the 5K and 10K races, the 5K walk through the Schlitterbahn Water Park and the 1K kids’ run.
They came from a variety of organizations, work places, schools and many were just good folks moving their bodies for a cause.
The Kids’ 1K race was a joy to view as many children had the opportunity to participate in this event, all receiving a medal and deluxe goody bag plus breakfast and lunch thanks to McDonalds and Sam’s Club.
The Galveston County Junior League provided free baby-sitting. The Lion’s Club, chaired by Jessie Bradshaw, coordinated activities for kids.
The Kiwanis Club helped with the racecourse as did many volunteers from Galveston College, Texas A&M, University of Texas Medical Branch, University of Houston, College of the Mainland, Jacobs Engineering in Clear Lake and much more.
The Oncology Nursing Society Nurses manned the first-aid stations and underwrote the costs of the kid’s party. So many others helped, both individuals and groups, that I can’t possibly name them all.
High kudos go to Dolly Warren, event director, and her husband, Mike, a great support for their dedicated efforts to energize, organize and steer this event.
Funds raised at this event provide free screening mammograms and free follow-up care to women in need ages 40-64.
Women can call 409-938-2327, the Galveston County Health District, to see if they qualify and schedule a mammogram.
I’m proud of Galveston County and its people for participating in such a worthwhile, collaborative, energetic event involving persons of all walks of life.
Families who shared this experience together can overcome any adversity, because love, togetherness and caring can conquer anything.
Volunteers run D’Feet and all money raised stays in the county and is used for their free screening mammogram program and free follows up care to catch breast cancer early.
Beverly McCormick lives in Galveston.
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