I have made a commitment to a very special and powerful event in the fight against breast cancer. I will be joining my sister, Annette Hirner, my sister-in-law, Lila Jones, my neice, Krista Hirner, and others to walk from Enumclaw to Seattle in 3 days (60 miles) for AVON BREAST CANCER 3-DAYwalk August 9-11, 2002.

My sister, Annie, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992 and will be celebrating being a 10 year cancer survivor on November 4th of this year. Annie had a mastectomy, followed by six months of chemotherapy (which was very hard on her body and spirit) in 1992. She was (and still is) so courageous! Annie is a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, employer, and friend to many! Today, Annie is not just my sister but my best friend. We have come to learn what "family" is really all about. For her, and for all my "sisters" in the world, is why I am going to try and complete this walk with them. I am not in the greatest shape but I am willing to give it my best shot! Whether or not I complete this walk,I know that I will still get back so much more than I could ever give. HOPE, LOVE, AWARENESS, EMPATHY, FRIENDSHIP, SUPPORT, HUGS, AND TEARS is just a little of the benefits I will receive back. We are also walking for YOUR wife, daughter, mother, aunt, grandchildren, and even men (yes, men get it also).

One out of nine women in the United States alone will develop breast cancer. EVERY woman is at risk. 70% of cases occur in women with NO identifiable risk factors. My sister is one. So please take a moment to share in our concern for affordable prevention, treatment, and awareness of breast cancer. Please donate whatever you can afford, but remember, none of us can afford NOT to get involved!

My gratitude to you in advance.

Bernie Sanderson