Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® - 2011 Washington D.C.

I was honored to be invited to participate in the

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure®

on the National Mall. I had an opportunity to be in attendance to meet and greet attendees who would visit the Global Tour Pink Bus that provided relevant information through a computer simulated program for everyone who participated. I met attendees who were there walking or racing in loving memory for a family member or friend, others who were there to celebrate life as "Survivors" or there to support the organization as they work to find a cure. Most touching were the young children who were walking for and with their mothers, aunts and grandmothers who were fighting or survived breast cancer.

Until there is a cure we all have to be vigilant in being aware of early detection, yearly exams as needed based on age or history and knowing your body to address any changes. This is not a disease that only affect women, it has been a equal opportunity disease and men and women have the same battle ahead in working together to find a cure for breast cancer. Look forward to volunteering again next year and for any other events and opportunities they have in our area.

Sandra Bryan-Grier
Mrs. Maryland International 2011