Think Pink

Yes, I am finally posting the photos for Race for the Cure. This event is just one of many put on around the nation to raise awareness and funding for breast cancer. A co-worker of mine had a friend who died from breast cancer, so every year her husband's company pays for as many people to attend as they can get on their team. The Salt Lake City event has been put on for over a decade and this is my fourth year attending. It begins and ends at the Gateway in downtown Salt Lake. I went the first year because everyone else was, but the feeling and spirit there is so insiring that I love going. Most people who attend have been deeply affected by the disease and they approach the event with everything from triumph and accomplishment, to encouragement, support, sisterhood, and even humor. Feather boas, decorative hats, colorful t-shirts, and funny slogans identify teams and bring levity to an often disheartening subject. Warning: Some of the pictures may be a little bold for some.

People often bring family members, and as you can see my friend Nichole brought her dog.

The route is always packed and it usually takes us around 10 to 15 minutes to even reach the starting line. It is marked by the balloon arch.

Anyone who knows someone or has been affected by the disease wears a pink sign with their name. "In Memory of..." identifies those who have died; "In Celebration of..." names those who have survived.

The route is lined with members of the community and volunteer cheerleaders who cheer "Early detection is the best protection."

We often pass whole families walking in memory of a loved one.

Many people have t-shirts printed for their entire team or group.

One group of men evidently felt passionate about the cause. They wore the t-shirt below.

You often see someone attending who is in the middle of her treatment. It is always surprising to see the number of people who know several women affected.

Gram was well represented.