#6 Power is Teal - September 21, 2013

#6 - Power is Teal Walk for Ovarian Cancer  September 21, 2013.

This started poorly.  First, I realize that I have no teal clothing.  I do have the shirt for the event, but after participating in a number of walks, thus far, you really need to have the chosen color for all accessories. (Boas, gloves, hats, shin guards, whatever.)  Light blue simply will not do.

Secondly, it is raining.  Actually, I should be grateful.  It had been pouring.  Now it's only raining.  After arriving at the Lunken playfield, we discover a muddy mess.  And it's chilly. 

(Yeah, I know....first world problems.)

By the time the walk actually starts, it has stopped raining.  We (a group of neighbors, friends and family) are walking in honor of Martha.  Martha, a 3-year survivor, is in charge. (of course, she is.) She is on stage, making announcements, herding survivors over for a photo, announcing that raffle tickets are still available, reminding folks that the auction takes place after the walk, etc. Her family is volunteering for this event serving on the set-up committee, registration booth and "whatever-else-needs-to-be-done" committee.

The ovarian cancer walk is significantly smaller than the walk last week to support breast cancer.  According to various studies, breast cancer will strike 1 woman out of 8.  Ovarian cancer will strike 1 woman out of 67.  Often called a "silent" cancer, some of the symptoms of ovarian cancer (persistent indigestion, low back pain, loss of appetite or quickly feeling full, persistent lack of energy) are often ignored or attributed to digestive discomfort.

While not as populated as the breast cancer group, this teal group is equally as fervent as their pink counterparts.  The edict to "Know Your Body" in order to detect ovarian cancer early, comes through loud and clear.

Again, I am touched and amazed by the teams of supporters that surround these individuals in their moment of need.  This supportive walk is just the tip of the iceberg for the legion of family and friends who organized dinners, arranged for carpool pick-ups, ran errands, and sat in doctor's offices with her because there was a need.  

Power IS Teal.