|
BARBARA JO KIRSHBAUM 2010 AVON WALK FOR BREAST CANCER |
||||
|
Upland/DC Avon Walk for Breast Cancer....May 1-2, 2010, over 100 participants This walk was dedicated to Karen Abril who lost her fight against breast cancer on Mon. at 48 yrs. old. The idea of this walk began when we realized that Bob could no longer travel to the distance walks. I asked the Avon Foundation if I could create a local walk to coincide with the DC walk in Upland. Bob was so happy with that idea. We did not plan until about 10 days before, so who would have believed it would have been such a success. My plan was to do 13 mi/13mi. in the Upland area and include the San Antonio Comm. Hospital's Breast Center, since they received a $250,000 grant from the Avon Foundation. I really thought that I would be the only one walking to earn my DC shirt. However, we had over 100 participants during the 2 days. We had opening ceremonies with the connection of hands in the air and we had a connection ribbon to give to a survivor. In hind site, it is amazing how on a miniature scale we modeled the real thing. All of my family was involved and since they have all been involved over the years, they each took on their own responsibilities. We had pink arrows with Team California signs attached to them. We had 2 families that set up pit stops with signs, water, snacks, and enthusiasm. We had cars driving around and honking with water and snacks. Sharon, the Cheerio, flew down from northern California, to cheer for us. My dear friends from the beach surprised me, as did our good friends from La Canada. Some walkers started at the beginning at 6:30 and others joined us at the bagel shop 1 1/2 hours later. Everybody did their own thing. When we got to the Breast Center they gave everyone a tour. It looks like a fabulous spa and everyone got to see the beautiful plaque that is up to honor me and the Avon Foundation. They served fruit and water and had a poster made with my name and we were taking pictures in front of that for the newspaper. There were girl scouts giving out snacks and writing with sidewalk chalk (just like a 'real' walk). On the first day Bob was able to ride in the car for a couple of hours, but the 2nd day he just wanted to stay home, so I was very anxious to get back to him, so I just walked part way. My daughters Debra and Ronda took over. They presented me with my DC shirt at the Bagel shop. I was the only one to receive that, since this was not an official walk for any one else. Even so, I did receive donations from people that will go to my fundraising, because there was no fee to participate. Hopefully some people will sign up for the 'real' Avon walks this year! Each day ended at lunch: Mexican food on day one and pizza on day two. They even created a pink ribbon to walk through at the end. Thank you to the Avon Foundation for allowing us to do this. To each of you that participated I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I was overwhelmed and Bob was very happy that we were able to do this. So far, the Washington, DC/Upland walk has raised $6000 which will go to my Avon fundraising! Go Upland. Do you think the Foundation should consider Upland, CA for the 10th city walk? With love and appreciation, Barbara Jo Barbara Jo
Kirshbaum ONE HUNDRED+WALKS/ONE MILLION+DOLLARS |
||||