It's a Pink Ribbon Thing

The cousin Marni made me proud last month when she spent a beautiful weekend walking thirty miles to raise more than $1,000 for breast cancer research. She’s my hero.

I couldn’t be bothered — it was, after all, the Georgia Music Hall of Fame induction ceremony weekend, and I had to spend the day getting dolled up for my beloved R.E.M. But I donated money.

Well, I should be ashamed. I can do more than write a check. (Heck, I didn’t even put forth that much effort; I just plugged my credit card number in the online form.) I need to do something for those I love, those who have been touched by breast cancer, those who may one day face it.

My sister-in-law was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago. She’s doing well, and it appears the surgery and treatment knocked out those evil cells, but it’s still a frightening experience. And she has to live with the fear every day.

My great-aunt, one of the relatives who helped raise my mom and her sister, was hit with breast cancer in the early 1960s. She had a radical mastectomy and was fine — but eventually died of another form of cancer in the late 1970s.

Marni’s mother battled breast cancer. Her maternal grandmother died from it.

A very dear friend's husband has had breast cancer. Twice. And my CEO — a man I respect and adore — has a form of cancer related to breast cancer. Yes, guys, it can hit you, too.

Tenacious S wrote a great post this week about her mom’s battle with breast cancer. It’s worth the click-and-read. Bluez628 will be a four-year survivor in February. Applaud her bravery and good health.

I needed to do something.

So I took the plunge. I joined Lulu, Tenacious S, and Schmeckman in donating photos for the Fifth Annual Boobie-Thon — one covered, one uncovered.

One of My Boobie-Thon Contributions

The organizers have raised thousands of dollars over the past five years by posting these photos (anonymously, I might add). You can check out the covered breasts for free … but you must contribute at least $50 to gain bare-breast access. I’ve peeked at those pages … and (as Teri Hatcher said on “Seinfeld”) they’re spectacular, well worth the tax-deductible contribution.

Old Lady may join us; why don’t you? Or pay the $50 to check out real women trying to make a difference. Or make a donation to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Just do something.

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