I’ve committed to participating in the Avon 2 Day Walk for Breast Cancer in May. It’s a big commitment, one that will require me to spend the next several months training and fundraising. But breast cancer is a big disease, one that still affects far too many people, and I’m determined to do everything I can to help put an end to it. The money I raise will be managed and disbursed by the Avon Foundation Breast Cancer Crusade to help provide access to care for those that most need it, fund educational programs, and accelerate research into new treatments and potential cures. I’ll be just one of thousands of people that will walk up to a marathon and a half over a weekend, raising awareness of the cause and educating even more people.

I can’t do it without your help. Though I’m required to raise at least $1,800 in donations.  I have decided to make a limited series of tote bags.  For a minimum donation of $75 to the Avon Breast Cancer fund, you can have one of these bags.  I designed them and am producing them myself.  They are very sturdy.  The Black fabric is Sunbrella, which is an acrylic canvas, mildew resistant, fade-proof and very durable.  The straps are black nylon webbing which can hold hundreds of pounds or small children.  I’ve used a really cool, sewing themed fabric for the pockets, of which there are six.  The interior of the bag is made of a colorful fabric and there is a reinforced panel in the bottom of the bag.  Each bag has a custom logo patch on the upper corner, with real buttons sewn on.  I have paid for all the materials, so that ALL OF YOUR DONATION goes to the Breast Cancer Fund.   The  only thing you need to do, is visit the following URL, to make your donation to my pledge.  Then, we can arrange for you to pick up your tote bag.  Any size donation is very welcome.  So, even if it is $5, it does help and I am grateful.

http://tinyurl.com/laurawirkkala

My grandmother died at the age of 61.  It was a combination of lung cancer, breast cancer and finally brain cancer.  My daughter’s Great Aunt just lost her battle with cancer in January of 2009.  I picture Grandma Wirkkala above.  (I just received a picture of Joan that I will scan and post here.)  Luckily, I do have a good handful of friends who have survived this disease.  And, it is because of generous support from people like you, who have allowed them to live their lives fully.