GYRIG 4-Mile

So, most of you know by now that my younger brother, Joe, was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer back in 2010.  He was 26 years old and with no family history of this disease, we were all floored.  I credit, you, Sara Grace, for keeping me sane, for I was pregnant with you at the time, and I knew that I had to keep it together for the sake of all of us.  It was a rough time, but somehow, we made it through to the other side.  Joey is cancer free now, and living a full and "normal" (whatever normal is, these days) life.

The Get Your Rear In Gear (GYRIG)/Colon Cancer Alliance (CCA) organization is one of the website I utilized when Joey was sick.  I got helpful information from them, and made a few contacts there, should we ever (hopefully not) need them again.

I wanted to go the first year Team Joey Can Beat it was formed, but as luck would have it, I was in the hospital with a brand new baby.  Actually, Joey was in the hospital, as well, due to a chemo/cancer related issue.  So, they walked without us.  They had a great time, and we planned to go back.  Well, this was the year.

It was a great walk.  A great opportunity to be a part of this great organization.  A great opportunity to give back, the way so many people gave to us during our time of need.  It was great to see the survivors walking with us.  I know I don't take for granted for one second that my brother is here and able to participate.  Seeing the people walking with "In Memory Of" signs on their backs really drove that point home.

We had a pretty big group, one of the biggest.  The amount of support that still surrounds the family is amazing.

Before I put up some pics, I just want to say that you don't need to have a family history of Colon Cancer to get it.  If you aren't feeling well, or if something just doesn't feel right, GET CHECKED. Colon cancer, if caught early, is treatable.  Do yourself the favor, do your research and get checked!!  Awareness is so important, and it could be the difference between life or death.

With that said, I'd like to thank all of you who came out today to support our survivor.  It means so much.  Special thanks to Lauren for getting our rears in gear, and getting us together as a team.  Joey is very lucky to have you in his life.  Heck, who am I kidding?  We all are.  Love you, girl.

My best friends forever and ever

Representin' Team Joey Can Beat it.  Awesome shirts, thanks MAGGIE!!!

A few of us

Yay Team!!

To The Cancer Slayer.  You kicked ass today, buddy boy.  It was so great to be able to cross the finish line with you.  Next year, we are running....maybe...Love you, kiddo.