A Note from the 2010 Race Chair

When I was selected to chair the 2010 Komen Indianapolis Race for the Cure I had no idea what I was getting myself into - it didn't matter, I was committed to doing it. I have been around the Race for over a decade. I served on the marketing committee years ago, then chaired it. I was the sponsor liaison and team captain when I was at IUPUI (Team Jaguars). I've walked alongside friends for a number of years who have had a family member affected by the disease. There have been a lot of ways I've been able to support and get involved with the Race for the Cure.

It wasn't until my best friend from college fought (and won) the fight last year that I decided to step up and get more involved. It was my way to honor and celebrate her. Of course, if you ask my husband, he would've said making a donation in her honor would've been easier. He might be right, but it might not be as rewarding. As I walked alongside Sheri last year, it was a completely different experience. We laughed, we cried and we walked proudly (sometimes in silence) across the finish line together. I knew right away that serving as the Chairwoman was going to be an incredible opportunity and a once in lifetime experience.

So, here I am... a few months into my "chairwomanship" and I'm having a great time - and learning a whole lot about the Race that I never would've known. I'm meeting a lot of wonderful people - and have already been impacted by some of the wonderful survivors, volunteers and committee members who I've had the pleasure of meeting.

But, why should I have all the fun ? I mean, wouldn't it be great to hear what the Race Executive Committee has in the works for the 2010 Race? Don't you want to know some of the behind the scenes things that go into planning for 40,000+ participants (like knowing 192 portolets have already been ordered)? Don't you want to help Pink Go Green (our new "green" initiative)? Don't you want to hear some of the incredible stories from survivors and co-survivors? Don't you want to hear from some of our sponsors and teams about why they are committed to the Race?

I feel like there's so much to share between now and April 17. This blog is just one way we hope to have an on-going conversation with Race for the Cure participants, sponsors, friends and fans. We hope to share information about the Race - and at the same time, hear from you. What do you want to know?

We plan on posting weekly, so follow us throughout the planning stages.