I KNOW THAT cancer is likely to touch someone close to me and to you. So many women suffer and die from this disease every year, and on January 2, 2004, it hit very close to home. I lost my mother to a rare form of the disease: inflammatory breast cancer. She was only 56 years old. She was diagnosed with the cancer and died in less than one year. I miss her terribly.

We have the power to help find a cure for this devastating disease. I participated in the American Cancer Society's, "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer" five mile walk on October 17, 2004. I want to do all I can to support breast cancer research, education, advocacy, and patient services programs so that someday, breast cancer will no longer be a threat to the women I love.

I walked to honor the life of my mom. If that helps lead to a cure, or lends support to just one other woman suffering from this devastating disease, I will feel a little bit better.

No one should have to suffer the way my mom did.

I think of my mother everyday. She was the happiest, most friendly person! Everyone who met her, loved her. She was always there when we needed her, and she would have done anything for anyone. I truly believe she touched the heart of everyone she met. She is desperately missed.

Show the women in your life that you’re committed to protecting them from breast cancer!

Jackie