Earlier this year one of our neighbors, Kaitlyn, lost the fight against a lymphoma. Around the same time, our next door neighbor's 7-year old granddaughter, Sophia, was diagnosed with leukemia. Whether you've been touched by someone affected by the diseases or not, its hard not to wish for the discovery of a cure for these cancers, particularly for the victims whose time ends far too soon. 
That's why, when our neighbors invited us to join them for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Light the Night Walk we absolutely said yes. Yes, we would walk with Team Kaitlyn. Even the diva went out to walk in support of the Dzurneys and in memory of Kaitlyn (she also got a balloon...which she loves).
The walk started at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and snaked down toward city dock before returning to the stadium. While a somber occasion, it also was a great and joyful coming together of families and communities to raise money for research. The atmosphere was celebratory, and a bit raucous if you were close to that large group of younger children.
Above all, it was inspirational. The rainbow of ballons told the story. Gold stood for the courage of the grieving families. Red stood for the strength of the survivors and white stood for the hope displayed by the patients currently battling cancer. There was no sense of defeat in the crowd...only a great commitment to find a cure.
Thank you to the Dzurney family for inviting us to join you in walking in Kaitlyn's memory. She was a strong force that made a real impact in such a short period of time.
Stats -
Miles: 4.3 (plus 2.75 for the Light the Night Walk for Leukemia and Lymphoma)
Time: 38:32 (average pace of 8:38 per mile..no time on the second half)
Location: Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and Downtown Annapolis
Feeling: there's nothing more humbling than running for a cure
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