Last week’s soaring temperatures and pea soup-like humidity made walking across Clarkston somewhat unpleasant for Kim and Starr Light. But, they laced up their shoes and hit the pavement every afternoon, anyway.
Both are determined to be fit and ready come Sept. 28, when they will join thousands of other men and women in the Michigan Breast Cancer 3-Day. Participants trek 60 miles over the course of three days in a walk designed to promote awareness and raise money for breast cancer research.
‘Just in the last five years I’ve known several people who’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer,? said Kim Light, 44, noting that for every diagnosis in her circle of friends and coworkers, she’s also seen successful treatment. ‘I feel very lucky it hasn’t been me.?
So Kim and her daughter Starr Light, 20, signed up for the event and began training last spring, gradually lengthening the time and distance of their walks.
The 2007 Breast Cancer 3-Day Series includes events in 11 states across the U.S. Participants travel about 20 miles per day during the event, raising awareness for breast cancer as thousands walk through cities large and small while sponsors provide meals, snacks, liquids, mobile showers, tents, safety guidelines, and 24-hour medical support.
Each year, the Breast Cancer 3-Day raises millions of dollars to fund critical breast cancer research and community outreach programs. In addition to supporting a cause she believes in and getting some exercise, Kim said she’s also enjoying the opportunity to spend time with her daughter.
‘We’re already really close,? said Starr, a 2005 CHS grad now majoring in English at Michigan State University. ‘I talk her ear off while were out walking. I never shut up.?
So while they’re feeling nearly ready to walk 60 miles, the mother daughter duo still need another $1,300 in order to meet minimum entry requirements’each participant must raise $2,200 to take part in the walk.
Although they’ve sent out fliers, talked to family and friends and frequently strike up conversations with strangers inquiring about the pink ribbon pins they both wear, it’s been somewhat difficult, so far, to raise enough funds.
‘People believe in the cause,? said Kim, ‘but a lot of people told us they’ve already given, or just can’t because times are so tough right now.?
‘We’ve been hearing stories about all the people who’ve been affected by breast cancer,? said Starr. ‘It’s hard to believe how common it really is.?
The Michigan Breast Cancer 3-Day will begin with Opening Ceremonies at Oakland Community College Orchard Ridge Campus, in Farmington Hills on Sept. 28 at 7 a.m. and conclude with Closing Ceremonies at The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn on Sept. 30 at 5 p.m.
To help reach their fund-raising goals, visit www.the3day.org/michigan07/starr, or www.the3day.org/michigan07/kimberlylight. Alternatively, checks can be made payable to 3 Day Walk and sent to Kim and Starr Light, 8469 Ranch Estates, Clarkston, MI 48348.