Tales from the Trail

Lynda thanks the staff and volunteers of the WEWC

Next to the birth of my children this has been the most beautiful experience of my life so far. As a survivor of cervical cancer myself and then becoming a daughter of a breast cancer survivor, something steered me, drove me into the direction to fight cancer. And then again looking back at my family history and seeing the disease ravage and consume many family members I found myself one day working for Causeforce and the foundation to fight all cancers.

I have seen this foundation work from back to front. I have been a part of the process. I have had the privilege to experience a group of people that are truly outstanding. Each and every individual that is a part of the Weekend to End Cancers and the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation, Causeforce, all staff and let’s not forget the volunteers and CREW and MOSTLY the survivors that keep fighting to prevent and ensure our grand children won't have to, are the most amazing people I have ever had the privilege to meet in my life.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2009

Katie D (staff) you really know you stuff. Without her support on opening morning, we could not have had tent assignment move so smoothly. Damn it was flawless. The online check in really, really works. We had about 0.9% of tent assignments that needed reassignment. An event this size that's saying something, that's saying something really big. Way to go to who thought up the online registration.

Opening ceremonies. I cried. I CRIED! As I watched the last few walkers start their 33km walk. I cried some more. I cried for the fallen ones, the fighters, I cried for the ones left behind. Funny, at that moment I realized I am all three of those, and then I cried some more. Amanda and Sarah (staff) shared this with me. They only saw the first tears. I'm so glad you girls were there, because I had someone to share that with.

Patricia (staff) you are so beautiful. You knew somehow, I don't know how, but you found out that I was a survivor and you saddled me up in the 2010 re-registration truck and took me on a detour specifically for me to see some of the walkers on the route. Somehow you knew it was important for me to see. I love who you are as a human soul. You pay honest attention to other people and give your genuine heart in the most personal way. You drove out of your way so I could see something so beautiful, (the walkers, the heroes, the fighters on the front line) thank you.

Al (volunteer at camp) you is a super guy, dad, husband, friend and human being. I'm sorry I was not there to watch your wife and daughter cross day 1 finish line. Thank you for your help with the signs. You rock!

Benoit (staff) and forgive me, I can't remember your name, but the other staff member that assisted with the medical assistance call. You are both very special people. I'm glad I had the privilege of working with you. Benoit thanks for the lip balm.

Steve (staff) it was a pleasure meeting you at the day one cheering line, cheering with me welcoming our walkers to their home for the night. And getting us lunch on day two. Welcome to your new career and I hope I get to work with you again sometime.

Katie M (staff) you were there to assist whenever I called you. Your spirit is incredible. I see why you do what you do. Thank you for getting me a more comfortable bed for the night. I would have been broken otherwise. You gave up your bed for me. You slept in a tent in the cold when you had lost your sleeping bag. (Did I say in the cold!), and get this, on a really hard ground as well. Thanks to your concern for my well being, I was able to get up at 4am the next morning and knock another one out of the park on day two.

Stephanie (staff) my fellow survivor of cancer that was also on staff. We wore the purple lanyards in our staff uniforms, because we truly understand the impact this disease has had on us, our families, and friends. Thank you for sharing your story with me. I'm so glad you got to walk with the survivors. You are a hero.

Melanie (staff) you have been the most incredible leader. I am proud to work for/with you anytime. Without you I would never have had this experience. Your support throughout our time together has been the best. A true leader with honesty, integrity and inspirational spirit is what you are. THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart!

Dianne (volunteer) the first time I met you was in April. You are a soldier in the fight and you are beautiful. Thank you for not just coming on event, but volunteering your time year round. You truly are a hero. Thank you Dianne, it's been a pleasure. You've been in stuffing envelopes, dedicating your time and then to see you on event. I meant the hug. It's people like you that make this happen.

All of these things and more are the reason why I am now not just on staff working behind the scenes, but am also a WALKER. Please sponsor me in the 2010 event.

Return to Tales from the Trail