A letter of support from my friend Fran Dunaway

Dear Friends and Family,

I have accepted a request to raise funds to support the Susan G. Komen Puget Sound Race for the Cure on June 7, 2009 and to join the fight against breast cancer. 
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My apologies for the lateness in sending this email to you but I just today decided to participate in the annual 5k Race for the Cure. It's on Sunday here in Seattle and I may walk part of the way, but I will be there!

As you all know, I underwent treatment for breast cancer nearly 6 years ago and I personally know several women who have successfully survived breast cancer treatment. One friend did not. Her name was Starla and she passed away two years ago. 

I'd like to share a story with you. I remember when I was undergoing chemotherapy, I got a call from my friend Renee. She was participating in the 3 day Breast Cancer walk and wanted me to know that her t-shirt had my name on it. Less than a year later, she was borrowing my hats and undergoing chemotherapy for the same disease that she had walked for on my behalf.

I've known Renee since 1996, when I first moved to Olympia and began working as a freelance producer for Washington State. We developed an immediate friendship that has endured all these years. Renee is one of the most active, kindest and upbeat people one would ever want to meet, much less be blessed to call a friend.

Last week she went to see her doctor about a persistent cough and got the diagnosis we survivors dread. Her cancer is back. Last Friday, she began her first round of 2 months of weekly chemotherapy. 

This time next year, Renee and I will be running the 5k together. But this year, my t-shirt has her name on it. This one is for Renee!

I hope you'll support me - even if I do have to walk most of the way. It's the race for the cure that is so important. The sooner the better.

Thanks.

Much love,

Fran 

Raising funds.  Raising awareness.  
I AM the CURE.

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