The Avon Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk has special meaning to me. I lost my grandmother, Geraldine Bierman to breast cancer in 1970. A friend of our family, Janie Landig, had breast cancer surgery in January 2002, and my beautiful wife and best friend, Jane, had breast cancer surgery also in January of this year. Since my wife's ordeal, we seem to have been touched by so many people who have battled with cancer. My wife has been blessed to receive treatment at USC Kenneth Norris Cancer Research Hospital in Los Angeles, CA. The following doctors and their teams deserve our prayers and thanks: Dr. Melvin J. Silverstein, Surgeon; Dr. Oscar E. Streeter Jr., Radiation Oncologist; and Dr. James R. Waisman, Oncologist.

The fact that one in eight women will contract breast cancer is a startling statistic. In this country alone, five hundred women per day are diagnosed with breast cancer. Avon's mission is to raise funds for breast cancer research, care, financial assistance, support services, education, and training for early detection and awareness, ultimately lowering these statistics and increasing survival.

I am raising a minimum of $1,900 for the Avon Breast Cancer Fund. I would receive my reward if the money I raise could spare one woman from the fear and pain of going through the ordeal of facing breast cancer as well as the family who loves her. My heart and prayers go out to all these brave and hopeful victims and their families as they deal with this disease.

If the 3,000 people who sign up to walk in the 60 mile, San Jose to San Francisco event reach their pledge goals, we can make a real difference! If all thirteen events across the United States meet their pledge goals, we can make a tremendous difference. From Boston & Washington D.C. to Dallas and San Francisco, people are walking for the cure.

I have committed myself to this Avon Breast Cancer Walk and would appreciate anyone who donates money to be a part of reaching this goal with me. You can send your address to my E-Mail Address: runnerbell@aol.com. and I will send you a donation form. Your donation is fully tax deductible and a rewarding experience.

Thank you for your support, and, as I cross the finish line, I will not be alone because I could not accomplish this goal without your help.

Dale Bell
Breast Cancer Family Survivor