Better Late…

International Women's Day is a Day to celebrate the lives of women who have made a difference and impacted the lives of other women. I honor and celebrate the many strong women of all walks of life, both past and present, who have fought, marched tirelessly, and set examples and standards for gender equality in the workplace, in education, in women's healthcare, in sports, religion, politics, the right to vote, and "our overall quality of life." Women who have refused to "sit down" when shoved to the ground or refused to "stand up" when forced to move on—I honor you! I will honor and celebrate your life every day.

On a more personal level, almost five years ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. In several interviews, I was asked, "How has cancer changed you?" Well, other than the noticeable physical change of a bilateral mastectomy with no reconstruction, I have to say I became a stronger woman. I learned resilience, the ability and belief that I could "come back" from life-threatening conditions or injury. The perseverance I learned on the trail as a hiker took on a new, more significant meaning: never quit when you want to stop. Keep on going, one step at a time. Keep on moving.

 During this 5-year "Hike for Life", I had terrific support from new and old friends. I love you all. But today I celebrate and honor the life and service of Dr. Jillian Lloyd, who so tirelessly not only "hiked" this journey with me but also impacted thousands of women whose lives she has touched, both before and after me. My "diagnosis" led me to my calling, my mission. My "diagnosis" led to the birth of Hiking for Healing. So, I celebrate Dr. Jillian Lloyd's life of service to her God and women's healing on their journey through cancer. I honor you, Jill, for every step you have taken with me and Hiking for Healing, as well as your support, guidance, perseverance, dedication, and commitment.

 Some days, our trail may seem complicated, the climb non-ending, but we will never quit!