3.1 Miles for Jenn

Today was MD Anderson's yearly Sprint for Life 5k benefiting ovarian cancer research.  We participated in memory of our cousin (and friend) Jenn.  Jenn lost her battle against ovarian cancer in November '09.  She was an amazing friend, cousin, daughter, mom, aunt, niece & wife and is missed by all that knew her. 

Alyssa and Jenn- June '09
They had a beautiful bond.

MD Anderson is next door to Texas Children's, so we took the all too familiar route to the medical center this morning.  As we were pulling into the parking garage, what we call "Jenn's song" came on the radio.  Toby Keith's song "Cryin' for Me" became popular at the time of Jenn's passing and we heard it for the very first time as we pulled into Chicago for Jenn's memorial.  This morning I got goose bumps up and down my arms when I heard it as I hadn't heard it in months.  Too amazing that it was played as we were heading over to walk and run the 3.1 miles for Jenn. 

It was a beautiful (albeit a little humid) morning, perfect for celebrating (and shedding a few tears over) the beautiful person that was Jenn. 

Darren, Joy, Katie, Matthew, Jackson & Alyssa
going 5k for (Aunt) Jenn!

Jackson and Alyssa enjoyed the race food after...
including fruit, muffins, and popsicles.

Darren ran his person best time (24:30)
coming in 7th in his age class out of 27
and was amply surprised to hear that a
16 year old won overall at 16:00.

Do you know the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
-Bloating
-Pelvic or abdominal pain
-Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
-Urinary symptoms (urgency and frequency)

Be proactive!  See your physician if any symptoms last more than 2 weeks.  Do not just excuse them away (e.g. I've gained weight, etc).   For more information about ovarian cancer visit www.mdanderson.org/diseases/ovarian.  Donate any time to the Blanton-Davis Ovarian Cancer Research Program at www.mdanderson.org/donateovarian.