Joining in

Around this time each year I begin my fundraising efforts for the American Cancer Society's Annual Breast Cancer walk. Since 2004 a group from my hometown forms a team in memory of Lori Baines, the mother of my sisters best friend. Lori was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in 2001, and continued the fight for her life until June of 2003. Through out her battle with cancer she started a jewelry making business. She hand crafted beaded bracelets to signify every significant, special turning point in her life. Her breast cancer collection quickly spread like wildfire around Manchester and before you knew it everyone was wearing one of Lori's designs.

In October of 2004, National Breast Cancer Awareness month, everyone in town was representing a piece of Lori in everything that they did. Her designs were worn my mothers, daughters, teachers, friends and family throughout the community. Upon seeing one of Lori's designs you instantly felt apart of her there with you and could relate to the individual wearing a piece of her jewelry. It was extremely remarkable to see the connection that formed between a community in something so simple as a bracelet.

As the years pass and the memories begin to fade, Lori's bracelets continue to keep the Manchester community connected. My family and I will continue to Walk for a Cure in honor of Lori and the impact she once, and still has on so many.