David and I completed the 2009 North Texas Race for the Cure on Saturday, June 6. We had a great time walking in support and in celebration of our new friend Cathy’s first year surviving breast cancer, and in memory of David’s mother Arveta. Here is a photo of us during the walk. Cathy’s friend and our Breast Friends Forever teammate, Mandi, took this photo of us during the walk. Thank you to my friends and supporters who have donated to my breast cancer walks for the past two years.

Have you participated in one of the multi-day breast cancer walks? If you have, you know about the importance of sweep vans. If a walker gets injured, tired, hungry, or has to use the restroom before they make it to the next pit stop… the van will stop, pick you up, and drive you to the next location. They do drive very slow and seem to be very careful, but I assume they still are required to have some good Van Insurance just in case.

If you are in the UK and are looking for good van insurance rates, you should check out AutoNet Insurance. They offer prices up to 70% off. You can even get a quote over the internet, or call and speak with a representative 24 hours a day. How is that for great customer service? In addition, AutoNet guarantees you the best rate, or will offer you a refund. They also have lots information and online quotes available for many different kinds of vehicles besides vans which is very useful and easy to find. Do you have an aircraft or motorcycle? What about a motor home or caravan? They can help you get a great rate to insurance any of those and more. They even offer pet insurance! Check them out if you are in need of a good rate.

One of the most helpful and surprising features of the 3-Day experience was discovering the existance of “sweep vans” on event. Each van had a different theme, and played music on the route. Some of the drivers and staff even dress up in outrageous outfits. We trained hard, so we were prepared to walk every step of the 60 mile journey. We did not know anything about them until our garage sale when Jan (one of the van drivers below right) dropped by and told us. I have to admit we did ride a few for a couple of miles for the sake of time and being able to continue walking as much of the route as possible, and having adaptive driving equipment on event was certainly helpful to those who were injured and not able to continue.

Mobility Works has a great website that features a large selection of similar handicap vans and minivans with ramps and easy access. The site is easy to navigate and is very user friendly. There is a section where you can also rent a van, in addition to sales on vans that are priced to sell– some for less than $10,000. If you have ever priced a van (forget about it being handicap friendly), you know that is an outstanding deal. Check them out if you are in need of this type of transportation for yourself or special event.

Note: This post is a revised version of what was sent to us recapping the walk. We will be updating with our own pictures and stories soon. We just wanted to get something up here for you guys! The picture above is of Nikki and I walking out of Southfork Ranch taken by one of the “Walker Stalkers” that followed us around all three days. We are behind the woman in the white sweatshirt.

We did it! We gave our heart, soul, sweat and tears for three days and created some remarkable memories along the way.

It all began with an inspiring Opening Ceremony at Southfork Ranch in Parker, TX. With the theme song from “Dallas” kicking off our journey. We were greeted by a beautiful sunrise over the ranch, complete with views of the resident horses and bulls. Friday’s route took us through Plano, Richardson, Dallas and Murphy, where support from the community was all around and excited cheers from local elementary school students put an extra spring in our step!

Saturday morning was chilly as Santa greeted us for breakfast in camp. As we headed out for a 20.7-mile route the weather warmed up and there was not a cloud in the sky. The scenic route took us through Carrollton, Plano and Dallas on numerous park trails, and we enjoyed lunch at the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. Some pink unicorns were even spotted, as male crew members got in to the Breast Cancer 3-Day spirit! The cheering stations seemed endless, as crowds came out to support our efforts. Thousands of hugs were shared by both walkers and crew.

On Sunday, there was excitement in the air as we left Timberglen Park for the final day of our journey. We made our way through Addison, Dallas and University Park in an incredible 17.9 miles. It all culminated with a beautiful Closing Ceremony at picturesque Southern Methodist University.

The money we raised will go a long way to help Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund save lives.

Thank you for all of the support of our family and friends. Without you we would not have been able to do this. We had an incredible time, met some amazing people, and feel so accomplished. We will update you soon with more details!