Tuesday, July 29, 2008

59 Days


What have I gotten myself into? As usual, I leap with my heart before my brain has had an opportunity to even know what has hit it. When my friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, one of the things she told me was that she was certain it was all the ruckus Komen Foundation supporters and fundraisers make, that has swung the pendulum in her favor for survival. That was really all she had to say and my mouse was clicking its way to the 3 Day and I was volunteering in her honor. A couple of more clicks of the mouse and just like that, I raised $1,100 (thank you again, everyone.) Crew doesn't have to raise money-but it's always welcome if we do.

It isn't useless noise we 3 Dayers make. The millions we raise have made a difference in outcomes and the awareness we raise, saves lives. I am two months short of having to show up and crew a Breast Cancer 3 Day event. It'll be my first turn crewing and although I have an inkling of what I need to do, I don't really know the ropes. I've only been a walker in the past. I was unable to make the Ready, Set, Crew meeting last Saturday so I'm a bit behind. It's all good though, I'll catch up. They don't need to tell me how to be a nurse-I think I have that base covered.

I still need to download my manual and study (yes, there is a post-test.) One fantastic benefit of crewing as a nurse is the 21 continuing education credits I'll earn in endurance event nursing. Woo-hoo. Score! I still need to get my professional credentials to the team leaders. I still have to buy some adequate endurance event clothing and be prepared for the elements. I still have to return my team leader's telephone call. But I don't need a tentmate. Out of the blue, I got an email from another crew member who is also going stag to the event and wanted the tentmate issue settled. Sheesh, I hadn't even thought of that! I'm glad the intros are out of the way. I hope she doesn't mind if I knit.

If you plan on walking the Michigan 3 Day (or if you're crewing), look me up in the medical tent. I'll be the one lancing blisters, starting IVs and listening to your stories of 3 Day glory.

I wonder, where in the hell have I put my sleeping bag?

8 comments:

laurie said...

i deeply admire what you are doing with this, as well as your work as a hospice nurse.

you probably know that i lost a sister to breast cancer, and my father was diagnosed with a brain tumor just days after her funeral.

the hospice nurses were very kind, and while i was pretty surprised to see that hospice (if you don't have hospice insurance) is extremely minimal care, it was still very necessary care and we always felt better after they had been by.

you're doing great and important things. who cares if your car alarm went off; i bet they were deeply grateful to see you, noisy or not.

Rudee said...

I recall that about your sister Laurie-and your dad. I'm sorry for your losses.

Medicare pays for all hospice care, equipment, medications, home health aides, nurses, social workers, spiritual care counselors, bereavement support and all for so very little money-a fee set by Medicare. It is not a profitable service, more though, it is a compassionate one. I'm surprised how little they pay. I don't know how for profit hospice providers make a profit. Probably, they skimp on the services they provide. It's sad because, needs are often great.

Brenda said...

I also admire you and appreciate you sharing your life on the blog. It is so good to hear about people doing good things in the world. I do some volunteer work, but probably not enough! Have a great day!

Rudee said...

Brenda,

It's amazing to participate in a 3 Day. If there is one near you, just going out to cheer the walkers gives a person an amazing feeling. And walkers appreciate the attention to their efforts. I've also been a walker stalker while not actually participating. I'd hand out free water, gatorade and candies. Walkers love the candy!

Rositta said...

It's amazing Rudee, that you have time for these activities. I'm certain your nursing experience will be appreciated...ciao

Brenda said...

Oh, Thanks Rudee..I wasn't aware that I could just help in that way. I am unable to walk because of severe tendonitis in my foot, but I could give out water and candy. So I will! Thanks! Glad you posted this.

Anonymous said...

Thanks so much for being a Breast Cancer 3-Day volunteer!

If you happen to take any photos or videos this year, we'd love it if you'd share them on the official Breast Cancer 3-Day Flickr group, YouTube channel, Facebook fan page or MySpace page.

Rudee said...

Hi Celeste, I will!