Reaching Out: Commitment. Community. Journey. Three Words Sum Up Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk
 Leigh Ann Orcutt (left) and her walking partners. |
As the Clinic Manager of Cascade Valley Arlington Women's health and Cascade Valley Arlington Pediatrics, Leigh Anne Orcutt crosses paths with women of all ages every day. She sees them during times of stressful health decisions. On June 18 she decided to do something to better the health of all women.
"I have lost two family members to brain cancer, and several others have gone through the rigors of cancer treatment," explained Orcutt. "I committed to do the 60-mile walk for them and for all women."
Training
Every weekend Orcutt, her sister-in-law Chris Orcutt, and a friend, Theresa Vaders, walked both Saturday and Sunday on the Centennial Trail between Arlington and Snohomish. "We started out with five miles on Saturday and three miles on Sunday and progressed to 18 on Saturday and 11 on Sunday," says Orcutt.
In addition to all the time and effort it took to train for the three days of walking, they each also committed to raise $2,100. That, in itself, is a lot of work.
"I sent out letters and e-mails to all my friends and family. With only a month to gather donations, it was a lot of work. I ran out of time and ended up donating $726 to myself to be able to participate."
3-Days
On July 22, Lake Sammamish Park, Issaquah was awash with walkers. Anxiety, excitement and determination rippled from face to face. They had made and fulfilled the commitment, had grown into a community through their dedication and were now about to embark on a remarkable journey.
 |
It was a typical Seattle morning raining--but that did not dampen the smiles and spirits of the more than 2,400 walkers and 400 crew members! What's a 3-Day in Seattle without at least a little bit of rain, right? Six-and-a-half hours later, they arrived at Marymoor Park, Redmond.
"We grabbed our gear, set up our tent and headed for the shower semis. There were hundreds of port-a-potties, fresh towels, medical tents and physical therapy. As we enjoyed a delicious spaghetti dinner, we entertained each other with some inspired group karaoke."
On Day Two, they "enjoyed" 20.6 long and gorgeous miles of trail, winding through downtown Kirkland, past Marina Park and into Juanita Beach. When the weather warmed up, kids handing out Popsicles helped to cool them off.
That evening, after setting up camp and relaxing a bit, walking shoes were traded for dancing shoes and they boogied the night away to the sounds of Afrodisiac.
On Day Three, many friends and family followed the walkers, including a pick-up truck with pink ribbons. Hundreds of signs along the route cheered their every step. Kids handed out candy and local businesses gave away coffee.
The last 19 miles traveled past some of the most scenic areas of the entire three days. There was the Cheering Station atop Sunset Hill Park, a photo-op at the "Waiting for the Inter Urban" monument in Fremont and a great view of the Seattle skyline at Gasworks Park.
Throughout the entire journey, police and fire departments provided great service, with smiles and route support--and they even provided one final cooling shower at the end. The day finished with celebratory closing ceremonies in Magnuson Park.
Would You Do It Again?
"The best part of this experience was seeing the difference our commitment made in the lives of others. The looks on their faces as we walked past, their support signs, the tears and cheers--it was in a word overwhelming.
"While the training took a lot of time away from my family, and it was hard on them, they were there at the end to cheer me on.
"I want to thank everyone who supported me," said Orcutt. "Thank you for the opportunity to be part of this incredible event. I will absolutely do it again next year!"
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. It should not replace a visit with your health care professional. Call your doctor if you need more information or have additional questions.