The Cure Happens Today

I've been volunteering with the Austin Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure for almost exactly a year - first as a member now co-chair of the Technology Committee, also helping with a special project for the Annual Race for the Cure, and I've applied to be on the board (keep your fingers crossed for the big vote on the 18th).

Before I had the chance to work with this group, I might not have listed finding a cure for breast cancer in my top 5 causes, but I've had such a positive experience working with all of the women and men who are so passionate about the goal of finding a cure that I am now equally as committed. Several things happened really; I'm now coming in direct contact with the people who are affected by this terrible disease; I haven't met a single volunteer who hasn't impressed the hell out of me; AND (last but not least) I finally took a moment to think about my relationship with my own body, and what it would mean to have my own breasts (certainly a part of my femininity, despite my conflicted relationship with them) under attack.

All of this to say, I'm on a Race for the Cure team and if you feel like supporting me or this fantastic cause you can run with us or make a donation here. There's also a Facebook group if you want to learn more about other events, volunteering opportunities, etc.

And now that I'm thinking about it, here are the other causes I'm doing my best to support as well: helping children grow into happy, successful adults (I'm a mentor with BBBS, certainly another life changing experience); supporting reproductive rights for all women regardless of class or race; ending violence against women; suicide prevention. The list goes on and on now that I've started...

Feeling the need to stand on a soap box for a minute. Pick a cause (or 10) and REALLY support it. Writing a big check is great, but every single group needs committed volunteers, too. You can decide how much of a time committment you're willing to make and I promise you'll get at least as much out of it as you've put in.