The Journey to Conquer Cancer walk on Sunday, June 23 was a brilliant success! In terms of numbers, here is the breakdown:
- Over $1 million dollars raised for cancer research ($441,662 raised by Multiple Myeloma supporters)
- 2,200 walkers (600 walkers for Multiple Myeloma)
- Munira’s Team raised $18,936!
- Participating in a good cause: Priceless!
On a personal note, I walked 2 kilometres! This was a huge accomplishment for me because I was too weak to walk more than a few steps last year, and had to watch the Walk from the sidelines. I am already setting my sight to next year’s walk when I hope to walk 5 kilometres! My friend Roma, another Multiple Myeloma colleague, ran the 5 kilometres, and has challenged me to do the same next year. All in good time!
And then there was the Spirit Squad, part of “Munira’s Team”‘. 30 brilliant people that showed up at 7.30 in the morning. They set up shop along the route and energized and inspired the walkers. They used noisemakers, bubbles, Hawaiian skirts, pompoms, inspirational signs and fun gadgets to spread joy. Each brought their own personality into play. They were the “funnest” and loudest part of the walk. They kept going on and on like energizer bunnies, without missing a beat, for 3 plus hours. And the crowd responded in kind. Serious walkers turned into playful walkers for a while. Each Cheer Squad member wore a t-shirt that said “When you Choose Hope, anything is possible.” The pictures tell the story!
One of the Cheer Squad members was my friend Ginger and her family – Maggie, Camille and Craig. Maggie and Camille, delightful kids, asked their mum, “Do you like Myeloma?” And Ginger responded, “Not really”. Not to be deterred, they persisted, “Is Myeloma your friend?”. And “I think “Myeloma” is pretty.” That’s when it occurred to Ginger that they thought my name was “Myeloma”. From the mouth of babes…….
Today my heart is so full. It is bursting with bright colours, hearty laughter and pure happiness. It is very hard for me and my family to fundraise. But we got out of our comfort zone and made the plea. The response was overwhelming. Because of your generosity, “Munira’s Team” made it in the top 10 fundraising teams and was part of the million-dollar cheque presentation to Princess Margaret Hospital.
On behalf of all cancer patients, thank you for giving us hope, for helping us believe that a cure will be found and for showing us that we matter. For the “Munira’s Team” Walkers and Spirit Squad, thank you for making a tremendous difference at the Walk. I am so proud to be associated with you. You guys rock!
Today I know what Buddha meant when he said, “If you knew how perfect things are, you would tilt your head back and laugh at the sky.” Today I encourage you to look at all that is beautiful in your life, tilt your head back and give thanks for the sheer gift of being alive!
With gratitude and wonder,
Munira
14 responses to “Reflections From the Walk…”
Congratulations on your walk and the fund-raising. It is a privilege to support such a worthy cause. Love, Patti.
Hi Patti – – I hope you can join us for the walk next year. Of course, you would outwalk all the walkers! I remember how competitive you are! I really appreciated your support. Love, Munira
We are truly a force to be reckoned with. Your cheering squad was AWESOME!!! Thanks to each and every participant, organizer, volunteer, sponsor and corporate sponsor for making this event the complete success that it was!!! I was thrilled at the turnout. I have to say no one wants to be a member of this exclusive club (Multiple Myeloma) but the silver lining is that we get to meet such incredible and inspirational people. Our “myeloma family” is small, tight, warm, loving and cohesive. We are ONE TEAM with ONE DREAM – the CURE!!! Let’s find it in our lifetime so we can rejoice in it!!! Love you Premji Family. So proud of you!!! xoxo Cindy Leder
Hi Cindy – – I agree with everything you say! We are a force to be reckoned with and we will find a cure, with God’s grace. We are one team with one dream! As always, it was so great to see you at the Walk. I would love to connect with you more than just once a year. You are a wonderful inspiration! Love, Munira and the Premji Family
Munira,
i knew you would do it. You are definitely an inspiration for all of us. i am sure you will be walking the 5km next year. i would love to join you.
Lynda
Hey Lynda – – I was in Ottawa yesterday, and walked 3.5 kilometers! It took me a very long time, but I did it! Do you still walk VERY fast? I could never keep up with you! I will look forward to having you participate next year. When am I going to see you and Dave in person? I could come out to you if you are not coming to Toronto? What do you say? Love, love and more love. Munira
Being part of that spirit squad was one of the most rewarding feelings I have ever experienced! You are truly inspiring !
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey in ending cancer in YOUR lifetime. We are truly blessed to have you in our lives. You have taught us so much in the little time we’ve known each other and what you’ve accomplished in the last 16 months only a few have had the privilege to accomplish in their lifetimes. You should be so proud of yourself. And next year…..we will RUN the 5K walk together.
With all our heartfelt love,
Arif, Dilshad, Nareesa and Tahara
Dilshad and Arif – – When I am sad, all I have to do is think of you to feel better. I don’t know how I could have gone through the past 16 months without your friendship, your support and your mango shakes. I am very grateful to have you in my life. Arif – – I pray that your birthday year bring you an abundance of joy and fulfillment in all that you do. Thank you for participating on sunday! With immense love, Munira
Woo hoo! I also loved being part of the Spirit Squad!
Way to go Team Munira!!!!!
Hey Julie – – Thanks for the shout out! It was way too much fun – like you!
Hi Munira!! You have the right words to inspire and encourage many! Thank you for your blog, your wonderful talents in fundraising and raising the spirits of so many walkers. You bring much joy to so many hearts. What a joy to know you!! Erika and Dave
Hi Erica and Dave – – You know how great it was to walk with you for part of the journey? I so enjoy spending time with you! Thank you for sharing your wisdom, your insights and your learnings with me. I do appreciate it so! In friendship, Munira