Subject: My Avon Walk for Breast Cancer From: Joe Lerma III Date: Sat, April 8, 2006 2:39 pm

  Did you know that every three minutes, another woman in the United States is diagnosed with breast cancer? I didn't, and I was shocked to learn how prevalent this horrible disease has become in this country. So shocked, in fact, that I've committed to doing something about it, and I'm writing to ask for your help.

  On July 8-9, I'll spend the weekend walking, along with thousands of other people, in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. I will walk at least the distance of a marathon (26.2 miles), and I may choose to walk as far as a marathon and a half.

  Either way, it's a very long walk.I'll have to spend the next few months training, fundraising, and preparing for the event. It's the biggest challenge I've ever taken on, but I'm very excited about doing it because I know it will make a real difference to the millions of people affected by breast cancer.

  The money raised goes to the Avon Foundation Breast Cancer Crusade, a 501(c)(3) public charity whose mission is to provide access to care and to work toward finding a cure. They provide funding to organizations all over the country in five areas: medical research, clinical care, support services, educational and advocacy seminars,; and community-based, non-profit early detection breast health programs. Much of the money raised will stay right here to help people in our city.