Breast Cancer Fundraisers

welcome.my guest today is lindawashkuhn, founder of the peoria my guest today is lindawashkuhn, founder of the peoriasusan g komen race for the cure. washkuhn, founder of the peoriasusan g komen race for the cure.linda, nice to have you. susan g komen race for the cure.linda, nice to have you.>>thank you. linda, nice to have you.>>thank you.it is nice to be here. >>thank you.it is nice to be here.>>let's talk about today's race. it is nice to be here.>>let's talk about today's race.first, the number of >>let's talk about today's race.first, the number ofparticipants? first, the number ofparticipants?>> well, we are expecting a

participants?>> well, we are expecting afield of 25,000 plus on may 10, >> well, we are expecting afield of 25,000 plus on may 10,2008. field of 25,000 plus on may 10,2008.so it will be a great day. 2008.so it will be a great day.>>i understand -- that's about so it will be a great day.>>i understand -- that's about7% of the tri-county area. >>i understand -- that's about7% of the tri-county area.if we were to use that same 7% of the tri-county area.if we were to use that samepercentage, dallas, texas, that if we were to use that samepercentage, dallas, texas, thatwould translate into about percentage, dallas, texas, thatwould translate into about165,000 people in dallas.

would translate into about165,000 people in dallas.so we have a pretty good turnout 165,000 people in dallas.so we have a pretty good turnouthere in peoria. so we have a pretty good turnouthere in peoria.>>it makes me very proud of here in peoria.>>it makes me very proud ofpeoria. >>it makes me very proud ofpeoria.>>and the composition, men, peoria.>>and the composition, men,women, children, whomever. >>and the composition, men,women, children, whomever.what else do we have? women, children, whomever.what else do we have?motorcyclists? what else do we have?motorcyclists?what is going on?

motorcyclists?what is going on?>> we have a ride for the cure, what is going on?>> we have a ride for the cure,and that is an event in and of >> we have a ride for the cure,and that is an event in and ofitself. and that is an event in and ofitself.but the signature events, of itself.but the signature events, ofcourse, is race for the cure, but the signature events, ofcourse, is race for the cure,which is a 5-k walk or run and course, is race for the cure,which is a 5-k walk or run andone mile walk. which is a 5-k walk or run andone mile walk.it attracts people from all over one mile walk.it attracts people from all overthis area as well as world class

it attracts people from all overthis area as well as world classrunners to come to peoria to this area as well as world classrunners to come to peoria toparticipate. runners to come to peoria toparticipate.>> so this is sanctioned then? participate.>> so this is sanctioned then?>> it absolutely is. >> so this is sanctioned then?>> it absolutely is.the illinois valley striders run >> it absolutely is.the illinois valley striders runthe finish line and have from the illinois valley striders runthe finish line and have fromthe beginning. the finish line and have fromthe beginning.it is very precise, and that's the beginning.it is very precise, and that'sthe way it should be.

it is very precise, and that'sthe way it should be.>>motorcyclists, i am kind of the way it should be.>>motorcyclists, i am kind ofcurious. >>motorcyclists, i am kind ofcurious.how do they fit in? curious.how do they fit in?>> it is a separate event. how do they fit in?>> it is a separate event.that started more than several >> it is a separate event.that started more than severalyears ago, and they started at a that started more than severalyears ago, and they started at adestination and they ride and years ago, and they started at adestination and they ride andend up in peoria. destination and they ride andend up in peoria.that's a separate fundraiser.

end up in peoria.that's a separate fundraiser.>>how many? that's a separate fundraiser.>>how many?>> probably 1500 this year, 1200 >>how many?>> probably 1500 this year, 1200to 1500. >> probably 1500 this year, 1200to 1500.>>i understand that somehow the to 1500.>>i understand that somehow thefederal penitentiary in pekin is >>i understand that somehow thefederal penitentiary in pekin isinvolved. federal penitentiary in pekin isinvolved.could you expand on that. involved.could you expand on that.>>well, they have an event at could you expand on that.>>well, they have an event atthe prison in pekin.

>>well, they have an event atthe prison in pekin.the ladies work year round in the prison in pekin.the ladies work year round ingleaning funds for contribution the ladies work year round ingleaning funds for contributionto race for for the cure, and gleaning funds for contributionto race for for the cure, andrepresentatives from peoria go to race for for the cure, andrepresentatives from peoria gothere. representatives from peoria gothere.i attend each year, and they there.i attend each year, and theyhave a ceremony and their own i attend each year, and theyhave a ceremony and their ownrun and walk. have a ceremony and their ownrun and walk.it is quite touching.

run and walk.it is quite touching.>>it is called "the spirit." it is quite touching.>>it is called "the spirit."there is something about the >>it is called "the spirit."there is something about thespirit runners in a sense they there is something about thespirit runners in a sense theydo not leave the facilities. spirit runners in a sense theydo not leave the facilities.>>exactly because they are not do not leave the facilities.>>exactly because they are notable to leave the facility, but >>exactly because they are notable to leave the facility, butbreast cancer has no barriers or able to leave the facility, butbreast cancer has no barriers orboundaries. breast cancer has no barriers orboundaries.it strikes anywhere and any

boundaries.it strikes anywhere and anytime. these women are certainly it strikes anywhere and anytime. these women are certainlydedicated to doing this race for time. these women are certainlydedicated to doing this race forthe cure. dedicated to doing this race forthe cure.they raise $2,500 a year? the cure.they raise $2,500 a year?>> exactly. they raise $2,500 a year?>> exactly.considering what they make >> exactly.considering what they makeindividually and collectively, considering what they makeindividually and collectively,that's a lot of money. individually and collectively,that's a lot of money.>>you expect to raise about how

that's a lot of money.>>you expect to raise about howmuch in contributions? >>you expect to raise about howmuch in contributions?>> our goal this year is one much in contributions?>> our goal this year is onemillion dollars. >> our goal this year is onemillion dollars.>>one million dollars. million dollars.>>one million dollars.>>yes. >>one million dollars.>>yes.>>let's talk about the disease. >>yes.>>let's talk about the disease.you mentioned -- it sounds to me >>let's talk about the disease.you mentioned -- it sounds to melike it is an equal opportunity you mentioned -- it sounds to melike it is an equal opportunitydisease.

like it is an equal opportunitydisease.>>it truly is, and, of course, disease.>>it truly is, and, of course,we read about, and the >>it truly is, and, of course,we read about, and thescientists tell us of risk we read about, and thescientists tell us of riskfactors. scientists tell us of riskfactors.but there are also many, many factors.but there are also many, manycases, many diagnoses where but there are also many, manycases, many diagnoses wherethere are not the risk factors. cases, many diagnoses wherethere are not the risk factors.it can strike any woman in the there are not the risk factors.it can strike any woman in theprime of life, young women,

it can strike any woman in theprime of life, young women,middle aged women, elderly prime of life, young women,middle aged women, elderlywomen, and that's why it is such middle aged women, elderlywomen, and that's why it is sucha devastating disease. women, and that's why it is sucha devastating disease.but there is so much hope and a devastating disease.but there is so much hope andprogress that is happening right but there is so much hope andprogress that is happening rightnow. progress that is happening rightnow.>>i want to think about the now.>>i want to think about thepercentages. >>i want to think about thepercentages.i understand that the recent

percentages.i understand that the recentstatistics that i have seen i understand that the recentstatistics that i have seenabout 17% of the cancer patients statistics that i have seenabout 17% of the cancer patientsare subject of prostate cancer about 17% of the cancer patientsare subject of prostate cancerand 16% for breast cancer, lung are subject of prostate cancerand 16% for breast cancer, lungcancer, smoking 13%. and 16% for breast cancer, lungcancer, smoking 13%.it is significant contributor to cancer, smoking 13%.it is significant contributor tothis terrible disease. it is significant contributor tothis terrible disease.furthermore, about one person, this terrible disease.furthermore, about one person,one person worldwide is

furthermore, about one person,one person worldwide isdiagnosed with the disease every one person worldwide isdiagnosed with the disease every29 seconds. diagnosed with the disease every29 seconds.>>that's quite a statistic, is 29 seconds.>>that's quite a statistic, isit not? >>that's quite a statistic, isit not?>> it is. it not?>> it is.>>but, today, in america, there >> it is.>>but, today, in america, thereare 2.4 million survivors, >>but, today, in america, thereare 2.4 million survivors,breast cancer survivors. are 2.4 million survivors,breast cancer survivors.that is certainly cause for

breast cancer survivors.that is certainly cause forcelebration. that is certainly cause forcelebration.we have come a long way since celebration.we have come a long way sincethe very beginning. we have come a long way sincethe very beginning.>>let's talk about susan g the very beginning.>>let's talk about susan gkomen. >>let's talk about susan gkomen.tell me a little bit about her. komen.tell me a little bit about her.>>susan komen was my best friend tell me a little bit about her.>>susan komen was my best friend, and she was a peoria >>susan komen was my best friend, and she was a peorianative.

, and she was a peorianative.she was a lovely woman inside native.she was a lovely woman insideand out. she was a lovely woman insideand out.she had a tremendous sense of and out.she had a tremendous sense ofhumor. she had a tremendous sense ofhumor.she loved to entertain. humor.she loved to entertain.she loved children. she loved to entertain.she loved children.she volunteered. she loved children.she volunteered.she did a lot for other people, she volunteered.she did a lot for other people,and she was diagnosed with

she did a lot for other people,and she was diagnosed withbreast cancer at the age of 33. and she was diagnosed withbreast cancer at the age of 33.she had a three year battle. breast cancer at the age of 33.she had a three year battle.she lost that battle at age 36. she had a three year battle.she lost that battle at age 36.>> getting back to her she lost that battle at age 36.>> getting back to herbackground, she is one of two >> getting back to herbackground, she is one of twodaughters of ellie and marvin background, she is one of twodaughters of ellie and marvingoodman, and richwood high grad, daughters of ellie and marvingoodman, and richwood high grad,homecoming queen there. goodman, and richwood high grad,homecoming queen there.>>she was.

homecoming queen there.>>she was.>>missouri, university of >>she was.>>missouri, university ofmissouri, she was a beauty queen >>missouri, university ofmissouri, she was a beauty queenthere, and she started modeling, missouri, she was a beauty queenthere, and she started modeling,is that right? there, and she started modeling,is that right?>> that's right. is that right?>> that's right.she was a professional model. >> that's right.she was a professional model.>> speaking of modeling, you she was a professional model.>> speaking of modeling, youtoo, had been engaged in >> speaking of modeling, youtoo, had been engaged inmodeling.

too, had been engaged inmodeling.>>yes, i had since a very early modeling.>>yes, i had since a very earlyage. >>yes, i had since a very earlyage.since when? age.since when?>> i began when i was 15 in since when?>> i began when i was 15 inbuffalo new york, which is where >> i began when i was 15 inbuffalo new york, which is wherei lived. buffalo new york, which is wherei lived.>>i know you don't want to admit i lived.>>i know you don't want to admitto this, you were the homecoming >>i know you don't want to admitto this, you were the homecomingqueen in your senior year at

to this, you were the homecomingqueen in your senior year atmillikin university. queen in your senior year atmillikin university.>>you are digging. millikin university.>>you are digging.you are digging! that was a few >>you are digging.you are digging! that was a fewseasons ago, but that is you are digging! that was a fewseasons ago, but that iscorrect. seasons ago, but that iscorrect.>>when did you first meet susan? correct.>>when did you first meet susan?>> suzy was returning to peoria >>when did you first meet susan?>> suzy was returning to peoriato live about the same time i >> suzy was returning to peoriato live about the same time imoved to peoria.

to live about the same time imoved to peoria.we actually met on the runway of moved to peoria.we actually met on the runway ofthe charity fashion show, we actually met on the runway ofthe charity fashion show,salvation army fashion show. the charity fashion show,salvation army fashion show.we became instant friends, but salvation army fashion show.we became instant friends, butlearned very quickly that we had we became instant friends, butlearned very quickly that we hada lot of -- in common besides learned very quickly that we hada lot of -- in common besidesthe charity modeling circuit, a lot of -- in common besidesthe charity modeling circuit,and we were raising two young the charity modeling circuit,and we were raising two youngchildren.

and we were raising two youngchildren.we had many of the same goals children.we had many of the same goalsand objectives. we had many of the same goalsand objectives.we became close friends right and objectives.we became close friends rightaway. we became close friends rightaway.>>i know this the perhaps is not away.>>i know this the perhaps is notan area you'd like to dwell on, >>i know this the perhaps is notan area you'd like to dwell on,but the period beginning the an area you'd like to dwell on,but the period beginning thedate you first met her until we but the period beginning thedate you first met her until welost her.

date you first met her until welost her.would you tell us about that. lost her.would you tell us about that.>>we were such close friends, would you tell us about that.>>we were such close friends,and i think i was the first >>we were such close friends,and i think i was the firstperson other than her family and i think i was the firstperson other than her familymembers that suzy called when person other than her familymembers that suzy called whenshe was diagnosed with breast members that suzy called whenshe was diagnosed with breastcancer. she was diagnosed with breastcancer.and i never wanted suzy to feel cancer.and i never wanted suzy to feelas though she were alone.

and i never wanted suzy to feelas though she were alone.i really was with her for those as though she were alone.i really was with her for thosethree years, and we found things i really was with her for thosethree years, and we found thingsto laugh about inspite of the three years, and we found thingsto laugh about inspite of theserious nes of the issue, and it to laugh about inspite of theserious nes of the issue, and itwas suzy's fervent wish that serious nes of the issue, and itwas suzy's fervent wish thatother women would not be was suzy's fervent wish thatother women would not beaffected by this disease. other women would not beaffected by this disease.and, of course, nancy brinker, affected by this disease.and, of course, nancy brinker,her sister, whose vision began

and, of course, nancy brinker,her sister, whose vision beganthe susan komen race for the her sister, whose vision beganthe susan komen race for thecure in dallas, texas. the susan komen race for thecure in dallas, texas.suzy fought very hard. cure in dallas, texas.suzy fought very hard.unfortunately, she lost the suzy fought very hard.unfortunately, she lost thebattle, and her story, of unfortunately, she lost thebattle, and her story, ofcourse, has been repeated battle, and her story, ofcourse, has been repeatedcountless times. course, has been repeatedcountless times.out of the tragedy of suzy's countless times.out of the tragedy of suzy'sdeath, there has come so much

out of the tragedy of suzy'sdeath, there has come so muchgood. death, there has come so muchgood.she would be so grateful for good.she would be so grateful forthat. she would be so grateful forthat.>> and where were you when she that.>> and where were you when shedied? >> and where were you when shedied?>> i was with suzy. died?>> i was with suzy.i was holding her when she died. >> i was with suzy.i was holding her when she died.of course, that is something i was holding her when she died.of course, that is somethingthat will be with me always.

of course, that is somethingthat will be with me always.>> suzy died in what year, that will be with me always.>> suzy died in what year,linda? >> suzy died in what year,linda?>> 1980 at 36. linda?>> 1980 at 36.she was 36 year old. >> 1980 at 36.she was 36 year old.>>let's talk about the 80's, she was 36 year old.>>let's talk about the 80's,specifically music at that time >>let's talk about the 80's,specifically music at that timeand the movie was "flash dance." specifically music at that timeand the movie was "flash dance."60 minutes was a popular tv and the movie was "flash dance."60 minutes was a popular tvshow, still is, the "big chill"

60 minutes was a popular tvshow, still is, the "big chill"was a movie, terms of show, still is, the "big chill"was a movie, terms ofendearment, shir i mc lean, was a movie, terms ofendearment, shir i mc lean,books and awards, jane fonda's endearment, shir i mc lean,books and awards, jane fonda'swork out world, fashion, books and awards, jane fonda'swork out world, fashion,miniskirts, i recall, and we work out world, fashion,miniskirts, i recall, and wealso think about the culture. miniskirts, i recall, and wealso think about the culture.more specifically i think of also think about the culture.more specifically i think oftennessee williams where his more specifically i think oftennessee williams where hisview, author of street desire,

tennessee williams where hisview, author of street desire,etcetera, suggests that there view, author of street desire,etcetera, suggests that therewas a general conspiracy against etcetera, suggests that therewas a general conspiracy againstsensitivity. was a general conspiracy againstsensitivity.did that exist at that time with sensitivity.did that exist at that time withrespect to the discussions about did that exist at that time withrespect to the discussions aboutbreast cancer? respect to the discussions aboutbreast cancer?>> oh, my goodness, very breast cancer?>> oh, my goodness, verydefinitely. >> oh, my goodness, verydefinitely.very definitely.

definitely.very definitely.back in 1980, at the time of very definitely.back in 1980, at the time ofsuzy's death and the three years back in 1980, at the time ofsuzy's death and the three yearsprior to that, breast cancer was suzy's death and the three yearsprior to that, breast cancer wasnot a subject that was readily prior to that, breast cancer wasnot a subject that was readilydiscussed. not a subject that was readilydiscussed.that was extremely difficult for discussed.that was extremely difficult forsuzy because people knew of her that was extremely difficult forsuzy because people knew of herillness, but it was very quiet, suzy because people knew of herillness, but it was very quiet,and they did not know how to

illness, but it was very quiet,and they did not know how toreact. and they did not know how toreact.there were very sensitive times react.there were very sensitive timeswhere we would go outside of there were very sensitive timeswhere we would go outside ofpeoria to go shopping or have where we would go outside ofpeoria to go shopping or havelunch or just do something to peoria to go shopping or havelunch or just do something toget out because it was so lunch or just do something toget out because it was sodifficult for suzy to encounter get out because it was sodifficult for suzy to encounterpeople that she knew. difficult for suzy to encounterpeople that she knew.people didn't know what to say

people that she knew.people didn't know what to saybecause this disease was not people didn't know what to saybecause this disease was notdiscussed. because this disease was notdiscussed.it was not discussed. discussed.it was not discussed.it was not something that people it was not discussed.it was not something that peoplecould talk about. it was not something that peoplecould talk about.one of the tag lines jumping could talk about.one of the tag lines jumpingforward was race for the cure one of the tag lines jumpingforward was race for the curewas for years we ran from the forward was race for the curewas for years we ran from thetruth.

was for years we ran from thetruth.now lets race for the cure. truth.now lets race for the cure.there were emotionnal times with now lets race for the cure.there were emotionnal times withdealing with the disease itself, there were emotionnal times withdealing with the disease itself,of course, but also the reaction dealing with the disease itself,of course, but also the reactionof people. of course, but also the reactionof people.we have made such strides in of people.we have made such strides inthat regard. we have made such strides inthat regard.suzy was a very private, very that regard.suzy was a very private, veryprivate individual, but in her

suzy was a very private, veryprivate individual, but in herheart of hearts, she wanted to private individual, but in herheart of hearts, she wanted tohelp other women. heart of hearts, she wanted tohelp other women.what sets this disease apart help other women.what sets this disease apartfrom other forms of -- if what sets this disease apartfrom other forms of -- ifanything? from other forms of -- ifanything?>> oh, my, my, my, because this anything?>> oh, my, my, my, because thisdisease strikes at the corps of >> oh, my, my, my, because thisdisease strikes at the corps ofa woman's femininity, and there disease strikes at the corps ofa woman's femininity, and thereis so much more involved than

a woman's femininity, and thereis so much more involved thantissue. is so much more involved thantissue.this disease, and that's why tissue.this disease, and that's whythere is so much hope today and this disease, and that's whythere is so much hope today andprogress that is made because there is so much hope today andprogress that is made becausethere are so many better progress that is made becausethere are so many bettertreatment options, earlier there are so many bettertreatment options, earlierdiagnosis, better mammography treatment options, earlierdiagnosis, better mammographythan in the day when suzy komen diagnosis, better mammographythan in the day when suzy komenwas fighting this disease.

than in the day when suzy komenwas fighting this disease.but there is such passion that was fighting this disease.but there is such passion thatis connected with this disease but there is such passion thatis connected with this diseasethat it draws together people is connected with this diseasethat it draws together peoplewho ban together in compassion that it draws together peoplewho ban together in compassionto do all that they can to who ban together in compassionto do all that they can toeradicate it. to do all that they can toeradicate it.>>so the suggestion back then in eradicate it.>>so the suggestion back then inthe 80's and today is that the >>so the suggestion back then inthe 80's and today is that theworld is right for this change.

the 80's and today is that theworld is right for this change.it is out of the closet. world is right for this change.it is out of the closet.it is something we have got to it is out of the closet.it is something we have got todeal with? it is something we have got todeal with?>> absolutely. deal with?>> absolutely.it doesn't take the privacy >> absolutely.it doesn't take the privacyfactor away, but it just is it doesn't take the privacyfactor away, but it just isencouragement to all women every factor away, but it just isencouragement to all women everywhere that they have options and encouragement to all women everywhere that they have options andbetter treatment.

where that they have options andbetter treatment.as i mentioned, earlier better treatment.as i mentioned, earlierdetection. as i mentioned, earlierdetection.that's the key. detection.that's the key.many years ago in the time of that's the key.many years ago in the time ofsuzy's diagnosis, the word many years ago in the time ofsuzy's diagnosis, the word"cure" was not used or it suzy's diagnosis, the word"cure" was not used or itcertainly was discouraged from "cure" was not used or itcertainly was discouraged frombeing used. certainly was discouraged frombeing used.today with early detection, the

being used.today with early detection, thephysicians and the scientists do today with early detection, thephysicians and the scientists douse that word. physicians and the scientists douse that word.so that's extremely encouraging. use that word.so that's extremely encouraging.>>let's talk a little bit about so that's extremely encouraging.>>let's talk a little bit aboutthe beginning of the race here >>let's talk a little bit aboutthe beginning of the race herein peoria. the beginning of the race herein peoria.let's start with suzy's death, in peoria.let's start with suzy's death,and she was survived by her let's start with suzy's death,and she was survived by hersister.

and she was survived by hersister.how did you get involved in this sister.how did you get involved in thisi will call it experience. how did you get involved in thisi will call it experience.>>nancy brinker began sees i i will call it experience.>>nancy brinker began sees ikomen race for the cure. >>nancy brinker began sees ikomen race for the cure.first event was in fall of 1982, komen race for the cure.first event was in fall of 1982,in the fall of the year. first event was in fall of 1982,in the fall of the year.it was all-women's polo match. in the fall of the year.it was all-women's polo match.i was strictly a spectator. it was all-women's polo match.i was strictly a spectator.i was not riding horses! but

i was strictly a spectator.i was not riding horses! butpeople did rally, and they came i was not riding horses! butpeople did rally, and they cameto support the cause because people did rally, and they cameto support the cause becausethis was for breast cancer to support the cause becausethis was for breast cancereducation awareness and this was for breast cancereducation awareness andresearch. education awareness andresearch.by the next year, in 1983 in the research.by the next year, in 1983 in thefall, the fitness craze had by the next year, in 1983 in thefall, the fitness craze hadreally taken off. fall, the fitness craze hadreally taken off.once again, i was invited to

really taken off.once again, i was invited toparticipate in this new event once again, i was invited toparticipate in this new eventcalled "race for the cure" in participate in this new eventcalled "race for the cure" indallas. called "race for the cure" indallas.strictly as a recreational dallas.strictly as a recreationalrunner. strictly as a recreationalrunner.i did train that year between runner.i did train that year between'82 and '83 so i could at least, i did train that year between'82 and '83 so i could at least,in my own touch, make a bit of a '82 and '83 so i could at least,in my own touch, make a bit of ashowing.

in my own touch, make a bit of ashowing.so for about 30 seconds i was showing.so for about 30 seconds i wasfirst out of the shoot in so for about 30 seconds i wasfirst out of the shoot indallas, and i truly felt suzy first out of the shoot indallas, and i truly felt suzywas on my shoulder. dallas, and i truly felt suzywas on my shoulder.it was an event that was filled was on my shoulder.it was an event that was filledwith glamour and celebration, it was an event that was filledwith glamour and celebration,balloons, delicious food, with glamour and celebration,balloons, delicious food,camaraderie, prizes. balloons, delicious food,camaraderie, prizes.it was a beautiful event.

camaraderie, prizes.it was a beautiful event.it so much epitomized susan g it was a beautiful event.it so much epitomized susan gkomen and the people that it so much epitomized susan gkomen and the people thatparticipated in dallas knew komen and the people thatparticipated in dallas knewnancy brinker, but susan komen participated in dallas knewnancy brinker, but susan komenwas a name to them. nancy brinker, but susan komenwas a name to them.so that is when the spark began was a name to them.so that is when the spark beganas to what would happen later. so that is when the spark beganas to what would happen later.so you left dallas? as to what would happen later.so you left dallas?>> i left dallas, on my way back

so you left dallas?>> i left dallas, on my way backto peoria on my flight, i wrote >> i left dallas, on my way backto peoria on my flight, i wrotedown everything i could think of to peoria on my flight, i wrotedown everything i could think ofthat i could remember. down everything i could think ofthat i could remember.of course, that was before that i could remember.of course, that was beforelaptops. of course, that was beforelaptops.so i was -- i was so laptops.so i was -- i was soenthusiastic. so i was -- i was soenthusiastic.i was so excited, and i landed enthusiastic.i was so excited, and i landedin peoria with a notebook filled

i was so excited, and i landedin peoria with a notebook filledof all my reflections and in peoria with a notebook filledof all my reflections andrecollections. of all my reflections andrecollections.it was then -- i mean it was recollections.it was then -- i mean it waswhen i left i had had seen what it was then -- i mean it waswhen i left i had had seen whathad happened, that i knew when i left i had had seen whathad happened, that i knewsomething had to happen in had happened, that i knewsomething had to happen inpeoria because peoria was the something had to happen inpeoria because peoria was thehome town of susan komen and peoria because peoria was thehome town of susan komen andnancy brinker.

home town of susan komen andnancy brinker.guess what? nancy brinker.guess what?it was up to me to launch this guess what?it was up to me to launch thisevent in peoria. it was up to me to launch thisevent in peoria.i felt that strongly about it. event in peoria.i felt that strongly about it.>>mechanically, what happened i felt that strongly about it.>>mechanically, what happenednext? >>mechanically, what happenednext?you deplaned so to speak. you next?you deplaned so to speak. youget off the plane and then what you deplaned so to speak. youget off the plane and then whathappened?

get off the plane and then whathappened?>> well, it was just a focus happened?>> well, it was just a focusthat was very, very strong. >> well, it was just a focusthat was very, very strong.i just continued in my work in that was very, very strong.i just continued in my work inthinking how this structure i just continued in my work inthinking how this structurewould happen, how i could format thinking how this structurewould happen, how i could formatthis event to fit peoria, how would happen, how i could formatthis event to fit peoria, howthe fundraising component would this event to fit peoria, howthe fundraising component wouldhappen, how i would get the the fundraising component wouldhappen, how i would get themedia involved, how i would

happen, how i would get themedia involved, how i wouldshare the concept with the media involved, how i wouldshare the concept with themedical professionals and the share the concept with themedical professionals and thethree medical centers. medical professionals and thethree medical centers.i mean my mind was racing. three medical centers.i mean my mind was racing.>>what made you think that this i mean my mind was racing.>>what made you think that thiswould work in peoria? >>what made you think that thiswould work in peoria?>> being naive can be a good would work in peoria?>> being naive can be a goodthing because a few people that >> being naive can be a goodthing because a few people thati spoke with early on were very

thing because a few people thati spoke with early on were verykind, but they said to me, i can i spoke with early on were verykind, but they said to me, i canalmost quote it. kind, but they said to me, i canalmost quote it.>>go ahead, quote it. almost quote it.>>go ahead, quote it.>>"this is not dallas. >>go ahead, quote it.>>"this is not dallas.this is peoria, and this is not >>"this is not dallas.this is peoria, and this is notgoing to happen here. this is peoria, and this is notgoing to happen here.i think it is great you are going to happen here.i think it is great you aretrying to do this, but don't get i think it is great you aretrying to do this, but don't gettoo excited because this is a

trying to do this, but don't gettoo excited because this is adifferent community, and dallas too excited because this is adifferent community, and dallasis dallas." different community, and dallasis dallas."i knew i had to do it. is dallas."i knew i had to do it.i knew it was the right thing to i knew i had to do it.i knew it was the right thing todo. i knew it was the right thing todo.race for the cure is about love. do.race for the cure is about love.>>what did you do? race for the cure is about love.>>what did you do?>> remember what i said about >>what did you do?>> remember what i said aboutknee evety, i sat down and

>> remember what i said aboutknee evety, i sat down andstarted to write. knee evety, i sat down andstarted to write.it was a blank sheet of paper started to write.it was a blank sheet of paperexcept i had what i could it was a blank sheet of paperexcept i had what i couldremember in dallas. except i had what i couldremember in dallas.so i wrote out a very primitive remember in dallas.so i wrote out a very primitiveplan, and then i starred mapping so i wrote out a very primitiveplan, and then i starred mappingout how i was going to go about plan, and then i starred mappingout how i was going to go aboutcontacting people, calling them out how i was going to go aboutcontacting people, calling themto see if they would be

contacting people, calling themto see if they would beinterested in giving goods and to see if they would beinterested in giving goods andservices and dollars because interested in giving goods andservices and dollars becausethis was a fundraising event. services and dollars becausethis was a fundraising event.this had to raise dollars for this was a fundraising event.this had to raise dollars forbreast cancer awareness this had to raise dollars forbreast cancer awarenesseducation and research. breast cancer awarenesseducation and research.>>fear of failure. education and research.>>fear of failure.>>i didn't know what i didn't >>fear of failure.>>i didn't know what i didn'tknow.

>>i didn't know what i didn'tknow.i didn't know what i didn't know know.i didn't know what i didn't knowit was "i have to do this. i didn't know what i didn't knowit was "i have to do this.i have to do this. it was "i have to do this.i have to do this.i will do this." i have to do this.i will do this."it is like the lyrics of a i will do this."it is like the lyrics of achorus line, what i did, i did it is like the lyrics of achorus line, what i did, i didfor love. chorus line, what i did, i didfor love.>>who did you contact? for love.>>who did you contact?you have brochures i wouldn't

>>who did you contact?you have brochures i wouldn'tknow how to begin. you have brochures i wouldn'tknow how to begin.>>i started making phone calls. know how to begin.>>i started making phone calls.i made a list of everybody i >>i started making phone calls.i made a list of everybody iknew that might phonesly be a i made a list of everybody iknew that might phonesly be asource for either goods and knew that might phonesly be asource for either goods andservices or dollars, and, again, source for either goods andservices or dollars, and, again,as immensed, some of those services or dollars, and, again,as immensed, some of thosepeople were well meaning and as immensed, some of thosepeople were well meaning andsaid "fine, in dallas, but i

people were well meaning andsaid "fine, in dallas, but idon't know about here." said "fine, in dallas, but idon't know about here."but then i thought what is the don't know about here."but then i thought what is theworst thing that can happen? but then i thought what is theworst thing that can happen?what is the very worst thing worst thing that can happen?what is the very worst thingthat can happen? what is the very worst thingthat can happen?, in all of this, putting on the that can happen?, in all of this, putting on theblinders and diving in. , in all of this, putting on theblinders and diving in.diving in the deepened of the blinders and diving in.diving in the deepened of thepool.

diving in the deepened of thepool.the worst thing is people will pool.the worst thing is people willsay no or no thank you. the worst thing is people willsay no or no thank you.>>who we get the race going? say no or no thank you.>>who we get the race going?your template. >>who we get the race going?your template.you have printing. your template.you have printing.you have got media. you have printing.you have got media.how do you even get brochures you have got media.how do you even get brochuresprinted? how do you even get brochuresprinted?>> that started with the

printed?>> that started with theprinting part started with a >> that started with theprinting part started with agentleman in east peoria, printing part started with agentleman in east peoria,metropolitan printing. gentleman in east peoria,metropolitan printing.so i had to get a basic outline, metropolitan printing.so i had to get a basic outline,and do all of this pre-work so i had to get a basic outline,and do all of this pre-workbefore i got to the point where and do all of this pre-workbefore i got to the point wherei knew i needed a vehicle to before i got to the point wherei knew i needed a vehicle tohelp launch it. i knew i needed a vehicle tohelp launch it.but anyway, back to the printing

help launch it.but anyway, back to the printing, i went in and talked but anyway, back to the printing, i went in and talkedto this delightful man named shu , i went in and talkedto this delightful man named shurm burris. to this delightful man named shurm burris.he was a bit crust i oh on the rm burris.he was a bit crust i oh on theoutside, but i thought i could he was a bit crust i oh on theoutside, but i thought i coulddiscern. outside, but i thought i coulddiscern.>>tell me that story. discern.>>tell me that story.>>i knocked on his door, and he >>tell me that story.>>i knocked on his door, and heinvited me in.

>>i knocked on his door, and heinvited me in.his office was filled with invited me in.his office was filled withpapers and notebooks, and he was his office was filled withpapers and notebooks, and he wasrather gruff, but i thought i papers and notebooks, and he wasrather gruff, but i thought icould discern a warm heart. rather gruff, but i thought icould discern a warm heart.so i said i had this story to could discern a warm heart.so i said i had this story totell, and i sat down on told him so i said i had this story totell, and i sat down on told himabout dallas and what i was tell, and i sat down on told himabout dallas and what i wastrying to do in peoria, but i about dallas and what i wastrying to do in peoria, but ihad gnomons, and i needed

trying to do in peoria, but ihad gnomons, and i neededprinting. had gnomons, and i neededprinting.so he just listened, but then he printing.so he just listened, but then helooked toward the window of his so he just listened, but then helooked toward the window of hiswindowless office, and i looked toward the window of hiswindowless office, and ithought, oh, my goodness, i windowless office, and ithought, oh, my goodness, ibetter get out of here because thought, oh, my goodness, ibetter get out of here becausethis may be is not where i better get out of here becausethis may be is not where ishould be. this may be is not where ishould be.so i started to get up and thank

should be.so i started to get up and thankyou very much, and he said "sit so i started to get up and thankyou very much, and he said "sitdown!" so i sat down, and he you very much, and he said "sitdown!" so i sat down, and hesaid "i like it. down!" so i sat down, and hesaid "i like it.i like it. said "i like it.i like it.i will do it. i like it.i will do it.i have had this disease affect i will do it.i have had this disease affectfamily members of my own. i have had this disease affectfamily members of my own.what do you need?" family members of my own.what do you need?"i said five thousand

what do you need?"i said five thousandapplications printing. i said five thousandapplications printing.he said "i will do it. applications printing.he said "i will do it.i will do it!" he sent me down he said "i will do it.i will do it!" he sent me downthe street to jim frye to do the i will do it!" he sent me downthe street to jim frye to do thetype seth. the street to jim frye to do thetype seth.this was before the computers we type seth.this was before the computers wewould used to. this was before the computers wewould used to.that was encouraging. would used to.that was encouraging.from that point, it was full

that was encouraging.from that point, it was fullspeed ahead in trying to, again, from that point, it was fullspeed ahead in trying to, again,map out the strategy with the speed ahead in trying to, again,map out the strategy with themedia, wtvp was ready to help in map out the strategy with themedia, wtvp was ready to help insome way. media, wtvp was ready to help insome way.again, it was not -- i didn't some way.again, it was not -- i didn'thave everything knowing how i again, it was not -- i didn'thave everything knowing how iwas going to do it, finding have everything knowing how iwas going to do it, findingcelebrity input that would maybe was going to do it, findingcelebrity input that would maybedraw visibility in peoria, and

celebrity input that would maybedraw visibility in peoria, andthat came from first lady betty draw visibility in peoria, andthat came from first lady bettyford whom i had met in dallas. that came from first lady bettyford whom i had met in dallas.so one rainy night, i drove over ford whom i had met in dallas.so one rainy night, i drove overto galesburg because she was so one rainy night, i drove overto galesburg because she wasspeaking on behalf of the drug to galesburg because she wasspeaking on behalf of the drugprogram on the west coast. speaking on behalf of the drugprogram on the west coast.i thought if i can get past program on the west coast.i thought if i can get pastsecurity and get a letter of i thought if i can get pastsecurity and get a letter ofendorsement from her, this would

security and get a letter ofendorsement from her, this wouldbe a good thing. so i did! then endorsement from her, this wouldbe a good thing. so i did! thenas time evolved, i thought the be a good thing. so i did! thenas time evolved, i thought thevehicle is going to be the as time evolved, i thought thevehicle is going to be thejunior league of peoria which vehicle is going to be thejunior league of peoria whichwas very near and dear to my junior league of peoria whichwas very near and dear to myheart, and also an organization, was very near and dear to myheart, and also an organization,of volunteers that sees i komen heart, and also an organization,of volunteers that sees i komenwas a member. of volunteers that sees i komenwas a member.>> i want to go back to the

was a member.>> i want to go back to themechanics. >> i want to go back to themechanics.hate to dwell on the mechanics mechanics.hate to dwell on the mechanicsof this a how-to do. hate to dwell on the mechanicsof this a how-to do.we have the printer, typesetter. of this a how-to do.we have the printer, typesetter.what about refreshments. we have the printer, typesetter.what about refreshments.bernie kir, my friend from the what about refreshments.bernie kir, my friend from thechateaux, again, calling on bernie kir, my friend from thechateaux, again, calling onpeople i knew, thinking all they chateaux, again, calling onpeople i knew, thinking all theycan do is say no. i talked to

people i knew, thinking all theycan do is say no. i talked tobernie and i said need can do is say no. i talked tobernie and i said needrefreshments for at least 500 bernie and i said needrefreshments for at least 500people because i thought that refreshments for at least 500people because i thought thatwould be a good showing the people because i thought thatwould be a good showing thefirst year. would be a good showing thefirst year.as it turned out we had over a first year.as it turned out we had over athousand. as it turned out we had over athousand.so i described what i had seen thousand.so i described what i had seenin dallas as far as

so i described what i had seenin dallas as far asrefreshments. in dallas as far asrefreshments.this event in dallas was refreshments.this event in dallas wasdifferent than just a run with a this event in dallas wasdifferent than just a run with aglass of water because there different than just a run with aglass of water because therewere these lovely refreshments glass of water because therewere these lovely refreshmentsand fresh cut flowers and were these lovely refreshmentsand fresh cut flowers andballoons, everything i mentioned and fresh cut flowers andballoons, everything i mentionedthat was so suzy. balloons, everything i mentionedthat was so suzy.i listened again, very

that was so suzy.i listened again, verypatiently, he said i will i listened again, verypatiently, he said i willprovide breakfast. patiently, he said i willprovide breakfast.i will provide a brunch. provide breakfast.i will provide a brunch.the first year and the first i will provide a brunch.the first year and the firstyears he provided individual the first year and the firstyears he provided individualquiche, fruit cups, orange years he provided individualquiche, fruit cups, orangejuice, little muffins for a quiche, fruit cups, orangejuice, little muffins for athousand-plus women! well, he juice, little muffins for athousand-plus women! well, heknew suzy.

thousand-plus women! well, heknew suzy.he loved suzy. knew suzy.he loved suzy.how much more dedicated could he loved suzy.how much more dedicated couldone become? how much more dedicated couldone become?>> what about the race itself, one become?>> what about the race itself,orchestration of the race? >> what about the race itself,orchestration of the race?you can't -- i know you are a orchestration of the race?you can't -- i know you are arecreational runner, that's what you can't -- i know you are arecreational runner, that's whatyou said. how do you get recreational runner, that's whatyou said. how do you getmarshals and monitors?

you said. how do you getmarshals and monitors?what about races? marshals and monitors?what about races?that was, again, the finish line what about races?that was, again, the finish linewas a crucial part of the race that was, again, the finish linewas a crucial part of the racein dallas, and one of the ladies was a crucial part of the racein dallas, and one of the ladiesdown there had said that they in dallas, and one of the ladiesdown there had said that theyhad used a running organization. down there had said that theyhad used a running organization.so bonnie noble had point me in had used a running organization.so bonnie noble had point me inthe direction of the illinois so bonnie noble had point me inthe direction of the illinoisvalley striders.

the direction of the illinoisvalley striders.i went to steve schostrum and valley striders.i went to steve schostrum andphil blockwood still part of the i went to steve schostrum andphil blockwood still part of therace for the cure, presented phil blockwood still part of therace for the cure, presentedthis idea, and once again, steve race for the cure, presentedthis idea, and once again, stevelistened and i thought the worst this idea, and once again, stevelistened and i thought the worsthe can do is say no. listened and i thought the worsthe can do is say no.and he said "we will do it." he can do is say no.and he said "we will do it."i said, i want a shotgun start. and he said "we will do it."i said, i want a shotgun start.he said, no, we don't use guns.

i said, i want a shotgun start.he said, no, we don't use guns.we use a flag. he said, no, we don't use guns.we use a flag.i thought well, that's a small we use a flag.i thought well, that's a smallsacrifice for me to make. i thought well, that's a smallsacrifice for me to make.i will take a flag. sacrifice for me to make.i will take a flag.but would you do the finish i will take a flag.but would you do the finishline? but would you do the finishline?the fin ish line had to be done. line?the fin ish line had to be done.can you imagine the chaotic the fin ish line had to be done.can you imagine the chaoticatmosphere on a saturday morning

can you imagine the chaoticatmosphere on a saturday morningwith runners and walkers if the atmosphere on a saturday morningwith runners and walkers if thefinish line had not been with runners and walkers if thefinish line had not beenprofessionally done? finish line had not beenprofessionally done?the illinois valley striders professionally done?the illinois valley striderscame aboard, and they have been the illinois valley striderscame aboard, and they have beenan integral part of all races came aboard, and they have beenan integral part of all racesfor the cure since the beginning an integral part of all racesfor the cure since the beginningin 1986. for the cure since the beginningin 1986.society first race is pulled

in 1986.society first race is pulledoff. society first race is pulledoff.>>with over a thousand off.>>with over a thousandparticipants. >>with over a thousandparticipants.>>junior league is involved. participants.>>junior league is involved.>>yes. >>junior league is involved.>>yes.>>who are the key players there? >>yes.>>who are the key players there?>> there were people of vision >>who are the key players there?>> there were people of visionearly on. >> there were people of visionearly on.i spoke with mary heller and

early on.i spoke with mary heller andvickie stewart, madonna maloney i spoke with mary heller andvickie stewart, madonna maloneywas my first race co-chair. vickie stewart, madonna maloneywas my first race co-chair.lynn ca, mircel was volunteer was my first race co-chair.lynn ca, mircel was volunteerand director early on. lynn ca, mircel was volunteerand director early on.but it was still a job of and director early on.but it was still a job ofconvincing the membership but it was still a job ofconvincing the membershipbecause these were two convincing the membershipbecause these were twonot-for-profit organizations, because these were twonot-for-profit organizations,and the junior league had never

not-for-profit organizations,and the junior league had neverdone a fundraising event for and the junior league had neverdone a fundraising event foranother organization. done a fundraising event foranother organization.this was new. another organization.this was new.it had never been done. this was new.it had never been done.you know the saying "well, we it had never been done.you know the saying "well, wehave never done it like this you know the saying "well, wehave never done it like thisbefore." have never done it like thisbefore."well, people did have the before."well, people did have thethought of what could happen.

well, people did have thethought of what could happen.so the junior league and the thought of what could happen.so the junior league and thevolunteer base that came out of so the junior league and thevolunteer base that came out ofthat was what pulled it volunteer base that came out ofthat was what pulled italtogether that first year, and that was what pulled italtogether that first year, andthen with the junior league of altogether that first year, andthen with the junior league ofpeoria, i am proud to say that then with the junior league ofpeoria, i am proud to say thatwith the prototype in peoria, peoria, i am proud to say thatwith the prototype in peoria,that became the prototype for with the prototype in peoria,that became the prototype forother races for the cure in

that became the prototype forother races for the cure inother communities with the other races for the cure inother communities with thejunior league. other communities with thejunior league.i chose mother's day weekend in junior league.i chose mother's day weekend inmay, the saturday of mother's i chose mother's day weekend inmay, the saturday of mother'sday weekend as our race day so may, the saturday of mother'sday weekend as our race day soas to not conflict with the day weekend as our race day soas to not conflict with theoctober event in dallas, plus as to not conflict with theoctober event in dallas, plusmother's day added additional october event in dallas, plusmother's day added additionalpoignancy.

mother's day added additionalpoignancy.>>i'd like to talk about the poignancy.>>i'd like to talk about thedubois experience. >>i'd like to talk about thedubois experience.let's go into that. dubois experience.let's go into that.>>going into the middle east? let's go into that.>>going into the middle east?>> yes. >>going into the middle east?>> yes.that was in the fall, october of >> yes.that was in the fall, october of2006. that was in the fall, october of2006.i was with karen house and nancy 2006.i was with karen house and nancybrinker as delegates of the u.s.

i was with karen house and nancybrinker as delegates of the u.s.state department and susan co brinker as delegates of the u.s.state department and susan coman for the cure to meet -- to state department and susan coman for the cure to meet -- tostart this partnership with the man for the cure to meet -- tostart this partnership with theunited arab emerits, and i flew start this partnership with theunited arab emerits, and i flewfrom new york to abudabai on the united arab emerits, and i flewfrom new york to abudabai on thefirst flight with the c.e.o. of from new york to abudabai on thefirst flight with the c.e.o. ofajhiad airlines. first flight with the c.e.o. ofajhiad airlines.it was a comfort because it was ajhiad airlines.it was a comfort because it wasa 16 hour flight.

it was a comfort because it wasa 16 hour flight.we arrived at 3:00 a.m. a 16 hour flight.we arrived at 3:00 a.m.the tree of us were handed a two we arrived at 3:00 a.m.the tree of us were handed a twoinch briefing binder, and told the tree of us were handed a twoinch briefing binder, and toldto be ready at 7 in the morning. inch briefing binder, and toldto be ready at 7 in the morning.so it was a full seven days of to be ready at 7 in the morning.so it was a full seven days ofactivity in the cradle so it was a full seven days ofactivity in the cradlecivilization, i was able to meet activity in the cradlecivilization, i was able to meetroyalty of the region, and the civilization, i was able to meetroyalty of the region, and theprincesses from jordan.

royalty of the region, and theprincesses from jordan.it was something to be on the princesses from jordan.it was something to be on theother side of the world talking it was something to be on theother side of the world talkingabout susan komen from my heart other side of the world talkingabout susan komen from my heartspeaking of peoria, illinois, about susan komen from my heartspeaking of peoria, illinois,heart of america. speaking of peoria, illinois,heart of america.>>the template creation. heart of america.>>the template creation.did you ever think then that it >>the template creation.did you ever think then that itwould be now? did you ever think then that itwould be now?this would be where it is now?

would be now?this would be where it is now?>> i didn't. this would be where it is now?>> i didn't.if i had thought 25 years ahead, >> i didn't.if i had thought 25 years ahead,i would think we wouldn't be if i had thought 25 years ahead,i would think we wouldn't bedealing with this now, and i would think we wouldn't bedealing with this now, andthat's why i hope that very soon dealing with this now, andthat's why i hope that very soonwe can all get together and have that's why i hope that very soonwe can all get together and havea huge party, that we are we can all get together and havea huge party, that we arecelebrating race for the cure in a huge party, that we arecelebrating race for the cure ina different way, not because we

celebrating race for the cure ina different way, not because weare still trying to raise funds a different way, not because weare still trying to raise fundsfor research and awareness and are still trying to raise fundsfor research and awareness andeducation, but we are not there for research and awareness andeducation, but we are not thereyet. education, but we are not thereyet.so it is life long work for me. yet.so it is life long work for me.as long as i am around, i want so it is life long work for me.as long as i am around, i wantpeople to know about susan g as long as i am around, i wantpeople to know about susan gkomen, the person. people to know about susan gkomen, the person.when something grows to be so

komen, the person.when something grows to be sobig, sometimes the fine points when something grows to be sobig, sometimes the fine pointsof real person, a real big, sometimes the fine pointsof real person, a realpersonality get lost.