Nicole and I are so much alike. We are both mothers, wives, physicians and passionate about running. I wish that was the end of our similarities. Unfortunately it was actually because of the fact that we were both diagnosed with breast cancer in March that we became friends.
We both had surgery in April, and now I am in the middle of chemotherapy which will be completed 2 weeks before the Women’s 4 Miler. The Women’s 4 Miler has been an event that has been near and dear to each of our hearts for many years, but this year is different. This year we are both intimately aware of the amazing care that is provided by the physicians and staff at the UVA Breast Care Center and know firsthand how the funds raised at the Women’s 4 Miler has made the care that we are receiving even better. We are both incredibly inspired to give back to the UVA Breast Care Center this year by fundraising. We would like to challenge you to do the same. Please reach out to 10 or 20 friends and family and ask for their support. Get the word out on social media. This is a local cause that positively impacts the lives of so many women in our community. Please join us in making this the best fundraising year ever! Sincerely, Heidi Gillenwater and Nicole Kelleher |