Let me preface this blog by saying: "I am not a blogger"
However, sometimes neat things happen and you feel like sharing it with everyone. So, I blog. I had the opportunity this weekend to work (not an appropriate word) the DFW 3-Day Expo. For those of you who don't know, it is the 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk kick-off, learn new things, buy much needed items, and get advice event.
A little history may help you understand where this is going. When I moved to Texas in 2006, I was asked to be a part of the sports medicine team. Being new to the area and busy with a new job, the only time available was small but much needed. I helped out at a couple of pit-stops for a few hours. In 2007, I was more settled with life, knew more people and gave up the whole weekend to camp and give of myself for three straight days. I cannot even begin to put that experience into words. To think that something as small as a band-aid or piece of 2nd skin could bring such huge hugs and smiles from women and men, well, it's amazing. We had some of our students come out to help and they talked of the event and the blisters for weeks. I could go on and on with stories but I will get to the point of this blog.
I was asked to help at the Expo and I did so without hesitation. It was basically 3 hours of repeating how to take care of a blister with a few quick evaluations thrown in. Towards the end, I was walking around handing out a hydration recommendation sheet and a couple of women stopped me. With the hundreds of feet I looked at last year, I was unable to remember all of them. However, this lady remembered that I had taken care of her feet and once again thanked me for getting her through the walk. I will admit that I was already tired of talking about blisters, but you know what? That small reminder of my past experience made it all worthwhile.
At this point, I will insert a shameless plug for the sports medicine crew. We are always in need of volunteers for the team; either for the weekend, the day, a few hours, whatever you can give. The 3 Day is Nov 7-9 this year and information will be sent via SWATA listserve calling for volunteers. Don't just delete the email; think about a few hours you could give up to gain so much.
2 comments:
I want to echo your sentiments. I had the opportunity in 2005 to work the 3-day in June. These selfless ladies and gentlemen walk 60 miles over 3 days and you can't help but admire what they are doing. It was hot, and tiring but definitely not thankless. It was a wonderful experience to get out there and serve the community and at the same time promote athletic training.
I saw some of the biggest blisters ever! I haven't been able to do it since as it was moved to October, but maybe this year!
This past April, I worked the Avon Walk which is 2 days. Another tiring but wonderful experience.
Check out events in your area and recruit your fellow athletic trainers to volunteer their time. I promise it is worth it!
Kelley thank you so much for that post. I have also not been able to volunteer because it was in October but this year I will be doing all three days. This is something that we can do to help people and families dealing with this struggle. As a person who has personally had to struggle with friends and loved ones dealing with cancer we do apreciate the support very much!
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