Early morning alarms. The Million Vet March and the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure.

The alarm clock on my phone went off at 4:25 AM this morning. All week I have been looking forward to joining some of my fellow military veterans in the Million Vet March. The Phoenix version was scheduled to be held at the Wesley Bolin Plaza near our state capital. Our purpose? We want to show our displeasure at the President and his administration for shutting down open air memorials.  I have an apprentice working with me this week. Even though he hates getting up early he is interested in going to witness this event as well.

 At 6:15 I picked up my friend at his hotel and we headed downtown. When we got close to the plaza I noticed a larger than normal amount of people wearing pink. Because of my day job I am usually more aware of pink and what it represents. I usually know where large groups of people will be gathering wearing pink. I missed it this weekend.

Breast cancer survivors and their supporters prepare for the race to begin.

I had heard that the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure was this weekend in Phoenix. Normally I would be interested in participating. I've been so busy and self absorbed lately that I missed it. I missed everything. I had no clue. The start line was at the Wesley Bolin Plaza, and the plaza was full of people wearing pink.

The veterans weren't going to be marching on the Wesley Bolin Plaza today.

 My friend and I walked through the plaza. It always makes me feel good to see the number of people that are willing to help a cause as worthy as this one. Tens of thousands of people are walking in the race today. The number of volunteers for this event is staggering. Even more than that, it is heart warming.

I can't begin to count the people in my life surviving or fighting to survive a diagnosis of cancer. Many of them are in this plaza this morning volunteering. It makes me feel a little ashamed at my reason for being there.

I went home and brewed another pot of coffee, turned on the TV, and watched the race at home.

Early detection is the key to survival. Please go get screened for whatever is appropriate for you. Breast, cervical, prostate, colon, skin. Whatever! Go get screened, for yourself and for those of us that love you.