On Sunday October 9th 2012 more than one-thousand people came out in support of finding a cure for breast cancer at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Portland. On this Fit at Five we introduce you to one breast cancer survivor that looked to this race as inspiration to become more active.
Dawn Palmer is your perfect example of just how much can change in just a year. In January 2011 Dawn found a lump in her breast and chose to quickly undergo treatment. Her doctors had encouraged her to eat whatever she wanted while in treatment, but Dawn took that to a whole other level. Finding comfort in food packed on the pounds, but luckily for Dawn she had another source of comfort...her friends. That fall her friends and family rallied behind her and took part in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Dawn had no problem fundraising for the race, but because she had never been active walking a 5K was a challenge.
This year Dawn knew that it was time to make changes in her life to lead a healthier lifestyle. She started attending Weight Watchers meetings and in a year has dropped 35 pounds. She says that it is the little changes that she has made that really make a difference. She now parks farther away from where she is going, she takes takes the stairs, and walks with friends during her lunch break. This year not only did Dawn's team raise $4,500, but Dawn was able to finish the 5K with a smile on her face.
We have provided a link to Susan G. Komen Maine for more information on their fundraising events.