I have been participating in Virginia Thurston Healing Garden programs since my initial recovery from treatment for Uterine Leiomyosarcoma Cancer in 2021 which subsequently metastasized into my abdomen, spine and right humerus. I've received spiritual, physical, and mental support through groups, individual spiritual support and counseling, retreats, massage, movement, creative arts and sound healing treatments. The Healing Garden offers support programs for cancer patients and their caregivers with any diagnosis and at any stage of their treatment. Participating in these activities has helped me see the many faces of cancer and to draw strength, hope and courage from the stories of other people on this path to continue my journey with this disease. All of these programs are offered either free of charge or on a sliding scale and are 100% funded by private donations, so this fundraiser is an important part of the effort to continue this broad, welcoming service into the future. My goal is to walk with my family -- Peter, PJ and Beau and Arrow, our dogs, at some our favorite spots starting on 8/8/24 and continuing until my next surgery which is at this time unscheduled, but coming soon. Walking and hiking have been a life-long passion and began with walking to school with my friends when I was in kindergarten and exploring the open space behind our house with my sister and our neighborhood friends. I have my Mom to thank for sparking this life-long passion by enabling a free-range childhood and those solo walks to school with friends. Peter has been my constant partner for the past 25+ years, walking with me all over this country and in other parts of the world. We've enjoyed many hikes together in both natural and urban settings. I am grateful PJ caught the hiking bug. He's gone beyond what I can do and I hope he keeps climbing! Please support me to keep walking and support this beautiful healing space.