Another crisp Fall Sunday morning in September, and another opportunity to walk to support a terrific cause, the Jimmy Fund, to help, in some small way, to contribute to the never-ending battle against the cancer that has claimed and impacted so many lives.
We first became involved with the walk more than a dozen years ago, because Jackie's sister, Anne Blake, convinced her sister to join her for a leisurely jaunt from Wellesley to Boston to take part in the fund-raiser.
We've been there in one form or another as a family every September since.
This year, though, is different.
We lost Annie in July. She had twice beaten back leukemia, but the side effects of transplants and residual infections proved to be too much.
So in 2016, more than ever, Jackie and Heather are determined to log the 13.1 miles in Annie's memory. Ugly socks and all. They'll be joined for the trek by Jack's sister Cheryl, and Jackie and Annie's brother Don.
Andrew and I, as in most years, are running out from the finish to meet the walking warriors, and we'll all walk in together. This year will be a special finish, but will unquestionably have a different feel to it.
Using this opportunity to look back on some of the times that Annie was able to lead the charge. (Couldn't easily access 2004-2008 pics)
This year's for you Annie.
2009
2010
2011
2012
There's still time to donate to this year's member's of Annie's Army to help support their inspirational effort
Click on their name to link to their fund-raising pages:
and our friend Christine Cole, who also walks every year for her loved ones and beyond:
We'll be thinking of you every step of the way, Annie
