Happy St Patrick's Day/Mary's Walk 2013

A chilly day for a walk but, nevertheless, a good day to raise money for cancer research.  Mary's Walk does just that!  Raising to date, 2 million dollars for cancer research.  My husband and I have only been a part of this walk since 2011 when his secretary for 26 years died of liver cancer in January of 2011.  So many people have been touched by cancer, whether it is a family member or friend and the stories are so moving. Team Orr was not as big as the first year that we walked but still was a good turnout.

Kim Block was the Master of Ceremonies and had her own story to tell. Her father died of cancer at the age of 59 so she is very connected raising money for cancer research. 

Opening ceremonies

Sea of Green

Let the walk/run begin. Just so happens this year the walk is on St Patrick's Day.   I would definitely stay away from Main Street in Saco on this day every year.  Traffic was stopped for at least 20-30 minutes while runners/walkers went through the traffic lights downtown.  The intersection of North Street and Main Street was backed up for miles.  Check out all the green in the pictures of the walkers and runners!!! 

Sandy's husband, Terry and Mark

Great way to celebrate St Patrick's Day!!!

Mary's Walk 2011

Over 2500 people participated

There were 150 people for Team Orr

After the walk, we were still standing

St Patrick's Day couture

Yesterday was a celebration and remembrances of people close to those you chose to walk to raise money for the Maine Cancer Society.  Our group walked for my husband's secretary, Sandy Orr, who died on January 18, 2011 of liver cancer.  She was diagnosed in December 2011 and was 61 years old.  A wonderful person who would do anything for anybody.  She worked at Waterboro Elementary School for 27 years.  There were about 150 people walking for "Team Orr" yesterday to remember Sandy.  It was a wonderful day and even the rain held off for all of us walkers and runners.  The walk route started at Thornton Academy in Saco and ended at the Kerryman Pub.  In the Kerryman Pub parking lot, there was food and drinks for all participants.  I saw Amato's italian sandwiches, beef stew, chinese food, ice cream, coffee and water. I am sure this will be an annual walk to remember Sandy.  She would have like this because it is money well spent to help others.  Helping others is Sandy's legacy!  Miss you and love you Sandy forever!