During the Chicago Breast Cancer 3-Day, All Abilities Team members walked or wheeled as little or as much as they chose. Each person had the option of being 'swept' from her current location to the next pit stop, the lunch break stop, or back to camp to rest up for the evening's events or the next day's journey. Accessible sweeper vans, volunteered by Superior Ambulance of Elmhurst, Illinois, traveled the route enthusiastically decked out in pink and green All Abilities Team buttons throughout the day. Superior Ambulance ensured that accessible transportation was always available for any All Abilities member who chose to stop at their current location or needed extra supplies such as oxygen tanks or a fully charged battery for a power scooter.
Eating lunch at an accessible seating area. |
The campsites were accessible. |
Numerous cheering stations along the route welcomed participants with cold water, freeze pops, candy, fruit, granola bars, cookies, homemade pink jewelry/decorations and more. Mount Prospect, a Chicago suburb, was especially welcoming as police officers in pink uniform shirts aided at crosswalks, families and friends gathered in front of their homes with snacks and high fives, and Boy Scout troops encouraged tired walkers by thanking them for their dedication to such an important cause.
Day Three finally arrived, an incredibly hot and humid day, even along Chicago's breezy lake front. Our accessible journey ended at Solider Field, home of the Chicago Bears of the National Football League. Participants crossed the finish line, each at her own pace, and then joined hands to enter an emotional Closing Ceremonies. After honoring the survivors who participated, especially our own All Abilities team member Irene, our team members who had started as strangers at the beginning of this journey, left with hugs and memories, and new friends.
Watch event footage and interview with team member Lauren Howard here.