There in Spirit

Two weeks ago, my dear friend Linda completed the 2006 Philadelphia Breast Cancer 3-Day, walking 60 miles and raising $6,000 toward the eradication of breast cancer.

Here she is with her team, who collectively raised an amazing $43,000 for the cause. (She's the one with the grin on the far right.)

I wish I could have been there—to walk alongside her, to cheer her on from the sidelines, to exult with her at the finish line. She has done all three for me, and much, much more.

My heartfelt appreciation goes to Linda, to her teammates, to the other 3,000-plus walkers who helped raise nearly $7 million in one weekend, to the crew members who made it possible, and to all of you who supported their efforts by making donations, sharing advice, and sending love and encouragement.

Thank you.