Sadly, Monica's condition advanced to point where her body could not tolerate any strenuous activity. The disease has progressed in her bones and her liver. I elected to do this walk as an act of love and devotion to her.

Monica once again showed the world that the disease would not keep her away from the events that shaped her as a survivor and as a sister to the many other breast cancer survivors on the walk. Instead of walking, Monica became an honorary member of Cowguy's Moo Crew and cheered the 3000+ walkers as they made their way through the streets of Washington, Arlington Virginia and Montgomery County.

This walk proved to be the most emotionally draining for me. I knew in my heart that it would be the last walk she would ever be a part of. The 39 miles that I walked that weekend were the longest 39 miles I have ever walked. For the first time in my walking career, the hand that held mine for the many miles that we walked as a team was empty.

The most heart-breaking moment of the walk came when after six hours of cheering on walkers, Monica's body told her that is was time to leave. I left Monica to Cowguy's care right after lunch on the Hill from Hell leading up to Sibley Memorial Hospital. The picture of Monica with Seth is etched into my mind forever. The pink Cadillac that they are sitting in was the car in which she was taken away from walk. I will never forget her face as the car drove away.

Monica was able to rally that weekend and return for closing ceremonies. The picture of she and I together is spiritual in nature. Yes, it was coincidental that the sun was behind Monica for that shot, but how can anyone miss the aura of light that was created directly over Monica's head. I don't ask any more.