“When you work with others, and you forge connections, you are even stronger.” -Gail McGovern

Sometime in childhood, shortly after learning to form full sentences, this becomes a popular one: “Mom, I can do it by myself!” Welcome to the human condition – the strong desire to be independent and capable.

Cancer is another part of the human condition: frailty. Our bodies can malfunction. It can happen to anyone. Yet the voice remains, “I can do it myself!” People who battle cancer are incredible warriors who are doing things that no one can do for them – they have an internal battle against invading cells.

But after independence, after frailty, the human condition offers us one more amazing gift: grace. We can help others. We can let others help us. It’s a way of showing love. And it’s a way of healing. But it doesn’t always come easy.

As we head out this Sunday morning to Race for the Cure, thousands of people will be bridging the gap of need with grace. People who need help will be looking to us. People who have the ability to offer help (read: everyone) will be looking for where and how to do it. It’s simple. Hugs, holding hands, raising donations, running, walking, smiling, cheering…

Originally published 8/9/13 on mammographykc.com.