Why Susan G. Komen? Why now? Well, I can tell you why I am doing this. I have known too many women and their families affected by this disease, including my own. Almost 30 years ago my mother lost her fight -- she was at the top of her game and was robbed of seeing my sister marry, meeting her grandchildren and many professional opportunities and personal adventures.  Then, 17 years ago I was diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer.  My daughters were only 6 and 7 years old and I fought hard.  Luckily, Susan G. Komen helped me by providing information, helping me navigate my treatment options, sponsoring 2 clinical trials I participated in and now are mainstream care, and by giving me reassurance that I could do this. Over the years, I have become a top fundraiser because Susan G. Komen is making a difference with the research it is conducting, the services it is providing, and the financial support it offers to patients who need it.  It is even more important this year because federal funding for breast cancer research is in jeopardy.