There are many events designed to raise money and awareness in the fight against breast cancer, but the most popular by far is the 3-day breast cancer walk. The Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation, Avon and many local organizations run 3-day walks, and anyone is welcome to participate. Don't be fooled, however, by the word "walk." This is a true 60-mile marathon, with camping in between, and you've got to be prepared. After attending the orientation meetings and training walks, what remains is for you to pack wisely. You want to have everything necessary, extras of everything and nothing else. You don't want to lug around a bunch of stuff you don't need, or discover when you're miles from home and in the middle of this big event that you've forgotten some critical item.
Instructions
1. What to wear:
Good supportive walking shoes that you've worn and are sure they're comfortable
Moisture-wicking socks
T-shirt
Moisture-wicking underwear (including bras for females); cotton will make you miserable as you sweat
Shorts if it's expected to be warm: many experienced runners recommend tight bike shorts under running shorts to prevent inner-thigh chafing. Some running groups recommend an inner-thigh sport lubricant (available at sporting goods stores) if you don't like the bike shorts.
Jogging pants or sweatpants (not jeans) if it's cool
Extra lightweight layer like a long-sleeve T-shirt or sweatshirt: make sure the sleeves are long and thin enough to tie around your waist
2. On the walk, you should carry a "fanny pack" filled with the following critical items:
Lightweight hat or bandana
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Extra socks: experienced marathoners recommend socks made of CoolMax rather than cotton for optimum comfort and moisture control
Rain poncho: check with your organizer; these may be provided
ID and health insurance cards: your organizer will require proof of insurance in case you get hurt or sick en route
Prescription medications that need to be taken while you're walking
Cell phone: you'll have to step away from the walking route if you need to use it; most organizers forbid cell phone use on the path for everyone's safety
Protein bars or other lightweight nutritious food
24-oz. water bottle, ideally with a carabiner so you can hook it to your belt
3. Your overnight bag will usually be trucked from the starting point to the campsite for you. In it, you will need:
Two changes of the same kind of clothes you wore on the first day
Extra pair of walking shoes
Pajamas or sweats to sleep in (be prepared for chilly nights)
Flashlight and umbrella
Large plastic trash bags and reclosable plastic bags (for wet or muddy clothes)
Inflatable air mattress: check with your organizer; they may provide inflation at the campsite
Sleeping bag, pillow, extra blanket
Umbrella
Insect repellent
Ear plugs so neighbors won't disturb you while you sleep
Toiletries, described below
4. Don't expect to make yourself perfect each day, but do bring basic necessities to be clean and comfortable, as follows. Don't bring a hair dryer; there will be no place to plug it in.
Flip-flops or shower shoes
Towels/washcloths
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo, conditioner and soap
Antiperspirant
Moisturizer or powder
5. Make lists and cross items off as you pack in advance. Lay your first-day clothes out the night before so you're not running around forgetting things in the morning. Get a good night's rest and eat a healthy breakfast before setting out.
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