It's that time of year again!

Last year, I blogged about my first 5K. It was just not a run for running's sake, it was for a good cause, one that is especially near and dear to me.

I'm participating in my seventh Race for the Cure on Oct. 3. I've done the Race at least once every year since 2004, and I've done it in Kalamazoo, Pittsburgh and St. Petersburg. This year, I'm running the 5K again - but this time, I'm in the competitive timed race. EEK! (The photo at left is from last year's race - my friend Julia was a great motivator to keep up my pace!)

I've set a fundraising goal of $700. Last year, I raised almost $600.

The only reason I'm willing to get up super early and drive 40 minutes to the early morning race after working the night shift is because this is such an important cause. It's the only reason I'll willingly run more than three miles in the Florida humidity. And for every time I consider hitting the snooze alarm, I remember the donations and support I have, and each year, I roll out of bed full of purpose (albeit in desperate need of caffeine).

If you'd like to donate to the cause (every little bit helps!), please visit my donation site.

The money I raise will provide breast health education, screening and treatment, as well as fund breast cancer research.