By: Jenna Rehnstrom
jrehnstrom@kcautv.com
Tricia and Carolyn have been friends for years. But when Carolyn was diagnosed with breast cancer – their friendship grew even more. And now, in addition to girls nights and weekend chats... You can add *volunteerism* to their favorite times together.
Spending some time with Tricia Carrell and Carolyn Hogan, it's obvious these two have fun together. But ask Tricia about a time three years ago when she found out her longtime friend had breast cancer... and her mood changes.
"The hardest things for me was when I knew how upset she was and how frustrated she was – and maybe on those 'glass half empty' days, for me it was the hardest to try to turn that around, because sometimes you just want to agree, but you know that's not in [their] best interest. So, to just keep that front and not let your fear show..." Tricia commented.
"You find out who your friends really are – Tric is a true friend. She was always there if I needed anything," Carolyn said.
Through the surgeries and the chemo, Tricia and Carolyn were side–by–side. And, through it all, not only did they give each other invaluable support... but they also inspired each other.
"When Carolyn was well enough –even going through her treatments, she was down volunteering at the Cancer Center, volunteering with the Komen Foundation... really making a difference in the community. To watch her turn around and just give so much back, and to celebrate live and embrace it, was really amazing," Tricia said.
That's why Tricia is this year's volunteer coordinator for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. She's getting involved to honor her dear friend. And she hopes others will do the same.
"If everybody could do just a little bit... we could get a real grip on this and make a difference to eradicate breast cancer."
The Race for the Cure is looking for lots of volunteers, in all different areas. If you're interested, the race is Sunday, May 5th (the Sunday before Mother's Day) in downtown Sioux City.
You can sign up to volunteer or run/walk by following this link: http://www.komensiouxland.org/komen-race-for-the-cure/
