A Carthage woman will attempt to complete the demanding 39.3-mile Avon Walk for Breast Cancer later on this year, and she is seeking help from Moore County residents. The Avon Walks, nine in all, are being held in major metropolitan areas across the country. Rene Murphy has entered the walk that takes place in Charlotte, Oct. 2526.

Her motivation is simple.

"As part of my New Year's resolutions, I wanted to do something really huge to help those around me this year," she says. "I also wanted to get a sense of personal satisfaction by doing something out of the ordinary, as well as getting in shape.

"So when I was watching the Lifetime channel on television and saw an announcement about the Avon Walk, I at first wondered if I could walk 39.3 miles, and then decided this would be the perfect answer to my quest to do something important."

Although not a cancer survivor herself, Murphy thought that there would be no better way to show support for those who have dealt with breast cancer, and to raise money for a cause that directly affects women. She went online and signed up as a volunteer walker.

Attending an introductory meeting in Charlotte several weeks ago, she was moved by the stories of the pain and suffering of the women she met, and by their determination and dedication.

She talked with one woman, a breast cancer survivor, who has signed up as a crew member, since she is still not strong enough to complete the walk.

At the introductory meeting, participants learned that they walk 26.2 miles the first day -- the distance of a marathon -- ending up at a Wellness village, where they can get a hot shower and a massage if needed, then are provided with dinner and a tent in which to sleep. The next morning after breakfast, they finish the 13.1 miles and attend the closing ceremonies.

"Not an easy way to spend a weekend, but a very worthwhile one," says Murphy. "Right now they have about 420 walkers signed up, but of course that number is increasing every day. Each walker must raise $1,800 in order to participate. So far, there are only two of us signed up from this area The other woman, Robin Raube, and I have formed a team. We call ourselves The Pinkies, and we would be delighted if others would join us. I will be leading training walks on several weekends in the next few months, so we can practice on shorter distances, and we would be glad to have company on these walks as well."

Murphy has gotten out letters to family and friends, asking them to donate whatever they can to help her reach her goal of $1,800. And she mentions that for those who wish to donate online, they can do so by accessing the Avon Walk.com. Type in the Charlotte walk, and then in the lower right hand corner of the screen, under Charlotte supporters, select Donate to a Participant, and type in either Murphy's or Raube's name.

For those interested in learning more about the walk, Murphy may be reached at 3019 Kelly Plantation Road, Carthage, NC 28327, or (910) 783-8151.

Contact Pinehurst freelance writer Mary Elle Hunter at mhunter104@yahoo.com.