Gwen Gardner

Gwen is a 5-year breast cancer survivor and has been a part of the Richmond Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® for four years and a volunteer for two of those four years. She has been a true delight to work with and her positive enthusiasm is so contagious. She is extremely dedicated and has a take charge attitude.

She has managed the process of packet pick-up and in two years has made this job painless for the committee. She is always ready to step up without hesitation. Whatever task you ask of her, she takes it on, owns it and gets the job done.

Gwen is a true advocate for the cause. She speaks to people about breast cancer in such a caring way that puts them at ease. Her generous nature allows her to personally meet others to help them through the process of beating the disease. She has even traveled from Richmond to Nashville, TN in order to be at the side of a friend as they went through surgery and chemo. This is evidence of her strong will and desire to help improve the lives of others.

Gwen is one of the rare individuals who give her time unselfishly from the heart. Gwen makes the cause a part of her every day life and even schedules vacation from work the week before the Race so she can give 100 percent. As we in Richmond have been reflecting on the success of this year's Race and prepare for next year, Gwen is already planning for next year, having requested a week of vacation from her job for our 2008 Race for the Cure.

Gwen's efforts are not just limited to Richmond. She generously shares her passion for the cause with others and will be participating in the Charlotte and Nashville Races this year.

Gwen is a great recruiter of volunteers because she has such a good time herself. She not only recruits during the Race season, but she is a promoter of the cause throughout the year. She eagerly participates in health fairs and recruits family and friends on a continuous basis.

Gwen's passion and dedication for the cause is one to be admired. Her commitment, not only to the Race, but to each person she comes in contact with, is undeniable. Her determination and giving spirit are definitely empowering as she keeps her promise to find a cure against breast cancer.

With Gwen on our side, "together we can make a difference".