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Cancer survivor joins D.C. Race for the Cure by Donna Bailey Public Relations Charlene Daughtrey received the invitation of a lifetime: join Vice President and Mrs. Gore for the 10th Anniversary Komen Race for the Cure in Washington, D.C. More than six years ago, she vowed to do all she could to put an end to breast cancer, the terrible disease that invaded her body. She made it her mission to volunteer and encourage women diagnosed with cancer to take an active role in their treatment by asking questions and participating in cancer survivor support groups. On June 4, she accompanied 1999 Charleston Komen Race for the Cure chair, Lynn Sellers, and media chair Betsi Green to Washington, as they joined 65,000 participants—10,000 of whom are breast cancer survivors—in celebrating life and honoring those who have died. “At the beginning of the race, the survivors were invited to a commemorative walk,” said Daughtrey.  “Imagine listening to the music of Gloria Gaynor's ‘I will Survive’ surrounded by a sea of pink. Everyone dressed in pink, pink balloons, giant inflatable pink ribbons. Imagine how uplifting that would be.” “Those were the most powerful steps I'll ever take,” she said, “with the most inspiring people I've ever met. It represented all breast cancer survivors.” “When people come on race day, they bring their family, friends and co-workers to cheer people on or honor the memory of someone,” said Daughtrey. “For some people, it can be an overwhelming situation to know what to do or how to help in a cancer situation. By participating in The Race for the Cure, loved ones can bring money to this cause and educate people. This is a way to make a statement.” One of the things that most impressed Daughtrey was seeing women at the race who were in the midst of treatment. “There was energy and the true essence of survivorship. Regardless of where people are in treatment, there is still that human spirit.” Christine Jurant, clinical research associate, describes Daughtrey as a godsend to Hollings Cancer Center (HCC). For the past few years she has been a patient advocate working in the Clinical Trials Program Office and doing whatever it takes to help.  “We love her dearly, not only for her enthusiasm and cheerful disposition,” said Jurant, “but because she has been the glue that's held us together when we were short staffed and harried.”  Daughtrey spends a lot of time answering questions for patients in person or on the telephone.  “It has made me realize that what is difficult for one might not be for another,” she said. “The important thing is to just listen and give them what they need.”  In addition to her volunteer work at HCC, she has been involved with Charleston Komen Race for the Cure for the past five years. For the past two years she has been survivor co-chairperson.  As both survivor and volunteer, Daughtrey is keeping her promise to get the word out about breast cancer. “Charlene is an amazing person,” said Sellers. “Anyone who meets her is a better person for knowing her.”