Early last year, 2008, I met a man who loved his wife so dearly that he dedicated his life's work to finding a cure to save her life. She died in the midst of his search. However, he continues to work for all the women and familes who have ever suffered and may suffer this unbearable loss.

I was so inspired by this story of love and commitment that I felt compelled and to show my deep respect for all the women and families who deal so courageously with breast cancer. Within a few weeks of meeting that man, I had a vision of bake sales across the country and thus created Bake for Hope. The idea of bake sales felt so simple and provided an easy way for everone to participate. The project also gave a way to show our love and support for the ones who have loved us since birth. Giving birth to my daughter was the single most important moment in my life, and everyday she reminds me of what is most important in life.

The Bake for Hope project is the opportunity for me to give back in the biggest way that I know how. The project brings a new connection, understanding, and communication to my and my daughter’s relationship. The entire Bake for Hope project is run by volunteers, including me. One hundred percent of the bake sale proceeds go to the local “Susan G. Komen for the Cure” affiliate offices. In that way, locally raised money will stay local and provide support for women in every community across the country.

We love that.