Billie Anne, a wife, mother of four, elementary school teacher and Sabbath School leader was only 43 when breast cancer took her life. On that same day her sister-in-law Judy Leach was giving birth. The passage of one family member and the arrival of new life on the same day within a family was a reminder of how uncertain the journey of life can be.

As a tribute to her sister-in-law's memory, Leach encouraged the members of Sunset Christian Fellowship (SCF), in Hillsboro, Ore., to volunteer in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. "Our church is very focused on meeting community needs," says Leach. Members are continually engaged in local, regional and international service through a variety of programs. SCF spotted a need. An event featuring thousands of participants requires lots of volunteers.

Dozens of SCF members woke up before dawn on a Sunday morning to volunteer at Portland's largest women's health special event designed to bring hope and healing for those touched by breast cancer. The group was determined to put their faith into action in a creative way. Church members collaborated with Adventist Medical Center and helped pass out more than 2,000 bananas. Other members helped cancer survivors cross the finish line while another team was there to share strength and courage with those who have lost loved ones.