Look up the word "optimistic" in the dictionary and you're sure to find a description of Sandie Litman if not her actual photograph. In the spring of 1998, Sandie, a Roslyn resident, was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine yearly mammography. One might have expected extreme signs of fear, or perhaps bits of depression, but not Sandie. Sandie researched and consulted with experts and became an informed victim prepared to make educated decisions.

Family and friends always knew she was unique, but her fight and determination knew no boundaries. Barely missing a beat, work and family commitments continued through her prescribed treatment plan.

Sandie had participated in "The Race for the Cure" in previous years, but this year's event took on a different meaning, a personal goal. Friendship and support from her friends and family, played an important role in her recovery, so it was essential that she be surrounded by them. Michael, Sandie's husband, came up with "Sandie's Bosom Buddies" as a name for the group of women who would join hands on this symbolic walk against the enemy. Now, by making all her friends and family aware of the importance of early detection, she felt this would be her gift in return.

Her letter went out asking for team members and monetary contributions. The response was overwhelming, though not surprising. All she had to do was ask, and with admiration and affection her friends showed their support in droves. Local businesses did the same as Sandie heard from Spazzo, Matteo's, Churrasqueira Bairrada Rodizio, Bon Apetit, Mark of Excellence, Chicken Kebab, Kitchen Kabaret, Roslyn Beverage, Harbor Hill Cleaners, Yogurt and Such of Greenvale, Ben's of Greenvale. Pathmark Pharmacy of Greenvale, Pierce Coach Line and Kinkos.

So 135 of Sandie's friends set forth on the 18-mile journey from Roslyn to Manhattan by school bus, as Bryan, Sandie's son, captured the enthusiasm on video. Sandie's male friends wouldn't allow themselves to be excluded, so they accompanied the troop to cheer us on along the race route. But the best of all were the out-of-towners who came in for the race. Daughter Stephanie lent her constant show of support once again, after only one week of her freshman year at college. Sandie's mother, Dorothy, flew in from Florida to share in the celebration.

Yes, Sandie is one of the lucky ones. She took the opportunity presented by a potentially negative experience and grew with it. And "Sandie's Bosom Buddies," the fortunate women who escorted her on Sept. 13, grew with her. We walked and ran the 5K route and with each step our hearts and minds filled with Sandie's contagious determination.

By Leslie Popkin