North carolina sterilization task force, Deborah Chesson spoke through tears Wednesday as she addressed a North Carolina task force on behalf of her mother.

As Thanksgiving approaches, many consumers aren't talking turkey. They're talking deals, and already have visions of doorbusters dancing in their heads.

Despite the weak economy, this year's Black Friday is expected to be bigger than ever, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF).

The NRF reports that 33% of Americans say they're "definitely" braving the crowded retailers after Thanksgiving this year, up from 27% in 2010. Last year's Black Friday raked in $45 million for retailers nationwide with more than 212 million shoppers hitting stores.

According to an American Express Holiday survey of more than 2,000 Americans, shoppers plan to spend an average of $121 more this Black Friday than last; 34% of shoppers plan to have all their holiday gift buying done by the end of the day.