One year ago I was driving toward the sunset on Walla Walla's little freeway. Passing by Borleske Stadium, I noticed rows of lighted white bags lining the adjacent track. I saw people gathered on the track and among booths. Hmmm. What is that event, I wondered.
Little did I know that three months later I would be diagnosed with breast cancer and one year later, I would be among those people and the lighted white bags.
Friday, June 12 is the first day of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. Every year, community teams are organized for a friendly competition to raise money to fight cancer. So yes, I know you hear it coming: the fundraising ask! Will you give a gift?
Here is a link if you want to help out or get event details. http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY09National?px=10848646&pg=personal&fr_id=14628
I am humbled to realize that cancer treatment has advanced incredibly in recent years. At our first meeting, Dr. Gadi told me that newer cancer drugs have changed the outcomes for my type of aggressive cancer from the worst to some of the best.
I had good news after my recent scan, and I want to continue having good news after future scans. But most of all, I want everyone else who has to experience this to hear good news when they walk into those examination rooms.
Finally, I want to "pay forward" for the gifts, flowers, food and other support we have received from friends and family. Thank you! Our family is so appreciative.
Our team, God's Squad, has had a bake sale, car wash, yard sale and secured raffle items. We have raised over $4,200 toward our $5000 goal. So far, we have the 2rd highest amount raised of the 35 teams in Walla Walla.
P.S. Yes, of course you can give after the event!
P.P.S What may not be clear from the Relay for Life website is that each team has a booth at the event to raise money. We are selling food and raffle tickets for bikes, weekend vacation rentals, golf passes, and more. Please let me know if you would like to see a list.
P.P.S What may not be clear from the Relay for Life website is that each team has a booth at the event to raise money. We are selling food and raffle tickets for bikes, weekend vacation rentals, golf passes, and more. Please let me know if you would like to see a list.
2 comments:
What a great thing, Rosa! I'd love to help out...not sure I can afford any of the raffle items, but I'd like to donate something. Perhaps we can chat on Sunday...while we're sitting at the booth, either cold or roasting hot, answering the same questions over and over and over....
:)
Great post, Rosa. Really puts it in perspective, what a difference a year can make. I hope the event went really well this weekend!
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