A
few weeks ago, I had the misfortune of landing in the hospital for two weeks
while I recovered from heat stroke and kidney failure. While much of my stay is
a blur, and I certainly don’t ever wish to repeat the experience, I remember
having one thought each and every day while I was sitting in that hospital bed.
Cancer
patients have to go through this exact same thing – sometimes again and again and
again.
They
have to endure all the same needle sticks, IV bags, exhaustion, confusion,
doctor visits, crummy food, and feelings of despair and fear that I experienced.
And
sometimes, they have to do it for months or years at a time, not days.
After
watching my mother battle breast cancer for eleven years, I knew that cancer
survivors were tough, but gosh, I never realized not only the physical
strength, but also the absolute mental fortitude it takes to stare down cancer
– and go to battle against it.
My
mother may have lost her battle to breast cancer, but it wasn’t for lack of a
positive attitude, mental toughness or an unwillingness to fight – sometimes,
cancer just wins.
And
I’m tired of cancer winning.
And so, as
I have ever year for the last ten years, I will again be participating in the
Relay for Life of Mount Vernon, walking the track for 24 hours on June 7-8 to
raise money for the American Cancer Society.
This
is what I do – it’s what I’m known for around town – it’s my calling.
It’s
why I own a purple wig – and wear it proudly. :-)
I
believe so much in American Cancer Society – and in the power of Relay for Life – that I continue
to serve on the Lakeshore Division Relay Advisory Team, which grants me the privilege
of mentoring other Relays, working on training for hundreds of Relayers, and
helping advise on the future of Relay in our Division, while also serving on
the committee here in Mount Vernon and as team captain for the library team.
The
only way Relay for Life works, though, is through fundraising – and that’s
where I need you.
I
need your support – and your dollars – so that cancer doesn’t win.
I
want to Finish the Fight.
I
want to never have to Relay around the track ever again.
Please
help me make cancer history – make a donation to my Relay for Life effort
today. It’s quick, secure and easy: simply navigate to my page and use your
debit or credit card to make a donation.
If
you don’t want to donate online, you can get in touch with me about donating
via cash or check – it all goes towards the same fight.
I’m
tired of cancer winning, and I’m sure you are too. If you are ready to Finish
the Fight, please consider making a donation to my efforts today, and let’s
make cancer history. Even if you aren't able to make a donation, your love and support make every Relayer stronger. Thank you.
With
so much gratitude,
Marissa
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