You know my story. It is not unique. Every year 1.3 million Americans will hear, "You have cancer." It will likely be the most the devastating news they hear. It certainly was for me. In a split second I felt a range of emotions from shock to anger to denial to fear. Because I was surrounded by such supportive people and dedicated medical porfessionals, I found the strength to cast aside the fear and take up the fight.

In retrospect I know that I am lucky that I had breast cancer at a time when the statistics offer hope and, in some cases, as high as a 95% survival rate. Ten years ago, my story may have had a different ending. The reason things have changed is because many people decided to do something: they raised funds and awareness, they lobbied Congress for support, they committed to research and clinical trials. Simply, they cared enough to act. As someone who has directly benefited from this commitment, how can I not take up the cause?

I’m taking action against cancer by supporting the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life® on May 20th and 21st. Relay is an overnight event that unites our community in a common effort to support the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving mission to eliminate cancer as a major health problem. The Society works every day to prevent cancer and save lives by supporting groundbreaking research, affecting public policies that protect us from cancer, and educating people on how to prevent or detect cancer early. Together, we can accelerate the progress toward a cancer-free future.

Even after my battle with cancer, I still find it difficult to ask for help. But this isn't about me. This about winning a battle that, at the current rate, will strike nearly half of us in our lifetime. My generous and supportive co-workers are once again forming a team for this event. Last year we raised $7200. This year our goal is $10,000. My personal goal is to raise $1,000. I would appreciate and be honored by your support, either through making a donation (follow this link for online donations) or forwarding this message to someone you think may support our effort. Either way, you will make a real difference in the lives of people facing cancer – and in the lives of the people who love them.

Thanks for your support. My friends in the virtual world have been a wonderful source of support and encrouagement through this journey. I will walk and I will keep walking as long as it makes a difference.