$341.83 raised $750 goal

My Reason to Relay

I am participating in the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life because I want to make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer.

Almost everyone has been touched by cancer, either through their own personal battle or through someone they love. I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in March 2010. Thanks to following my "gut feeling" and getting an early diagnosis, I was cancer-free after three surgical procedures, two of which were pretty extensive and difficult to recover from.  But, thankfully, I did not have to go through chemo or radiation treatment. While I was recovering from my staging surgery and still unable to drive, the American Cancer Society's "Road To Recovery" program helped get me to my necessary follow-up appointment with my oncologist in Pittsburgh. I am still following up with my oncologist every 3 months.  I have been cancer-free for 2 years, and after 3 more years, I'll be considered officially CURED.  

I'm grateful for the help offered to cancer patients. Not everyone is as lucky as I was. Some face the struggle of multiple treatments and appointments, unexpected expenses, etc. Some need to get more education about their disease and types of treatment. Some need encouragement and support. The American Cancer Society offers all of these things while staying committed to FINDING A CURE!

I had always donated to Relay For Life and have helped with past fundraisers, but I never attended the actual Relay event until a co-worker asked if I would come to walk the Survivor Lap at McDowell High School 2011 Relay For Life.  I wasn't sure what to expect, but it was one of the most emotional and heartwarming experiences of my entire life.  When we stepped out onto the track to kick off the event with the Survivor Lap, everyone in the bleachers stood and cheered and clapped and whistled--congratulating us for SURVIVING CANCER!  The tears quickly streamed down my cheeks and as I walked, I SOBBED.  It was very overwhelming, and honestly at times I felt that I didn't deserve to be out there with women who had been through chemotherapy and radiation, who had lost their hair or even their breasts due to their battles with cancer.  I felt that I hadn't suffered enough to be considered a "survivor".  I realize that I am very lucky to have been diagnosed early, and I was honored to be included in a group of such courageous people who have struggled to fight this disease.  Equally so, I was proud to be part of a group of people dedicated to helping to raise money and awareness so that others can be diagnosed and treated early and have it as "easy" as I did, so that they don't have to suffer--or so that they can prevent cancer altogether.

Every day, the American Cancer Society is helping us stay well by preventing cancer or finding it at its earliest, most treatable stages. They assist families in finding the best resources to help their friend or loved one deal with a diagnosis and their journey to get well. The American Cancer Society is also rallying communities (like ours!) through events like Relay For Life, to fight back and find cures for this disease.

THIS IS WHY I RELAY!

Please join my team or make a donation to help the American Cancer Society create a world with less cancer and more birthdays. Together, we can help make sure that cancer never steals another year of anyone's life!

Nikki

Team Captain, Nikki's All-Stars

Cheer me on!