We lost my amazing Mom to cancer in 1996.  She is my hero and the strongest woman I ever known.  She battled it bravely, twice.  Only to have lost the battle the second time around. It wasn't pretty, it was ugly!  I think about her every day and the incredible impact she made on my life and that of Kathy, Stephanie and Samantha.  We are all better because of "Sally". While she lost her battle, others do not have to face a similar fate.  

I have registered for the 100 mile Pan-Florida Challenge Cancer Ride and have committed to raising money to distribute nutritious cancer fighting food to hungry kids, to fund cancer prevention research, and to support cancer patients and their families.

Consider these facts:

• According to the World Health Organization, maintaining a healthy diet and increasing physical activity is an important approach to cancer control.
• A cancer diagnosis can place undue financial burdens on patients and their families. Many patients and family care-givers need to alter their employment status, resulting in potential lost income and loss of insurance coverage.
• According to CancerCare, 70% of patients reported financial hardships because of cancer-related expenses. 50% of patients cut back on grocery expenses because they couldn't afford to buy food and pay for treatments.
• In just eight years, Pan-Florida Challenge has provided over eight million meals to hungry children, providing healthy buidling blocks for their future.

On March 25th, I will join hundreds of other riders who are all committed to fighting cancer. I will endure physical pain so I can help those in our community who need it the most.  Gifts of all sizes will support research and education at partner organizations including Moffitt Cancer Center and Cancer Alliance of Naples. Whatever you can give will help - it all adds up!

We will fight this - together. I thank you, and Sally will thank you, too.