Cancer. It doesn’t choose favorites; it doesn’t discriminate. It is a disease that wreaks havoc on any it may come into contact with. For many, the diagnosis of cancer is one that leads to death. For others, a battle with cancer is an event that changes the course of their future. Either way, there is a certainty in the effect cancer has on relationships, dreams, and day-to-day activities.
Most, if not all, have been impacted by this disease. Personally, my family and I watched my grandmother suffer and eventually lose her battle against cancer. It was a rough time for our family. She was diagnosed with uterine cancer in July 2011 and had a complete hysterectomy performed not long after. After recovering from the surgery, she fought through several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. Common with most chemo and radiation patients, she became nauseous from the treatments. Thankfully, in December 2011, she was confirmed to be cancer-free; however, the end was not near. In June 2012, she went for a check-up scan, and it was determined that the cancer had come back – now in her lungs. After losing her hair from the second round of chemo and radiation, she became malnourished/dehydrated and passed away December 25, 2012.
My story is not an uncommon one. According to the President’s Cancer Panel, 41 percent of Americans will be diagnosed with cancer with a 21 percent mortality rate. With statistics as grim as these, I ask myself, what can be done to fight against such mountainous odds?
Relay for life.
Celebrate. Remember. Fight back. These three ideas embody Relay for Life.
However, Relay isn’t just a time to raise money for cancer research and the necessary expenses of living with cancer. Relay is a time to share hope and love toward those who may have fought or are still fighting their battle. The one thing that helped my grandmother endure the suffering and pain was having a support team cheering her on each step of the way. She knew we loved and cared about her.
Show those who are fighting a similar battle the same love and care. They may need the extra support and energy to cross their metaphorical finish line. The happiness and love that you share may be what saves another’s life. Cancer is not an individual fight; through your participation in Relay for Life, you are letting others know that they are not fighting alone.
Additionally, Relay for Life is a time to commemorate those who have passed on. By remembering the fight and pain they suffered, we are inspired to fight even harder. We will never forget the love, passion, and headstrong personalities of those we have lost to cancer. The memories and spirits of those who have passed on will forever live in our hearts.
I encourage you to volunteer, organize, and/or donate towards Relay for Life. It’s not about raising the most money or being able to walk 100 laps. It is about the unifying spirit of people coming together to support those who need it the most. I know that if I were facing such a battle, I would want to feel normal, valued, loved, and celebrated. Attend a local Relay for Life event and receive the blessing of knowing that you helped a neighbor, friend, or stranger fight for their life. Together, we will be survivors.
