World Cancer Day

"I run for hope, I run to feel, I run for truth and all that is real"

-Breast Cancer Survivor, Melissa Etheridge (I Run For Life)

Today is World Cancer Day. Today is a day where we remember those who have lost their battle, support those who are fighting, and honor those who have beat cancer. Today is a day of purple, of life, of living, and of hope. One day we will be able to say that there is a cure for cancer. We will be able to say that we celebrate more birthdays. Guess What? We will be able to say that we helped make that dream a reality. I may not be a doctor or a scientist in a lab working towards this goal, but I can raise money so that they can do so.

Every year since the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life came to my hometown, I have participated in Relay for Life. Here at UVA, it has become an integral part of my everyday life. Not a day goes by that I don't have a conversation about Relay, or a brainstorming session on the side of my notes page. I believe so wholeheartedly in this cause that nothing can stand in my way of doing it. This year, I have the honor of being one of the Recruitment Chairs for our school's event. I am so lucky to be a part of the Exec family I have found in this program. 

Grandmama and I

Every year, I relay for my Grandmama, my Grandfather, Linda, Lauren, Sandy and Olivia. This year, I have added another to my list. While selling tickets for a Relay benefit A Capella concert this fall, I got a phone call from my dear friend and sister in Chi Omega, Laura, telling me that her mom was going to be with God after a long battle with cancer. There has never been a time where I have been more keenly aware of why I relay. I am so honored to stand by Laura and everyone else as we raise money for the American Cancer Society and cancer research and patient care. 

Well, now you know my story, but how does this affect you.

Laura and I are Down to Fight. Are you?

First, Purple Your Profile. Chevrolet will donate $1 to the American Cancer Society for every person who participates in this campaign. It is such an amazing way to raise money and awareness for the organization.

Secondly, find your event and get involved. We can fight cancer together. Make a team, join a team, volunteer at an event, do whatever it is that you feel comfortable with. Together, we can find the cure.

And finally, donate. Donate whatever money you can. Buying a piece of pizza at a late-night bakesale on Beta Bridge even sees that money going right back to Relay for Life. If you're looking for someone to donate to, I would be honored if you would donate to my personal fundraising goal.

We can do it. We will beat this, together. Let's work towards a world where World Cancer Day is a celebration for finding a cure.

xoxo,

SSP