As I’m writing this post, I’m reliving very fond memories of time spent with my dearly, dearly loved Gran. One of my favorite photos is this one below of her celebrating the christening of my firstborn, her great grandson. Sadly she passed away not long after this. Cancer is a bitch.
I’m also remembering my dearest Aunt, an earthy and gustsy woman who has shaped my life more than she ever realised. I remember her cackling laugh and also her tell-it-like-it-isms always underpinned by much wisdom. Breast cancer at a young age, mastectomy and then in remission for 27 years. When the curse returned it did so with vengeance and took her far too quickly. Cancer is such a bitch.
I can recall choking back sobs at the funeral of a colleague. So tell me cancer, why did you take her? Did you not see her broken and distressed widower cradling their 14 week old, much longed for first baby?
So, so many more dear ones are in my thoughts. A friend of mine from many years ago modelling her new wig, a friend I have who’s awaiting biopsy results, a friend who recently lost her thirteen year old daughter after a very long and traumatic battle, an uncle in remission …..
Where should I stop my list? It’s sadly a list way too long and tragically yours might be also and for that I’m sorry.
The only way that cancer can be beaten is through research, research and then some more research. But of course medical study takes money, money and more money. Cancer truly is a life and money sucking bitch.
Fundraising in aid of cancer research must keep happening until the puzzle is solved and the cure found. With each dollar raised, another step can be taken to ridding the world of this hideous disease.
Thousands of Australian cyclists are again this year lending their pedals, helmets and lycra to the cause and are Riding to Conquer Cancer. Across the nation, and New Zealand too, there will be a series of rides, each over 2 days and traveling more than 200km.
Led by captain Klaus Bartosch is a participating team, The Vision Crusaders , who will be banding together and completing a feat never attempted before now. Every. Single. Ride. The Grand Slam. It’s a huge dream and vision, driven by a passion for the cause.
With 27 members currently in the team ….. at 6 races nationwide (and NZ) per person …… and with a required fundraising entry requirement of $2500 per person, per ride, the maths can be quickly done. It’s a very big number and ever importantly it is an amount that might just provide the key to a cure.
The team are seeking support from major corporations and I believe there are a number of high profile sponsors on board already but there is still a way to go.
You and I can help in a very quick and simple way – by adding our support to their facebook page.
It doesn’t take more than a second, costs nothing and shows potential corporate sponsors that there are many, many people wanting a cure for cancer and cheering on the Vision Crusaders Grand Slam as they pedal there way through 12 days and more than 1200km.
I want a cure found and I’ve like the Facebook page. I’ve also added the Vision Crusader’s badge to my sidebar in support of this cause.
If you too could take the time to add your “like” I know that all 27 members of the team would feel the love, and if you’re a blogger who would also like to get behind this great cause, please feel free to copy the badge, add it to your sidebar and share the message.
Sending much love and strength to all who are fighting the fight and, Gran, you’re in my thoughts so often. I love you.
Linking up this Tuesday with Jess at IBOT! It’s esstentially awesome – so is Jess, I’ve met her – and you can find it here - Essentially Jess!
