Over the weekend I had a great time taking part in the Pink Elegance Fashion Show and Luncheon at the Radisson in Scranton. The money raised goes to a cause near and dear to my heart, the Komen for the Cure of Northeastern Pa. As a survivor, I can’t tell you how good it feels to know that people care about finding a cure for breast cancer. It was my second year participating, and once again I left with new friends who have managed to keep on living, and are living well, after being diagnosed with this terrible disease.
The first time I met Barb, she was wearing a pink hat to cover her bald head..with two beautiful little kiddies riding in the ‘car’ shopping cart at the deli counter at Wegman’s. I had already finished chemo and radiation and she was in the thick of treatment. We had a nice talk, and reconnected a little while ago when she stopped by the station. She was at the luncheon, her kids modeled some really cute outfits, and she looked terrific. Barb’s hair is growing in nicely, she has had reconstruction, and is looking forward to an upcoming wedding. Life goes on….and she was glowing. We are here to let you know that no matter what life throws at you, you go on.
I talked to Donna, who is a 7 year survivor, the two Lynns…one a 9 year survivor… another 3 year survivor who bravely fought aggressive inflammatory breast cancer and is doing very well. But there was one person missing and I needed to know where she was. The only info I got was ‘she’s dealing with a recurrence’. It broke my heart. The reality is that beneath the glitz and glamour and smiles of the event, there is tremendous heartache. These are people who have seen firsthand this terrible disease. They’ve watched some loved ones fight and win.. they’ve watched some fight and die. For survivors, every day from diagnosis day gets a little easier, but the dark reality of what could happen is never far away. During the Komen event, candles were lit in memory of a loved one. It was such a beautiful sight. The lights were dimmed and every person held a candle and said a prayer. I know I wasn't the only one who got all choked up. Prayers are great, but money is desperately needed to finally find a cure. That's why we do these events.
This year, I am honorary chair of the Relay for Life of the Greater Scranton Area. It’s the major annual fundraising event for the American Cancer Society. This isn’t just for breast cancer, but all cancers. I have my own little page where I’m raising money for the Relay. If you can pop over there and give a little, not for me..but in memory of loved one , it would be most appreciated. If you’d like to get together a team for the Relay, there’s information there on how to participate. It’s a great way to get together as a family, workplace, or with friends to remember loved one’s and raise money to find a cure. The Relay for Life takes place June 13th at Dunmore High School. I would love to see you there.
Corbett
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