The Big Day

The day I've been training for all summer is nearly here: The LIVESTRONG Challenge will convene in Philadelphia this Sunday, benefitting the Lance Armstrong Foundation's fight against cancer. My mom has flown to DC just for the occasion, and my family and I are leaving bright and early Saturday morning to drive up, collect our registration packets, and soak up the positive energy from the hundreds of other dedicated cyclists, walkers, and runners united in the quest to find a cure for cancer and empower those living with it right now.

Perhaps somewhat coincidentally, I learned this morning that a woman in my church congregation, a friend by the name of Holly, went to the hospital last night. She is one of a very elite group who can claim acquaintence with not one but two types of cancer simultaneously. Last winter, she was diagnosed with lymphoma. Early this summer, her doctors found another tumor in her abdomen, the product of pancreatic cancer. Her admission to the hospital last night likely signals the arrival of her final days. She is not being treated for anything, but is simply being "kept comfortable" with morphine.

In the Mormon Church, we believe firmly in an afterlife, where we continue to progress and live with Heavenly Father, Jesus, and those we knew on Earth. This conviction is comforting to those of us who've lost someone we love, but it doesn't necessarily stop us from wishing away death, nor does it take away all of the sorrow when we witness a vibrant soul slipping away seemingly prematurely.

I tell you this to say that this cancer-fighting work is important. When I ride my bike on Sunday, I will be riding for Holly, who may not last the summer. For my brother, who died of melanoma three years ago. For my grandfather, who died of lymphoma when I was in college. For my friend Vivian, who was diagnosed with lung cancer at the same time Holly was diagnosed but thankfully is recovering and will, we hope, live several years longer. For my former coworkers Monique and Annette, who both encountered breast cancer--Annette's returning a year later. For my young friend Emma, whom I met in the Galapagos Islands, who had lukemia a few years ago and is now in blessed remission thanks to a bone marrow transplant from her brave younger brother Charlie. Cancer affects us all.

Everything we can do to combat this disease must be done. Every dollar I raise and give is personal. Every donation helps a life. Every mile I ride this weekend will be for them.

Here's to a strong finish in Philly on Sunday, and to Living Strong every day!!

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