Sunday, May 3,2009   Rain or Shine

"It's not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving"- Mother Teresa

Its that time of year again. We are so proud to be walking as Team Hugs for Healing in the 10th Annual Champions Cancer Walk for Signature Healthcare, Brockton Hospital.

We began walking in 2007 in honor of our mom, Christine Behan. It's been two years since then, and we are happy to say she is healthy and feeling great!  Since her diagnosis, we have come full-circle and have found a way to use this experience to give comfort to those facing this horrific disease.  Together, we have started a business and foundation called Hugs for Healing. We feature comfort and support items for those treating for cancer, their families and their caregivers. The items we offer are similar to those we gave our mom and which helped comfort her during that time.  Visit www.hugsforhealing.com to learn more about our mom, the company, the products, and the foundation.

The philosophy of our HFH Foundation is “Paying it Forward”.  We believe in it.  As a team, we will always walk in honor of our mom. In addition, we feel we should reach out and honor someone treating, or in memory of someone who has lost their battle. This year we are walking in memory of our Uncle Kevin…
 

Kevin's Story

On November 26th, I lost my battle with cancer. Oh, don’t get me wrong, I am still here breathing in and out everyday. I say that I lost my battle because despite every effort available to date, cancer won and took my Kevin away. Kevin Michael O’Rourke died of esophageal cancer on that day, in my arms and surrounded by his children.  It had only been eight weeks since his diagnosis. This year, Hugs for Healing is dedicating their walk for cancer in his memory. They have asked me to write a short  biography to give you a glimpse into his life.  That turned out to be an impossible task.  I can only say that Kevin loved and was deeply loved by all who knew him, especially his children, his grandchildren, and above all, by me.  His leaving has left an unfillable void and so much pain.
 
When cancer takes hold, the battle is fought by the victim, as well as by those who love them.  When cancer wins, it is those who are left behind who suffer the never ending and unimaginable pain of loss.  I wish that I were capable of capturing Kevin's lifetime accomplishments in a paragraph or two.  That is what was asked of me.  It should have been easy.  His were many.  But they were accomplishments that could have been achieved by almost anyone.  It was life...... it was living.  I can only say that to know Kevin was a privilege  --  to love, and be loved by him, was a gift.
 
When you walk for a cure this year, please remember Kevin.  Think of him and those he left behind.  I pray every day that a cure will be found.  I pray every day that no one will have to feel the pain that I carry.   Kevin was only sixty years old when cancer finally took him.  I cry every day ........................
 
                                                                                                                  Paula O'Rourke