On Sunday, September 26, 2010, my teammates and I will come together for our fourth consecutive year for the 12th Annual Walk to Cure Cancer. The five mile walk-a-thon raises money to support cancer research at UMass Memorial Cancer Center at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Now, in its 12th year, over 50,000 walkers have joined the Walk to Cure Cancer and raised over $6 million benefiting cancer research. We will walk in honor of those we know who have battled cancer, and to help support research to help others in their fight. For more information visit www.walktocurecancer.org. 

My personal story:  As most of you know, my Mom was diagnosed with cancer in 2007 - shortly before my Hope Walkers team and I signed up for the 9th Annual Walk. We worked hard to raise money, as this cause was especially close to us all, and increasingly so for me. We planned to walk together and hoped my Mom would join us for the last mile to take part in this special event. Unfortunately, my Mom lost her hard-fought, courageous battle in October 2007. For the past two years, I walked in her honor and memory, knowing that she is with me every step. I will do the same this year, again, with her watching over us.  I also walk for (and with!) one of my very close friends whose strength, courage and determination helped her conquer her battle with cancer and who remains cancer free since March 2006. She is now even a new Mom! I am so proud of her and thankful for her. I walk, too, for my cherished friend who lost her battle with cancer many years ago when she was taken from us far too early and far too young, and I know that she will be cracking jokes at me from her place in heaven while I walk again this year. I walk for my grandparents who also suffered at the hands of this disease, and for the many others who have been touched by cancer. My immense dedication to the cause is yet again renewed as, in late 2009, I was diagnosed with Melanoma. I was forthunate enough to have discovered it relatively early, and, since surgery, have remained symptom free.

Of note, our team - the Hope Walkers - was honored at this year's Kickoff Breakfast as one of last year's Top Fundraising Teams. We are truly honored and very thankful for your support! We couldn't have done it without every person who donated.

Thank you in advance if you are able to make a donation - no matter the size!  Every dollar helps and is very much appreciated.

Together we can make a difference!

With much love and gratitude,

Megan Fitton and the Hope Walkers crew