Dear Friends and Family,

 

Fifteen is a significant number in my mind this year. My Mom, Ann Blassberg, passed away 15 years ago and I was 15 years old when she was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in her liver. She fought an incredible tough fight for 9 years but unfortunately lost the battle at the young age of 52.  It is why at this time, I would like to raise money for cancer patients and their families. Because as we all know, cancer is a terrible disease that affects so many people.

 

My mother was a giver. She put her family ahead of her own needs, spent many hours volunteering with and on behalf of children, and was always available to friends.  In her honor and memory, on September 13, 2009, I am running a half marathon (13.1 miles). With your help, I would also like to raise money for two organizations who are involved in helping cancer patients and their families. The two organizations are Hospice and the Make a Wish Foundation.  These organizations help make the time that cancer patients spend with their families a little easier and help bring some joy to children diagnosed with cancer. 

 

Hospice was a wonderful organization for my family. For the last 8 weeks of my Mom’s life, hospice became involved in her care. Their philosophy is one that allowed my Mom to be comfortable, remain in our own home surrounded by family, and embrace her last days with dignity and as pain free as possible. 

 

Children always had a special place in my Mom’s heart. She enjoyed being around them at work and always tried to help through volunteering. This is why I also selected the Make a Wish Foundation. They provide children with an opportunity to experience a dream. For a moment, children can have joy in their lives and just enjoy being a kid.

 

My mom never had a break from her chemotherapy treatments which occurred every 3 weeks. However, month after month, year after year, regardless of how she was feeling, she pushed herself to make the most out of each day.  She was always ready to celebrate holidays, special events with family and friends, or go out to have a good time. She always enjoyed life the best she could.  I know her strength will be with me as I run my half marathon.

 

I would appreciate your support by thinking of me on September 13^th and donating to one or both of these charities. Together through Hospice, we can help people with cancer maintain their dignity and manage their pain. The Make a Wish Foundation can fulfill a dream for a child away from doctors and give them a special experience. Together we can provide opportunities for families to make every moment count. As I always say, I had quality not quantity with my Mom. Please help support me and other families.