Thank you for visiting my fundraising page!
I am hoping that this email travels to people that know why I am doing this and those that don't. SO, I would like to tell you a little bit about Kathy (KDB) and what we are doing, and why I am asking for your support!!!
Last August my best friend, Kathy died from Melanoma. Kathy was the best friend a person could have...someone that would laugh over the silliest of things, cry over sappy commericals, supported you when you needed a shoulder, and puch you if you needed it!!!!! I remember sitting across the room from her in awe, because despite the crummy hand she was dealt, she never complained. Over the course of the year that she battled cancer, I know of only one time that Kat cried! I can't say that...but, SHE held me when I cried!!! Says alot about the kind of person she was, doesn't it?!
Well, through Kathy's strength and dignity fighitng this horrible disease...a group of us organized the 1st Annual KDB Melanoma walk that was held last October. We raised over $27,000 that went to the Melanoma Research Foundation.
This year we are hoping to raise awareness and money for Melanoma Research through our 2nd Annual KDB Melanoma Walk. The walk will be held on October 13, 2007 at Kensington Metropark.
Please take a moment to read a little bit about Kathy. Help me in my efforts to find a cure for this disease!!!
Kathy was initially diagnosed with breast cancer in July of 2005. She underwent chemotherapy from August until December. Kathy never missed a beat, taking no time off of work, and insisting on going to her nephew’s football games even after having chemotherapy appointments. In December 2005, it was decided that a mastectomy would have to be performed as soon as possible. Prior to surgery, Kathy’s surgeon removed a suspicious lymph node from her neck. The lymph node biopsy identified Melanoma. Upon removal of her breast, the tumor that had been previously diagnosed as breast cancer was now identified as Melanoma. Everything had been turned upside down, but Kathy didn’t waver. She just wanted to know what was next.
Kathy still took everything in stride. After further tests, Kathy received a call that the cancer had metastasized. It was now in her brain. She still marched on, working and walking everyday with Mandy, her pride and joy. Kathy underwent full brain radiation in the early morning so that she could be to work at a reasonable time. Following the radiation treatments, Kathy began treatment for the Melanoma at UofM. After her first round of treatment, it was decided to aggressively treat the tumors in her brain.
Kathy continued to fight through the spring and summer of 2006. Following a couple of serious seizures, Kathy began to loose the ability to use her right side. Doctors told her that it was time to consider Hospice. Not ready for defeat, Kathy’s doctor told her that if she could walk back into his clinic, he would start treating her again. Kathy opted to try rehabilitation, and she worked hard to regain her strength and mobility. Unfortunately, the Melanoma had spread throughout her body. Despite her will and her drive, Kathy lost her battle the evening of August 23, 2006 surrounded by family, friends, and her dog, Mandy.
Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.
Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!
Thank you,
Tricia A. Edwards