Help Melissa raise money

Almost 3 years ago this summer my family lost one of the best guys we ever knew...my dad. About 20 years prior to this, my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. With the help of a clinical trial, which was likely available due to the research and advocacy of the American Cancer Society, my father lived a fun-filled, glorious life despite his diagnosis. 

Unfortunately, in May of 2020 we learned that the cancer had spread and he was only given about one month to live. We were lucky enough to get five amazing weeks with him at his home. During that time my father remained positive and optimistic and, of course, kept his sense of humor right up until the end (no surprise for those of you who knew him). 

Although the cancer may have ultimately won, it never brought him down. He told us he lived the absolute best life he could imagine and had no regrets, what more could any of us ask for? My family and I will be forever grateful for the extra 20 years we had with him thanks to his amazing medical team and the trial. After all, he was able to watch his kids and grandchildren grow up, enjoy many family vacations, travel the world with my mom and their friends, and create lasting memories for all that knew him with his wit, love, and positivity. 

Among all of these memories, every year he would visit one of his favorite places on earth, Cape Cod. Him and my mom would go with friends and family and he would just light up while there. He loved everything about the Cape; the ocean, the seafood, the people, and the lifestyle. 

That brings me to my fundraiser for the American Cancer Society and the Falmouth Road Race. I cannot think of a better way to honor my father’s memory than to raise money for cancer research and culminate the experience with a run along the ocean in Cape Code. So, my goal is to raise $2,000…one hundred dollars for every year we got to spend with my father after his original diagnosis.

We have all known too many people who have battled cancer and it is important we remain relentless for cures! No more loved ones should be lost due to cancer, nor should anymore memories be cut short as a result of it.

I think of my father all the time and miss him more than I could ever express, but I have no doubt he will be with me the entire course (and definitely having a celebratory beer with me after I finish)!

If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to help me reach my goal, I would be forever grateful. Any amount helps!