Help Stephanie raise money

MY WHY

My why journey started with running Falmouth in memory of my uncle. To keep people talking about him to keep his memory alive! That was about 10 years ago, and every year since that first run I've honored someone important to me. Little did I know my "why" would be me! 

2023 July 3rd is my diagnosis date. I found my tumor on my 40th birthday while I was away on vacation. Everything from that moment on seemed to hurry up and wait. It was one of the most craziest moments of my life! Then July 3rd came and the phone call did too. Now I'd be lying to say I didn't read the report before the call came. I was ready for the call and braced myself for life as a cancer patient. 

I ran my 7th Falmouth road race shortly after receiving my first round of chemo, AC aka Red Devil. I was going into the second round that week. As my treatment went on I found myself getting tired faster, so running slowed and I worked less hours. Bills and life kept coming and I wasn't sure how I'd afford it. Along with my financial counselor from Dana Farber and some research and asking around I applied to Marisa's Mission for assistance. I was blessed to be given a gift that let me worry less about one bill and focus on recovery as I went into surgery. 

My why is to pay it forward, for the next patient and their family. I know how hard cancer is, not just physically but emotionally and financially. I want to be there for the next person so they know they are not alone! 

This run is still in memory of my Uncle of course, but this year I it will also be in memory of 3 amazing women! 

Auntie Karen, my mom's oldest sister and second mom to me. She was so part of my core memories. Sadly on Sept 21st she went home to be with her parents and brother. I feel shorted that she should be here, but my young wise nephew (her grandson) said to me "Stephie she's better off she's not suffering and that gives me comfort!" 

Nancy, big sister to one of my very dear friends. Nanc was originally diagnosed in 2020 and did the brave fight on her own due to covid! When I was diagnosed she wasn't sure she was ready to be a resource to me. As my journey continued she heard the words no one wants to, "your cancer is back!" She became my breastie and biggest cheerleader. We shared a bond unless you have cancer or had would understand. Sadly on Sept 24th she took her last breath fighting like hell! Nanc showed me how to fight and live......

Arianna, my friends sweet beautiful daughter. Arianna was a beautiful teenager just on the verge of beginning her life. In her sophomore year of high school she was diagnosed with cancer. I thought I've known this child since she was a baby and how unfair the universe was to make her sick. I know her mom and I didn't want to bother each other checking in and would go through our friend Theresa. It broke my heart when they got the news it was terminal. She lived the rest of it with passion as only a teenager could. She went to prom and played the trumpet at a memorial. Sadly on June 11th she passed in her sleep! Seeing sunflowers (her favorite) reminds me how big and bold her short life was..... and to live mine the same! 

My why will always be to pay it forward until there is a cure.... Help me hit my fundraising goal and donate now!