Help Cindy raise money

In March 2025, I heard the most terrifying news of my life...I had breast cancer. The months that followed moved simultaneously fast and slow as my husband, Mike, and I navigated all the chaos that follows a cancer diagnosis. 

Last year was a medical marathon of surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation treatment. I made a promise to myself at the very start of my cancer journey that I would continue to participate in this life by focusing on getting out of bed, getting dressed and getting going. Each time a surgery, chemo infusion, or side effect knocked me on my butt, I did my best to concentrate on getting back on my feet. And this repetitive cycle of getting knocked down and then focusing on getting back up showed me that I can start over as many times as I need to while I still have air in my lungs.

I finished my last radiation treatment in mid-September. After the conclusion of treatment, I started to recognize the ways in which my body was different after my cancer battle. I have decided to embrace this as a new beginning and an opportunity to find new footing. I have been a runner all of my life, but I have had many false starts to training in the past 7 years. Cancer taught me that you can always start over, build back, and move forward. I started running just two minutes at a time back in October 2025 and I am working towards a time goal for completing the Pittsburgh 5k, my act of defiance against cancer. 

I realize how fortunate I am. I am filled with so much gratitude to have survived and to have this opportunity to now thrive. I want to channel my gratitude towards supporting the incredible work being done at Hillman Cancer Center, my treatment team. Every day, the people at Hillman Cancer Center see people who are hearing the most terrifying news of their lives and they respond with the highest level of competence and compassion. My fundraising will go to Rush to Crush Cancer, supporting the work done by Hillman Cancer Center. https://www.rushtocrushcancer.org/ 

This race will take place on May 2, 2026. https://www.thepittsburghmarathon.com/races/5k

Deadline for race donations: May 15, 2026.

Thank you for reading my story and for your donation towards the life-saving care given by Hillman Cancer Center. Let's crush cancer together and embrace each day as a gift.

February 2026 Update: Thank you to everyone who has donated to raise money for Rush to Crush Cancer (Hillman Cancer Center). I am overwhelmed with gratitude for all the wonderful people in my life! Training is going very well. I have increased my goal, motivated by the excitement and energy of your generosity. Thank you!