Twenty-five years ago I was diagnosed with rectal cancer that resulted in the removal of my rectum and leaving me with a permanent colostomy.
Less than a year ago I was diagnosed with bile duct cancer, had surgery that removed part of my pancreas, my gallbladder, and duodenum. The cancer, however, metastasized to the liver, classified as stage 4.
Scary stuff. But it's not the end of my journey, it's not the end of my story, it's not a death sentence. That's because of Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.
No, my journey continues. As does the journey of thousands of others. This event, this fundraiser, contributes to the life blood of the community.
Ride Day is an emotional event. For me, it's a touchstone that grows in importance every year. Riding is an act of defiance to the disease; the fundraising is an act of love for all those who are surviving, who will survive, and it's a way to honor those who helped along the way and remember those who died of this disease.
Will I be able to count on you?A donation to the Ride for Roswell will help the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in its mission to find ways to prevent, treat, and cure cancer.
Give what you can.