Hi All

Most of you know I've been busy (aren't we all) so as usual I am late with my Ride for Roswell fundraising request. The Ride this year is June 22. 

As I write this - I am admittedly very introspective. It's my mom's birthday today. As you know, cancer related complications took her life 17 years ago.  Tomorrow is our 20th wedding anniversary. On that day 20 years ago, Adam’s dad Paul Benigni stood with us as Adam’s best man. He was nine months into his cancer battle and cancer was winning. We lost him just two months later on August 4th.

Looking back at our wedding photos and wedding video, seeing their smiling faces and hearing their voices, is bittersweet. It’s a joy to see and hear them, yet a reminder of how much we miss them and how we all missed out on sharing the last 20 years together.

This year will be our 20th Ride for Roswell.  We started in 2005 to do something positive to heal from the loss of Paul. We didn’t expect to learn how important getting funds into the hands of those that can make a difference really is, but now we know. Roswell Park Cancer Institute effectively uses those funds to make significant medical advances in treatments and patient care. Many cancer trials are funded directly by the Ride for Roswell and related grants. 

I have been so fortunate to always have your support in my fundraising efforts and I truly thank you for that. Over the years, I’ve raised approximately $137,000. Last year Roswell honored me with a brick at the hospital for surpassing the $100,000 fundraising mark. I am hoping I can count on your support again this year.  I am hoping to raise $30,000 this year.