My brother-in-law (our team captain Josh) and one of my closest friends both lost their mothers to cancer within the last year-and-a-half. I'm not a runner by any stretch of the imagination, but when my brother-in-law asked me to run with him, I was glad for the opportunity to get to honor Kathi, Janet, and my many friends whose lives have been affected by cancer -- and hopefully provide some practical support to those who are still dealing with it.
I'll be running wearing a scarf that belonged to a dear sister at church, Jean Niquette. She was an encouragement and a light to me during a dark time in my life, and her husband Ray passed on several of her scarves to me after she went home to Jesus.
I'm really grateful to the Cancer Connection for giving us a way to express our love and extend even a little bit of help towards our many dear friends who are suffering. (And I'm grateful that donations aren't based on how fast we are, because I definitely won't be at the front of the pack!)
WMass Mother's Day Half Marathon
Spend your Mother's Day celebrating mom with a gorgeous country run! 13.1 Miles of farm fields, country roads and a few rolling hills with breath-taking views. The proceeds from this race go to Cancer Connection, a local non-profit organization which offers helpful services to those dealing with cancer as well as their families and caretakers. From various therapies like massage and Reiki to exercise classes of Pilates, aqua-aerobics and rowing, to craft classes as well as support groups...this organization's main goal is to help people live better while fighting a battle so many are dealing with.
Your generosity is what keeps this organization functioning as a top-notch resource for those who need it.
All of the funds stay local and help (literally) your neighbors, and maybe even you some day.
The value of these services is immeasurable from the receiving end of the spectrum...as is the value of your efforts in helping us raise funds.
This is the ultimate 'Pay It Forward' race! Thank you for your participation.
At our center on Locust Street in Northampton, people living with cancer, their families and caregivers can meet one-on-one in a comforting and welcoming environment with staff or volunteers. We also host support groups that offer coping strategies and emotional support. Other services include integrative therapies (Reiki, reflexology, acupuncture, massage and guided imagery), programs and workshops including creative arts and exercise classes that focus on relieving physical and emotional stress and building physical and emotional strength.
Cancer Connection offers programs and support free of charge for men, women and children living with a cancer diagnosis, their families and friends. You are welcome to attend as many programs as you would like, based on space availability. We offer additional classes and workshops in the spring and fall. You can call our center and ask to be added to the mailing list for our next program guide.
Priority for our programs is given to those currently in treatment along with their family and caregivers. All programs, unless noted, are held at Cancer Connection:
41 Locust Street in Northampton, MA.
Many classes can accept new participants, even if the class has already started. Call today to ask about joining!
Visit our website, http://cancer-connection.org/programs, for a listing of current programs or call our office and we can mail you our current program guide.