I am excited to again be taking part in the Western Mass Mother's Day Half Marathon to raise money for Cancer Connection in memory of my dearly missed mom, Terry Everett.
Team Terry is back for a second year, though a little bit worse for wear — while we all successfully ran it last year, I injured myself training and I've been very slowly working my way back. So, I will be walking the nine-mile route instead of running the half.
My mom was such an incredible woman; so resilient, strong, passionate, and loving. She grew up without so much as a goldfish and yet chose the hard life of a farmer. She climbed Mount Washington three times, got her daughters hooked on her oldies records, and loved to make crafts with her grandkids, who just adored their Grammy. Sometimes when they jump on the trampoline, they raise their arms up to the sky to give Grammy a hug in heaven.
Losing her was the hardest thing I've ever been through, but Cancer Connection of Northampton helped her in so many ways, and thus helped us all. The nonprofit offers free wellness programs, therapies and other activities for those dealing with cancer, and mom would always come away from the massages, reiki sessions and meetings with a feeling of peace.
I am honored to do my little part to help them with their important mission. Thank you for helping too.
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.