Sometimes love is pitching a tent in downtown Northampton, on the old courthouse lawn, in the middle of winter, during a predicted snowstorm. And that’s exactly how my love will look next Wednesday, when I camp in memory of my mom and in solidarity with cancer warriors everywhere. For the eighth year, I’ll be one of Monte’s intrepid campers during the Cancer Connection Camp-Out, facing the cold rain and snow in a crazy act of service for the greater good.
When my mom died, I vowed to honor her legacy by living a beautiful life. Part of that promise has meant finding purpose in her cancer journey by helping others who are navigating this life-altering terrain. In a small way I have been able to weave grace from grief by raising money and awareness for Cancer Connection, an incredibly special healing sanctuary for people living with cancer.
Offering support groups, classes, workshops, programs, integrative therapies, and outdoor adventures, Cancer Connection is a haven of support, and Everything is offered entirely for Free! Reiki, reflexology, massage, craniosacral therapy, facials, clay class, knitting, writing workshops, acting and improv, gardening, rowing, kayaking, arts and crafts - all free! There is zero cost because the kind and amazingly smart people at Cancer Connection know that cancer warriors do not need to worry about paying for valuable services when they need it most.
Grassroots fundraising like the Camp-Out makes this possible. Your generosity makes this possible. So, I’ll camp, you contribute: these simple acts are love made real, messages of healing to our family and friends living with cancer, and triumphs to those we have lost.
Thank you for your generous donation and uplifting people through your monetary blessing.
I am Gratefully Yours ~
*If you would like to honor someone who died from cancer, or someone who is currently living with cancer, or someone who kicked cancer’s ass, please mention their name in the notes and I will add them to my garland of stars.
*If you want to learn more about Cancer Connection's free programs and services, visit their website: www.cancer-connection.org.
Cancer Connection Camp Out
February 26-27th, on the Old Courthouse Lawn, in Downtown Northampton: 93.9 The River’s Monte Belmonte will camp out in the cold one last time to raise funds for Cancer Connection’s free, non-medical services for people facing cancer, and their families and caregivers here in western Mass.
“I hate camping. Especially in winter. And I really hate cancer. But when dreaming up this year’s Camp Out I thought maybe we should add something else I strongly dislike: The Grateful Dead. The Deadheads around me keep trying to convince me otherwise, so here’s their chance. I’ll keep listening to the Dead as long as the money continues to come in. That way Deadheads will have to pony up to make their case. All the while keeping the money flowing for Cancer Connection and subjecting me to the endless noodling and incredibly long songs of the Grateful Dead.” --Monte
“During a time when I really wanted support, caring, comfort and understanding, the people at the cancer support group listened to my story, related to my experience, acknowledged my thoughts, accepted the tragedies, and heard me. I was no longer alone.” -- Howard Hanna, Cancer Connection participant.
Since 2006, the Cancer Connection Camp Out has raised over $623,000 for Cancer Connection’s free services. That's 14 years of camping out since Cancer Connection's doors opened 20 years ago.
How can YOU help? DONATE to a camper or team on this site. There is a service fee that you can opt to pay ornot.
Make a challenge. It's not too late! Join many local businesses including Camp Out Champion Greenfield Savings Bank. Email us by Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 4 PM.
Listen to 93.9 The River on the radio or via their website, wrsi.com starting at 6AM, Wednesday, February 26th until at least 10AM the following morning Thursday February 27th.
Stop by and enjoy the spectacle and the entertainment! Writing a check? Bringing your piggybank? Make your gift at the Camp Out!
Or mail your check to Cancer Connection, 41 Locust Street, Northampton, MA 01060.
Together, let's support Monte as he works tirelessly to make it fun for people to give. Please make a donation to support this critical resource. Last chance to donate to the camp out.
Help us thank 93.9 The River FOR HOSTING the Campout!
Cancer Connection offers programs and support free of charge in a comforting and welcoming environment for adults and children living with a cancer diagnosis, their families, and their caregivers. The funds raised from Monte's Bed In for Cancer Connection provide 1-to-1 guidance, integrative therapies, support groups, and many physical and creative workshops that help people take care of themselves at a very trying time of life. We focus on coping strategies, relieving stress, building physical and emotional strength, and feeding the spirit. Visit our website or call our office at 413-586-1642 for more information.