I met Sally fundraising for Cancer Connection years ago, and we became fast friends. And then we were promoted to co-chairing a fundraising event (The Harvest Dinner and Silent Auction) together. We always phone banked for Monte's Camp Out together (along with Nanci Newton and Chantal DuPuis) because we had to take the earliest shift so I could get to work afterwards and I didn't want to do it with anyone I didn't truly love (too early to deal with others!). We laughed and answered phones and sometimes tried to learn how to juggle or sewed stars. It only seems right to raise money for Cancer Connection now in Sally's memory, as we should be working on this together.
I feel about camping like Monte does... and I feel NO love for any type of camping in cold weather. So, make no mistake... I am not camping. I guess I'm a virtual camper, but really, I just want to raise money for Cancer Connection and honor Sally, a dear friend who I miss every single day
From Cancer Connection:
Cancer Connection offers a haven where people with cancer, their loved ones and caregivers can learn to cope with the physical and emotional turmoil that is part of a cancer diagnosis and explore ways to enhance their strength, their hope and their care through support groups, integrative therapies, creative activities, and education. All services are offered free of charge. Cancer Connection has figured out how to provide support safely using remote means during the pandemic. They can't have in-person services for people at a high risk for Covid.
I hope you'll make a donation by March 2nd at 9 AM. Help me meet my goal of $1,000.
Your gift will go directly to Cancer Connection to support their important work.
If you want to learn more about Cancer Connection's free programs and services, visit their website: www.cancer-connection.org.
You are not alone. They are not alone because of you.
Thank you very much!
Monte's Bed In for Cancer Connection
On Wednesday, March 2nd, and into the morning of the 3rd, WRSI FM 93.9 The River’s Monte Belmonte will broadcast all day from his bed - but not just any bed. Monte will be in a bed overlooking the courtyard at the Hotel Northampton - almost like being in a fishbowl. He's bedding-in to raise funds for Cancer Connection’s free, non-medical services for people facing cancer, and their families and caregivers. Here in Western Mass.
“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 and Board member.
Since 2006, the Cancer Connection Camp Out has raised over $750,000 for free services for those facing cancer. That's 16 years of camping out (and bedding in) since Cancer Connection's doors opened 22 years ago.
Monte, committed to the cause as ever, but definitely NOT committed to camping outside, or causing a ruckus during this pandemic, hopes people who care about supporting people with cancer will join him from THEIR beds (not his) or tents in their own yards.
WANT TO JOIN HIM?
You can register to bed-in or camp out in your yard HERE.
DONATE to a camper or team on this site. [There is a service fee that you can opt to pay or not.]
Challenges to Monte's listeners are already being made by Greenfield Savings Bank (GSB) and others are coming soon.
Listen to 93.9 The River on the radio, via their website, wrsi.com, or on Facebook, @939theriver, starting at 6AM, Wednesday, March 2nd until 6 PM and the next morning from 6 AM until at least 10AM. Check WRSI's Facebook page and live stream to see Monte and follow any shenanigans he or other campers will be involved in.
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 at this challenging time.
Help us thank 93.9 The River for their support.
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.