I am requesting your prayers and support once more in order to assist families whose children are suffering from cancer by providing them with financial support.
I've decided to ride (my bicycle) in the Tour Da Yoop, Eh (https://www.tourdayoopeh.com/), 10-day, 1,200-mile bicycle ride around the outskirts of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula again this year. I'm determined to ride again to raise awareness of childhood cancer and to assist families who are financially impacted by this disease.
I'm reminded of what Mick Vujicic said "The greatest rewards come when you give of yourself. It's about bettering the lives of others, being part of something bigger than yourself, and making a positive difference. But by doing something that is bigger than ourselves we touch the lives of people in amazing ways."
A program that improves the lives of others and accomplishes something greater than oneself is the Lions Kids with Cancer program. I'm incredibly delighted to have contributed to this endeavor for the past two years, as it has touched the lives of so many people! The work that has to be done for this important cause is far more than merely raising money. Publicizing the cause is also necessary to let people know and understand what it is and how big of an issue it is for many families.
The Lions Club Kids with Cancer Program is a fantastic and distinctive cause that "directly aids" families with the out-of-pocket costs related to cancer treatment. Thanks to the 2022 & 2023 Tour Da Yoop, Eh, Connie and I were so grateful and fortunate to have had the distinct opportunity to meet and interact with many families who had been affected by childhood cancer, and I must say that these experiences were quite emotional and heartfelt. I'm always reminded of an encounter I had with a young girl (Serenity Hope) last year. Initially, Serenity was very shy and didn’t really want to talk to me… but I was able to break down that barrier and Connie and I had a lovely time with Serenity. Later while I was getting my post ride nutrition (eating), her mother approached me and said the Serenity wanted a photo with her "new friend" before she left ... This brought tears to my eyes. When I ride, I think about this encounter often. As many of you know … I ride (my bike) with a little wooden cross from Jerusalem attached to my handlebars, together with a necklace and ring belonging to my late father. Every single ride, I offer up a prayer for my father along with other intentions, one of which is always for the families and children dealing with childhood cancer.
I am writing to you today to ask for your support for Lions Childhood Cancer Program once again this year. This program provides grants to families to minimize the financial hardship that is directly attributable to their child’s diagnosis. This includes needs for travel to and from medical appointments, housing assistance while at a distant medical appointment, medical and household bills. These families are dealing with a sick child as well as a variety of financial challenges, some of which are severe. Many parents are forced to take a long leave of absence or leave their jobs in order to be with their child. Medical treatments can be lengthy, leaving children with physical, emotional, and sensory issues. Your contributions will help the Lions Childhood Cancer Program continue their important work. Last year's Tour Da Yoop riders were able to generate more than $113,350 for the families, thanks to many of you!
Please consider making a TAX-FREE donation to the Lions Childhood Cancer Program once more. We can/will make a difference in the lives of those in need if we work together. Your contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference in the lives of the families.
I've set a fundraising goal of $8,000, which I'm confident I can achieve with your help. To learn more about the cause and to make a secure, tax-deductible donation to my Lions Children Cancer Program fundraising effort, please visit https://www.PledgeReg.com/4973/zacksmith.
If you feel uncomfortable donating online, you can send me a check and I will process the transaction on your behalf. Please mail your check to me at 1839 Lindsey Magnolia Court, Navarre, FL 32566.
NO PART of your donation will be used to pay for my transportation to and from Upper Michigan or for any other associated costs of the ride, 100% of your donations go directly to the families!
Please keep me (and the other cyclists) in your thoughts and prayers during the Tour Da Yoop, as well as these families and their children. I’m sincerely grateful for your donation(s) and prayers.
Note: I have attached a couple of pictures from the 2023 Tour Da Yoop, Eh.
Note: Among the numerous families that Connie and I had the opportunity to engage with is the one pictured in my profile. The tale of this family is incredible. They received some incredible news a few months back ... They were cancer free!
Thank you for your time and consideration. Your support means the world to me and the cause I am riding for.
Zack