This race is a fundraising benefit for Cancer Connection in Northampton, MA, which offers free services to people and their caregivers facing cancer in Western Mass.

Rachel is a young woman dealing with cancer who uses the aqua aerobics class at Cancer Connection. She said it's "a non-treatment way to also treat yourself. In that class I don't feel like a patient. And last fall, I was completely bald. I had no hair whatsoever. At the beginning of the class, I had eyebrows. Those were gone by the end of the class. It doesn't feel like treatment, but at the same time, it's still beneficial. I feel like that's what sets that class apart. It's also a very safe space. You're like, we all have the same thing in common. We don't even need to talk about it. We're in this world together and we're dealing with the same sort of crap, and it makes you feel comfortable."

With every $100 you raise, you've sustained another exercise class, support group or massage.  Now through Mother's Day, you can help Rachel and make sure Cancer Connection is there for your family, friends and community when needed.

Cancer Connection emphasizes vitality and good times rather than isolation and illness. For more information about Cancer Connection, please call (413) 586-1642 or visit the website: www.cancer-connection.org and Facebook page: @cancerconnection413.

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.