Relay for Life

On Friday night, I brought 11 of my 13 softball players to participate in Relay for Life (the other two had prior commitments).  This the the second year that my team has gone, but it had a new meaning this year for me.  My Dad had a tumor removed from the outside of his stomach about two weeks ago.  When we got the results back from his biopsy, it was malignant.  It came back as a very rare form of stomach cancer called GIST (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor).  The good news is that it had not spread to any other organs and they were able to make a clean cut to remove it.  We are unsure of his treatment or if there will be any at this time.  He will meet with his doctor again at the beginning of June to make a plan.  Although I have been affected by cancer before, this has been very difficult.  I am keeping my spirits up, as is my Dad, but it makes me appreciate every day so much more.

We also had another individual in mind as we were participating in the event this year.  Recently, a teacher at our school found out that her cancer had returned.  Most of my team knows this teacher and wanted to support her in her upcoming journey.

As a team, we organized a yard sale and dance to help raise money for the American Cancer Society.  One of my players also made pink bows to sell at school this past Friday.  My softball players understood the importance of participating in the event and they now understand how cancer can affect families and individuals.  I find that most of them leave the event with a new respect for life and let the individuals they love, know that they love them.

As a team, we raised over $500.00 and walked over 125 miles that night.  We didn't get much sleep, but we bonded as a team, had great conversations, and created a memory that means a lot to everyone.  I look forward to participating in the event next year with some returning players and sharing our experience with new team members.