LIVESTRONG in the Communities

Sometimes when you take a chance and step out of your norm, you can truly have life-changing experiences. Several years ago I went to Virginia Beach to attend an event hosted by long-time LIVESTRONG Leader and supporter Cindy Graf. I met two incredible individuals Jerry and Amy Frostick who ran an event in town called The Shamrock Marathon. Cindy invited the two to Austin for the Ride for the Roses event later that October. After hearing about our efforts, they invited me to come to the Shamrock Marathon that next March and see what it was all about. I was asked to be on the starter’s podium and help get the runners started on their runs. My son Grayson and I went to the event, armed with a backpack of wristbands, but with no real idea what to expect.

The LIVESTRONG Leader program is a unique way to volunteer and represent both LIVESTRONG and cancer survivors in your area. Leaders are backed by a full-time staff member, as well as a Senior Leader in your area for guidance along the way. Senior Leaders are long-time volunteers that can assist you in bringing your ideas to life that make an impact in your community.

I am always blown away by our phenomenal Team LIVESTRONG participants. This weekend’s team for the Austin Marathon was no exception. A crew of 31 team members raised $22,000 to support LIVESTRONG‘s programs and services. We are so grateful for all their efforts.

I’m continually amazed by the impact we have in the lives of people affected by cancer. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is one of the best examples of how we directly change the lives of cancer survivors. I recognize we have talked about this before, but the impact is amazing and cannot be understated. As of this year, this program has served more than 34,500 survivors recovering from the damage cancer has done to their body and spirit. This program is available in 461 locations all over the United States – from California to New York and Iowa to Florida.

I want there to be a future where no parent has to tell their young child, “I have cancer.”