The next 10 years will be an era of less chemo and more cures, and I’m proud to be helping to bring the latest advancements in care to Maine by participating in Champion the Cure Challenge. The Challenge is northern and eastern Maine’s largest fundraising event, and all the money raised stays in our communities to support patient care and research at the Lafayette Family Cancer Institute and Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center.

Here's how your contribution helps:

• $25 pays for food insecurity bag or one gas card for one patient.
• $75 pays for a gas card for one patient for a Boston Appointment or three food insecurity bags.
• $125 pays for food insecurity bag or gas cards for five patients.
• $250 pays for two nights lodging for a patient staying local or one night in Boston.

Cancer touches virtually every individual and family in Maine. This year, it rocked mine from its very foundation when we were told that my mother had lung cancer and we had 6 months left with her. She was gone in one month. She was so brave and her thoughts were only for those she was leaving behind. Our hearts hurt each and every day with this loss. My best friend Bobbi, thus the name of my Team, is a survivor. She is the strongest, most resilient woman I have ever known. She was diagnosed with the worst breast cancer you can possibly have and the odds were not in her favor. She beat the odds, which should come as no surprise as to those who know her.  

I do believe....i have to believe there’s a brighter future ahead for those affected by cancer. By participating in The Challenge, I’m helping to make this future a reality, and I invite others to join me in working to defeat cancer.