Twenty five years of Hope.

Twenty-five years ago one man decided to take one step toward eliminating cancer. One step to launch millions and one dollar to lead to billions. In 1985 Gordy Klatt, a Tacoma, Washington surgeon wanted to increase the income of his local American Cancer Society's office. As an avid marathon runner, Dr. Klatt decided to take pledges for his 24-hour walk around the local university's track. One day, one night, and 83 miles later Dr. Klatt raised over $27,000 and the idea for Relay for Life was born.

I had the privilege of attending the Relay for Life Summit this weekend in Los Angeles. It was truly a weekend I will never forget. Being in the same room with over 800 people who hate cancer as passionately as I do, who each have their own, personal reason to Relay, and who are working toward raising money to eliminate cancer was motivational. Through the dynamic speakers, workshops, and sessions I learned so much about the American Cancer Society. What they do and what they have accomplished. It is truly remarkable how this organization has pioneered so many studies, lead to so many laws being changed or created, and given millions across the globe hope.

I can't wait to be more involved this upcoming year as Team Development Chair for our own Relay for Life. I can't wait to meet more people within my own community and to raise money to work toward finding and end to cancer. I know this can happen in my lifetime. I'm confident that one day I will tell my grandchildren about a horrible disease that people used to get called cancer. This is my hope and this is my reason to Relay.

So join me in celebrating 25 years of Hope. Happy Birthday Relay for Life! I can't wait to see what you can accomplish in the next twenty five years!