LLS Man & Woman of the Year Kick Off Celebration

In addressing the room last night at the Man & Woman of the Year kick off celebration, I zeroed in on a few key points.

Yes, I was diagnosed in 2006 with leukemia and that is what drew me to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society via TEAM IN TRAINING, but I was very lucky. I always have been lucky and blessed. I responded very fast to treatment, hit remission quickly, and was back to racing triathlons before I knew it.

I had an amazing support system that enabled me to quickly heal and rebuilt. Namely, a great family who made sure I never sat through a single chemo treatment alone. I also had an outstanding team of nurses and an oncologist that I can’t speak highly enough of. And I also had LLS to thank for funding so much of the research, development, and so many patient advocacy programs.

I admitted that my initial reaction to my nomination was one of slight reluctance. But then a light bulb went off and I realized that I am simply being asked to use my networks to save lives. That’s not an offer that you entertain. That’s a gift that you embrace. It’s another chance for me to control my own destiny and make choices that count.

I also reminded the group that although this is a fundraising competition, the reality is, I have already won. I won when I hit remission. And I continue to win with every dollar that flows through the mission of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.