An old and dear friend of mine passed away the other day. I had known him for 23 years and it was truly a joy and privilege to have him in my life. Really, in truth, he was a part of our family. He had always been considered another one of my children. At this point, those of you who know me well may have guessed that I am talking about our cat Manza. Donna and I are heartbroken about losing him, but know that he had a wonderful life and we had a wonderful time with him.
If you know me well, you may have also guessed that this note is about the St. Baldrick’s Foundation annual fundraising head-shaving party. I have decided to dedicate my efforts this year to Manza. This may sound like a weird thing to some of you — and I want to make it super clear: I am by no means equating the recent passing of my cat to the experience of a family or child dealing with cancer.
However, Manza’s presence in my life, and the ending of it, has left me reliving some mournful events, specifically the passing of my brother Jack. Jack’s death from cancer and AIDS nearly 20 years ago was the original impetus for this annual fundraising effort of mine, and when we took Manza to the vet to say goodbye, I was left with the intensely familiar feeling of loss as I felt with the loss of my brother. All this to say, I think it is very appropriate for me to give Manza this honor. In fact, I think it’s the least I can do for all the love and joy he gave us.
This disease touches so many of us, and raising money for the most promising childhood cancer research worldwide is a way in which we can all get involved. If you would like to join my effort, simply go to my participant page at:
https://www.stbaldricks.org/participants/mypage/1146359/2024
If that’s not convenient for you, you can send me money in the mail or just hand me some when you see me. If you want a real treat, come to the Walden Firehouse on April 27th, 1 - 5 pm to experience the event live. Anyway, thanks in advance for your support. And as Manza would say . . . Meow ?
A challenge among friends 25 years ago has become the largest volunteer movement to Conquer Kids’ Cancer. This year, I’m joining thousands of others to shave my head to raise money for childhood cancer research!
Did you know, 1 in 5 kids diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. won’t survive? For those who do, more than 96% have severe or life-threatening conditions by the time they are 50.
Each shaved head, every dollar donated, creates a ripple effect of progress for kids with cancer.
Your gift will give kids and their families hope, supporting the best research across the country, through the largest charity funder of childhood cancer research grants, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.
Together, let’s give these kids the lifetime they deserve. Thank you for your support!
