I Relay For Life In Medford, NJ!

I thought I'd go to bed early.. but alas no...

2011-11-02T00:49:00.003-04:00

instead I got "the call." I've heard it before- but never as urgent as this. A mom-friend. A daughter. She is 19 or 20 at most. A dedicated and busy college student in the prime of her life- and then- here it is. She has a mass in her breast. And she has been dealing with it now for a few months on her own. But a good medical practitioner has said- something is not right. She needs a biopsy. NOW. And so the frenzy of helping- always so glad to at least TRY to help! But of course it's mostly listening. The outpouring. The description is frightening. It's unclear- or brutally clear- all at once. We just do not know, of course. Or do we? Do they? Get her to the best- now- she has no time- MAKE TIME! It brings back so many memories with cutting edge accuracy. What would I do? Get her to the oncology breast surgeon. Now. Just do it. And we will all pray. Remember I am here! I am still here! Hope is here. Love is here. Faith is here. We're all here for you.

Strides Walk in Pennsauken was AWESOME!

2011-10-25T08:41:00.009-04:00

What a great day for a Strides 5-K Walk in Pennsauken this past Sunday! Under clear skies and the good smells of autumn, a huge crowd of thousands gathered to celebrate, remember and fight back against breast cancer at the Cooper River! The staff from the American Cancer Society South Jersey division, the same staff that brings us our Relay For Life in Medford, were all there along with hundreds of volunteers to set up and run this event.

This was my second Strides Walk and this year it seemed like twice the participants, although this event is in its 13th year. It's sister event held the previous weekend in Ocean City, NJ was also a huge success! The Making Strides Walk shares many elements with the Relay For Life. There is a gathering of tents- a survivor tent with special survivor t-shirts, a Cancer Action Network tent to encourage participation in the legislative battles for our cause, a registration tent, special sponsors tents, etc. This year the Strides walk held a dog walk, and many pooches were out for the cause.

The opening ceremony began with an enthusiastic DJ who was a great emcee for the crowd. Women, men and children all bedecked in pink seemed to enjoy just being together in a community that shared a common hurt and goal- to wipe out cancer, especially breast cancer. Participants were rallied by speeches from local and regional ACS leaders including Sheila Williamson and Ida Ayala. Several survivors told their stories. Milestone fundraising achievements were honored including the Trailblazers and Pacesetters Clubs. Local and national sponsors were recognized for their support. The Burlington City High School ROTC Color Guard raised the flag as the National Anthem was beautifully sung by a lovely young woman.

A moment of silence was held for those who had lost their battle to cancer. For myself, this was a time when I reflected on a long list of those gone and those who are currently battling that I carry with me to all my walks. It is also a moment of communion with those around me, many carrying signs in memory of a family member lost. "How many years, sister?" "Where were you treated?" Teams with matching t-shirts all bedecked in pink walked together. A teen who lost a mother or an aunt. As a lucky survivor, I feel only what I can call a transference. A feeling of carrying someone else with me in my heart as I prepare to walk. "I wish your mother was here to walk" I heard a man say to his daughter with a tear in his eye. Yet he gave me a hug. Someone I have been honored to know. Someone I "met" only in cyberspace but shared our innermost thoughts. Someone I have never met but who is a sister.

Slowly, there came a drum beat from the distance, getting closer and closer. Sure enough, the Camden High School Marching Band was there in all their glory and enthusiasm to lead off the Survivor's Walk! The emcee encouraged everyone to "hug a survivor." The survivor's then took the first lap around the track- a sea of pink- and were cheered on by the crowd and the Paul VI Cheerleaders who lined the walkway. The entire crowd then spilled out onto the street and followed the band and off we went around the circle of Cooper River Park! Celebrate!

Then it happened for me. A strange mix of happiness and sadness. Of memories I thought were gone. Doctors. Nurses. Chemo. Radiation. My child. My husband. My church. My work. Casseroles and flowers. Sleepless nights. Physical therapy. Needles. Compassion. Fear. Shame. Love. Laughing at death. Defying. Crying. Faces. So many faces. Anger. Beating up a pillow. Helping my child to understand. Praying to be there to get her through high school. The smell of hospital soap and alcohol. Smelling the roses. Now smelling the leaves. Wigs. Scarves. Removing a turban for the last time. Sunlight. A new day. Funerals. Ashes strewn in the sea. Guilt. Faith. Hope.

I wipe away a tear and take a breath. Because I am able! My knees are cracking half way out but I am able. Keep going. I find great joy in the smiling faces of all the youth participating. I feel thankful to all the volunteers and the ACS staff for bringing our community much more than a fundraiser. A great morning in the park in Pennsauken.

BCC "Painted Pink" Exhibit in Mt. Holly

2011-10-10T16:41:00.003-04:00

Yes! I said Mt. Holly! Who knew? I happened upon a lovely old bank building in Mt. Holly which I found out is a center for Burlington County College. I had read about the "Painted Pink" exhibit but honestly it did not click that this was not at the main campus. Old friend and cancer survivor Debra Eckenhoff is involved in this wonderful venture that is a must see!
Here is the link for more info:
Painted Pink

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer- Pennsauken

2011-10-10T16:36:00.002-04:00

SUNDAY OCT 23 at 8:30 am at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken!
Come join me for a wonderful walk- a "sister" event to our own Relay For Life of Medford. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 2011

Yes, Virginia, there is AWARENESS

2011-10-10T16:15:00.007-04:00

It never ceases to amaze me how much support there is, even when you are thinking you don't need it anymore. October sneaks in on little pink feet... and suddenly everyone is reminding you that something happened. Odd that it's combined with the most macabre month of the year. I just keep the t.v. turned off.

The teacher's union has donated annually to the American Cancer Society through my team. Even in a year of being laid-off, they found my number and a call came in and a check followed. It was amazing to me! So I alternate between wanting to hide under a rock and very genuine thanks. It's always a back and forth thing to me. I so want balance in that- but it's not always there.

This year back at work, I am to do "treat day" next Friday and of course it falls on "pink day." So I am using breast cancer awareness as my theme and hoping that someone will find encouragement to do a screening test or a self-exam they may have put off otherwise. Usually it's sometime in November when someone will then tell me, in a halting, hushed tone, that they finally did go in for the exam. It's important. Then I remember that it was someone else who planted that in my head- and saved my life because I knew to go get help.

I alternately hate and love the pink ribbon commercialism. I usually do not donate to any other cause than ACS because I want to know where my money is going. And so much of the pink "stuff" is just that- the "stuff" of advertising. But then there is the other "stuff." The reminder part. Eat a ribbon-shaped bagel. Wear an embroidered pink ribbon. Or a pink tie. Donate a buck to wear the jeans. Walk in a walk. And don't forget the real reason behind it. Pink ribbons just may be the Santa Claus of cancer awareness, but yes, Virginia, there is awareness. Thanks to everyone who supports!

South Jersey Magazine Feature

2011-09-28T22:32:00.006-04:00

Thanks to Regina Schaffer for her article in the October, 2011 issue of South Jersey Magazine entitled "Power Walking." The article features interviews with three area women, including myself, who walk in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. It was an honor to be included. It's never easy to talk about cancer, I always have mixed feelings! It is always my wish that talking helps someone. I know for myself, I had so many who helped me along the way and so I speak up in order to "pay it forward."

I am signed up to participate in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in Pennsauken on October 23rd. This is the "sister" event to our Relay For Life. These two events share some common elements and I love them both for the reflection time they give me, as well as being able to connect to others and feel a great sense of hope! Please consider walking this year!

American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk (three to five miles), Oct. 23 at Cooper River Park, Pennsauken, (800) 227-2345, MakingStrides.ACSEvents.org

Music Helps Cancer Patients

2011-09-15T12:04:00.003-04:00

Since I am a musician I could not resist posting this link that WebMD sent me about Music and Cancer Patients.

Music Therapy May Ease Anxiety Of Cancer Patients

In honor of 10 years- REPOST: History Of Relay In Medford- Part 1

2011-09-13T09:21:00.000-04:00

I Relay For Life In Medford, NJ!: History Of Relay In Medford- Part 1: I remember the first relay in Medford. Because it all happened right after I was diagnosed and treated. But to know about the relay you have...

Happy Birthday!

2011-07-07T00:58:00.006-04:00

Today is the day I officially turn 55! YAY! Speed limit! HAR! I posted on Facebook a new (temporary) profile picture of a "NOT" Speed Limit 55. WAITAMINUTE!!!

OKAY! No speed limit really speaks to my heart. But no 55???? Maybe not! In fact- 55! I celebrate you! Especially when I distinctly remember cancer at 44. And begging God for 45. And thanking God so many time since for milestones- mostly revolving around my daughter. 8th grade Graduation. Proms! Marching band shows! Concerts! Recitals! College auditions and acceptance! Recitals! Honors! Scholarships! So many honors for my hard-working child. So many triumphs- albiet no awards- for my hard-working man! Helping my mom- a privilege everyday.

Many thoughts racing right now and little time to organize-- suffice to say for now- I AM BLESSED! OVER AND OVER! Thanks be to God for every moment- especially those since 2001 at age 44 when it could have been the END.

Keep the donations going!

2011-06-18T17:07:00.002-04:00

Relay For Life of Medford will continue to accept donations for the 2011 Relay season through the end of August. Please send donations through the website or via mail. Please be sure that donations are marked with the appropriate team member, team name, and Relay For Life of Medford so that the correct person or team is credited.

Relay For Life of Medford
c/o Marissa Grossman
American Cancer Society
South Jersey Division
1851 Old Cuthbert Rd.
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034

(include team member name, team name, captain info etc)

The Relay For Life of Medford also plans to hold another collection time for in-person donations. To be announced.

H O P E looms large at Relay For Life, 2011

2011-06-18T17:03:00.002-04:00

Thank you for participating in Relay For Life of Medford!!
You've helped raise more than $241,000 towards a world with less cancer & more birthdays!!

Today at work...

2011-06-08T21:16:00.006-04:00

I had seen her before. I am new to this job. I have seen her working with the kids everyday for several months now. Always smiling. She runs the before and after school care program. It's a pretty thankless job but you can tell she loves the children and works hard. Always goes the extra mile. Always gives an extra hug. I have trouble telling how old she is, but she talks about having grandchildren.

In the hub bub it does not dawn on me right away. Me! Of all people! I missed it! I missed that her hair was styled in a way to conceal the extreme thinning. I missed the tell tale dark circles under her eyes. Perhaps some make-up. I missed the sometimes audible sigh- so tired. I missed that her skin seemed tan and somewhat spotted around her temples. Her smile and kind eyes made me always focus just on her face. Surely the same old face that has always been there.

Finally it was the pink ribbon pin attached to her lanyard on her ID badge that clicked. Then, I saw her yellow wrist band. A small angel pin on her lapel. Of course. How could I miss all this? Or was my mind once again playing tricks on me? Survival can sometimes come in the form of denial.

I wear my relay survivor pin to work the next morning and find a rare quiet moment to point to my pin and say, "I think we have something in common." "Oh no!" is her reply. She is concerned about me. No! I am fine- I am 10 years. Then the story comes out. She is about a year and a half into the battle of her life. Breast cancer. Lumpectomy. Nodes removed. Chemo. Bone mets. Radiation. Pet scans. Mets again. Lost all her hair. 5 pills in the morning and 5 at night. Side effects. And the declaration that "I'm not going down without a fight because I have my little ones to think about!"

You go girl! I got your back. All I can do for her is buy a luminary and walk some laps for her. Walking for Jacky. Another warrior.

Countdown to Relay 2011!

2011-05-28T07:19:00.004-04:00

Relay For Life of Medford is just around the corner! This weekend I am going to go put up my yardsign! June 1st is the final Team Captain's Special Meeting at TD Bank. Get your t-shirts and campsites here! If you can't go send a buddy.

Here is a FAQ from the relay website:
FAQ:

Where can I turn in money I (or my team) has raised?
1. Bring to the Special Team Captains only Meeting on June 1
2. Bring to Relay
3. Mail to the American Cancer Society office at 1851 Old Cuthbert Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034, Attn: Relay For Life of Medford

Who are checks made payable to? American Cancer Society

What happens if someone writes a check payable to me, instead of to the American Cancer Society? On the back, write "Make payable to American Cancer Society" and then endorse it. Turn it in with your regular funds.

What is the deadline for Cancer Fact Signs, Personalized Track Signs and other Sponsors? June 1

What is the deadline for purchasing/selling Luminarias? 9:00 PM the night of Relay

When do I get to pick my campsite? June 1 at the Special Team Captains only meeting

See you at relay!!

Thoughts On A Relay For Life Meeting

2011-04-15T09:22:00.024-04:00

A DECADE OF RELAY... that is our theme in Medford this year. A DECADE OF RELAY.
Coincidentally, and luckily, I have just celebrated a decade of cancer survivorship.
So this year's theme is all about so many things for me.

Maybe I have gotten lazy, complacent, and forgetful. Maybe I have started to take some things for granted. I don't have to go to every meeting. As I said in my past post- I was sitting around waiting for someone to spoon feed me all the info about this year's event- because afterall I know-it-all! But then I remember all the hard work, and the new people involved, and the "old" people still participating and those that are gone. I get to the meeting and what do I see?

I see people fresh out of "Relay University" trying to show an inspirational media clip about the relay- struggling to get the technology to work- taking way too long to get it going- oh it's probably the same old thing...

I SEE A YOUNG WOMAN WORKING HARD AS A CO-CHAIR, OBVIOUSLY OVERTIRED FROM COUNTLESS HOURS OF VOLUNTEERING, EYES WELLING UP AT THE VIEWING OF THE VIDEO AND MESSAGE ABOUT WHAT $5 CAN DO FOR RELAY. SHE IS SO SPEECHLESS HER CO-CHAIR HAS TO TAKE OVER. I DO NOT KNOW HER CANCER CONNECTION BUT NOW I KNOW I NEED TO FIND OUT...

I hear talk of fundraising incentives. Little baubles the National Relay For Life offers along the way to volunteers. Relay "Stuff" that can be "earned."

I SEE A MOTHER OF A CHILDHOOD CANCER SURVIVOR WHO HAS BEEN WITH RELAY IN MEDFORD SINCE THE BEGINNING AND WHOSE CHILD IS A MIRACLE OF MODERN MEDICINE STILL ACTIVE AND ENCOURAGING OTHERS...

I hear talk of Working For A Cure Day, I look at my watch, how long is this meeting going to take after all? Nothing new here.

I SEE A FRIEND WHO LOST HER MOTHER TO CANCER. I SEE A MAN WHO IS A SURVIVOR AND IS MARRIED TO A SURVIVOR. I SEE SOMEONE I KNOW WHO IS SURVIVING, BUT NOT FEELING WELL. I SEE THE FACES OF CANCER IN OUR COMMUNITY...

Something new- in May- Two Working For A Cure Days, Two Community Yard Sales, that teams may participate in. A Kid's Walk. A Dog Walk. Details being ironed out. No raffles this year, per more stringent state rules, but there will be a Basket Auction of some kind.

I SEE A HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR WHO IS CAPTAINING A TEAM & WONDERING HOW TO GET FRIENDS MORE INVOLVED. I REMEMBER MY OWN DAUGHTER ASKING THIS. I RECALL HER REACTIONS TO MY CANCER AND HER STRUGGLES WITH BEING A "CO-SURVIVOR." I REALIZE HER COLLEGE TEAM WALKS ON SATURDAY FOR RELAY FOR LIFE. I REMEMBER SHE NOW HAS TO BEGIN MAMMOGRAMS AT AGE 25 BECAUSE HER MOTHER IS A SURVIVOR. THAT IS ONLY 4 YEARS AWAY. I BEGAN THEM AT AGE 40. I SEE THIS YOUNG WOMAN. I SEE MY DAUGHTER IN HER...

On site fundraising is being encouraged. What are we planning to do? I am not sure I even have a team- they have all formed their own and my main core of teammates have a conflict with a large church event that weekend. They pledge to raise funds but may not be able to participate. That leaves me and my mom...

I REMEMBER MARIE. SUSAN BISHOP JONES. KATHY MUENDEL. POP POP. AUNT DEAN. UNCLE LOU. MADDY. RENEE. GERRI. AND MORE & MORE WHO ARE GONE. THERE ARE SO MANY NOW I CANNOT REMEMBER THEM ALL. I BRING A LIST TO RELAY. AND SOMETIMES TO CHURCH. I REMEMBER WITH HOPE ALL THE PEOPLE I KNOW WHO LIKE ME ARE SURVIVING CANCER, BUT WHO STILL STRUGGLE WITH THE LASTING AFTER EFFECTS OF TREATMENT THAT ARE ONLY WHISPERED ABOUT. I THINK OF A COUSIN NEWLY DIAGNOSED WHO HAS NO JOB AND NO HEALTH INSURANCE. I THINK ABOUT A FRIEND, DIAGNOSED AT THE SAME TIME AS ME, SAME DIAGNOSIS, SAME TREATMENT & PROGNOSIS WHO IS NOW FACING STAGE 4 METS TO HER LIVER. THERE BUT FOR THE GRACE OF GOD GO I...

Laps at the relay- cardboard box derby- ideas for games- field day games- relay queen contest- tent decorating- all these things being discussed as if they are new- but really they are old hat, aren't they?

OLD HAT. WHEN YOU HAVE HAD CANCER- IT'S GOOD TO BE "OLD HAT."

It's now 8pm and I am picking up a yard sign. I am thinking that this meeting could have taken about half an hour but has dragged on a bit. And yet- when it's done I find I am lingering. I can't quite leave.

IT'S NOT ABOUT THE MEETING. NOT ABOUT THE CONTENT. IT'S THE PEOPLE. IT'S THE AMAZING PEOPLE. IT'S A COMMUNITY. IT'S WHY THE RELAY FOR LIFE IS NOT A ONE-HOUR WALK THROUGH A PARK, BECAUSE CANCER IS NO QUICK WALK THROUGH A PARK. IT'S A LIFELONG JOURNEY- HOWEVER LONG THAT LIFE MAY BE. MAYBE IT'S NOT ABOUT EFFICIENCY OR ADDING NEW THINGS OR ANY OF THAT. MAYBE IT'S ALL ABOUT STAYING THE COURSE. ALL ABOUT HOW CANCER KEEPS EFFECTING NEW PEOPLE. AND KEEPS US 'OLD-HATTERS' HANGING ON. IT'S NOT ABOUT A WALK, IT'S A VIGIL.

I am just one of those little relay flags flapping in the breeze. One survivor. One small voice. But together, here in Medford and beyond, we are a field of flags waving for HOPE.

Kids & Dogs Welcome!

2011-04-05T11:44:00.005-04:00

Yes! Yes! Yes! There WILL be both a Kid's Walk and a Dog Walk as part of the Relay in Medford this year! YAY! Freedom Park is such a great venue and allows for special "events within an event" like this. I think this is what makes the Relay For Life of Medford unique among area relays. It has personality! Details will be available soon about times and how to register for these two fun parts of our relay!

Spoon Feeding? What am I? A Relay BABY??!!

2011-04-04T16:46:00.004-04:00

This year the Relay For Life of Medford celebrates 10 years of fundraising for the American Cancer Society. This is an amazing milestone. If you are like me and have been doing this for awhile- you may also be like me- GETTING LAZY!
Oh sure! You have "done" the relay before. You know the drill! You know all there is about it! OR DO YOU????

Recently some people have asked me some questions for which I did not have the answers. Is there a Kid's Walk this year? Is there a Dog Walk this year? And so forth. I do admit going to the official website- and what did I find? A TON OF INFO under the TEAM CAPTAIN'S link on the site. I found out some answers there. But then I got lazzzzzzzzy again and fired off an email to one of the Committee Chairs asking my questions.

It dawned on me that they are just nice and accommodating enough to answer me-- but on the other hand- why should they? They have worked so hard at putting the info on that webpage AND they have listed a series of informational team captain meetings. So why am I wasting their time and asking them to SPOON FEED ME the info??

I am sending out emails to my team members, trying to get them to sign up and sending them all the info I have. I am sure that the questions will start and I will start to think WHY ARE THEY ASKING ME TO SPOON FEED THEM? Why don't they READ what I put out to them? And so it goes... :)

NEXT TEAM CAPTAIN'S MEETING IS: APRIL 13th 6:30 PM

ALL BABIES WELCOME!
ALL SEASONED RELAYERS WITH EGG ON THEIR FACES- ALSO WELCOME!

ALL QUESTIONS ANSWERED! :)

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer- a Sister Event!

2011-04-04T16:44:00.002-04:00

If you are interested in participating in a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event- there are two great ones in South Jersey:

Making Strides of Ocean City Kickoff Breakfast
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Linwood Country Club, Linwood, NJ 08221

Making Strides of Pennsauken Kickoff Breakfast
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Lucien's Manor, Berlin, NJ 08009

Making Strides of Ocean City WALK
Sunday, October 16, 2011
6th Street & Boardwalk

Making Strides of Pennsauken WALK
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Cooper River Park

A Ten Year T-shirt Evolution

2011-03-01T09:02:00.011-05:00

Nothing could make me happier than seeing my daughter design a t-shirt for the Relay For Life! Recently, she was working on one for her college team. If you look in my armoire you can see not only the evolution of the t-shirt artist, but the evolution of Medford's relay and my ten years of survivorship. That's right! It's been ten years- TODAY! March 7th. The day Dr. Miller removed the cancer and the day the rest of my incredible treatment team worked on me to keep it gone. Ten years I never thought I would have. Ten years since I was praying to see my daughter graduate from high school.

My first "Survivor" shirt. Yes- I remember this shirt. It's a 1X. It is bright yellow and huge letters spelling S U R V I V O R on the back. I remember feeling like a billboard. I hated the word. I knew I would never wear this t- shirt- ANYWHERE! I did not feel like a "survivor" at the time. I was embarrassed in fact. I felt weak. I did not feel strong. I felt vulnerable. I was no survivor! I was barely getting by! I was in total grieving for my life and for my family.

The next year my team made purple relay shirts with a big computer on a surf board for my first real team- Surfin' For A Cure. I had been moderating a breast cancer support site and without realizing it, I had morphed into a "survivor" after all! My friends and family rallied around and took to the track. I was just emerging from chemotherapy and radiation treatments and they had taken their toll, while at the same time curing my cancer. That shirt was a 2X. I still did not wear the first survivor shirt. But I kept it. I looked at it sometimes. I met many friends along the way and lost them. That survivor shirt became a crying towel that dried my tears too many times. My team shirt was different. It represented a mixture of strength and also a way of laughing at cancer, which somehow was my way of coping.

Third year was the circus theme. My team shirts were a neon pink with a fabulous elephant my daughter drew for us! I love that shirt because it's happy! Somehow I felt more like celebrating! I understood how being a survivor was hope to others. How lucky I was to be making it and able to help others in some small way. About this time we started the Kid's Walk and I had fun chairing that committee. More shirts! Now I am getting a team shirt, a relay event shirt, a kid's shirt AND a survivor shirt each year! And some committee shirts, too! And on it goes until today when I must have at least 40 relay shirts circulating around.

My survivor story is about the whole body. I sometimes think I was behind the door when bodies were given out. So while I was beating cancer I was gaining weight. Complications arose, some related to treatments and all exacerbated by my weight. I ended up with a hysterectomy, an oopherectomy (ovaries removed) and finally gastric bypass weight-loss surgery. My t-shirts became smaller. I was finally becoming truly healthy. I have to fight to keep it everyday. But I have a survivor "toolkit" of sorts that cancer has given me. Cancer is no gift, but survivorship certainly is.

A young woman who is a forever friend of the family recently showed us a wonderful quilt she had made of all of her past t-shirts. She had every event from her elementary school through the end of high school. And proudly- there were some relay team shirts woven into her life's story, too.

Ten years. That is a painful yet joyous decade I have lived. A gift from God everyday! I am truly thankful and humble. Celebrate! Remember! Fight Back!

Have You Thought About Joining the 2011 Relay Committee?

2011-01-07T11:01:00.005-05:00

I was just looking at the Relay For Life of Medford's official website for 2011. Yes! It's just like the Mummer's Parade where they interview a grease-painted sax player on New Year's Day and he says they have already begun planning for next year's event! Relay For Life takes a team and a whole year to plan- and honestly our relay could use your help!

I am a team captain and in previous year's worked as Kid's Walk Chair and Publicity Chair. Those years were the most exhausting but gratifying years of my life! Currently I am maintaining my team and free-lancing as our relay's "biggest cheerleader" by helping out where I can online. That is what I can currently do. What about you? There are jobs available with a variety of commitment levels and all are important. If you think about where your talents lie, you might find many ways of fitting in and helping further the cause.

Here is a list of standard Committee Positions:
Event Chair
Co-Chair
Team Development
Sponsorship
Logistics
Activities
Mission Delivery
Advocacy
Survivorship
Luminaria
Ceremonies/Entertainment
Accounting/Registration
Publicity
Online Chair

For our relay there are also special designations for our unique events such as Kid's Walk and Canine Walk. Under each Committee Chair people serve in a variety of ways. You can go to the committee undecided and say "I want to help." You can talk over their needs and your boundaries. There is no big pressure to do more- just to do something! There are great people on the Planning Committee- and they have a vast amount of experience and enthusiasm. They will welcome your inquiries and find a place for you to land that will be enjoyable and rewarding! You help is really needed.

One thing that cannot be discounted is what volunteering for the Relay For Life can do for YOU! Not only can you develop new skill sets, you can realize talents you never knew you had! You can serve and be served. You can make life-long friends- not just the passing type. It's the heartfelt, brother-sister-for-life type. It's passion and caring and working together. It's learning. It's pretty awesome! Think about it!

So how do you start? When do you start? You start right now!
Contact Event Manager: Marissa (Levin) Grossman
Telephone: (856) 616-1650 x406
Email: medford.relay@cancer.org

Marissa is an American Cancer Society paid staff member and the Event Manager for Relay For Life of Medford (and other South Jersey events!) She can tell you best about opportunities for the 2011 event. Some Planning Committee Training begins on January 22nd so call now especially if you are interested in a Chair or Co-Chair position this year. The complete Planning Committee schedule is on the website here.

You start right now!

Blood Test for Cancer Cells in Development?

2011-01-04T20:14:00.015-05:00

Wow! Periodically you listen to the evening news and are floored with some bit of research or talk of a new procedure or test for cancer! Tonight was one of those heart fluttering moments when I was hearing that University of Massachusetts was onto a bloodtest for cancer cells. Immediately my head began to spin with possibilities as I listened intently and was driven to Google to read various accounts of the story. While I hope this is a great achievement I am cautious in my joy and went to Dr. Len's Cancer Blog on the American Cancer Society Website at www.cancer.org to see what Dr. Len had to say. His blog can be found here: Dr. Len's Cancer Blog

As expected he remains optimistic yet cautious and explains many ideas concerning news of this type. Of course in wondering about cancer research you have to wonder about the battle between cancer charities and researchers and the big pharmaceutical companies. "We're all in this together, right?" I truly hope so. Dr. Susan Love, the guru of breast cancer physicians, described some concerns about what to do with the knowledge in a hubpages article.

where it is written:

Dr Susan Love would probably err on the side of caution, rather than starting cancer treatment too early. ABC reports:

"Having the cells in the bloodstream does not necessarily mean that the cancer will spread and kill you," said Susan Love, president and medical director of the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation, a breast cancer support and advocacy organization. "Just because you find them does not mean you know what to do with the information."

As for me, I am getting my colonoscopy and meeting all my usual ACS guidelines for early detection- and remaining ever hopeful!

Wake Up Little Suzie! You've Gotta Be Kiddin' Me!

2011-01-04T00:42:00.004-05:00

So far, Komen has identified and filed legal trademark oppositions against more than a hundred of these Mom and Pop charities, including Kites for a Cure, Par for The Cure, Surfing for a Cure and Cupcakes for a Cure–and many of the organizations are too small and underfunded to hold their ground...

Susan G. Komen Foundation Elbows Out Charities Over Use of the Word “Cure”

Just Call Me Katie... It's Colonoscopy Time!

2011-01-03T12:26:00.014-05:00

This week I will undergo my second colonoscopy at age 54. Since I am a breast cancer survivor, I am told I am at increased risk for colon cancer. After my first colonoscopy, which was negative, I was told to return in 5 years. Because of other GI surgeries, I have delayed to seven years. The American Cancer Society recommends a screening every 10 years for the "normal" population. At any rate, I have my "prep" items together for a day at home of R & R and repeat bathroom trips! Katie Couric would be proud!

My insurance company is covering 75% of the cost. I am going to owe about $1600 out-of-pocket expense. In my opinion, it's worth every penny. You see, the benefits of early detection is never more dramatic than with a colonoscopy! Polyps can be a precursor to cancer, so during the procedure if polyps are found they can be removed on the spot and cancer can be stopped in its tracks. That is a miracle in my book!

I am remembering my old friend, Marie, who was lost at age 30 to colon cancer. She did not have this option or the knowledge we have. She did not have a choice and when her cancer caused symptoms it was already too late. Within four months she was gone.

So what is a little Miralax, Gatorade and some passing embarrassment in the scheme of things? A small price to pay for good health and peace of mind. The Relay For Life promises to use funding for cancer efforts in our own community. But cancer prevention may be "in your own backyard." ;) Some things you just gotta do.

For a list of American Cancer Society cancer screening guidelines go here -->

ACS SCREENING GUIDELINES

surfin4acure: Thank you to the MEEA!

2010-11-03T14:01:00.000-04:00

surfin4acure: Thank you to the MEEA!: "The Mt. Ephraim Education Association is the most generous group of teachers and support staff that I know! I don't even work there anymore,..."

Making Strides Makes An Impact

2010-10-26T17:27:00.007-04:00

Last Sunday, an absolutely gorgeous Fall day, I had the pleasure of participating in my first Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk. This took place at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken, NJ. The route was 3.7 miles around the River- which looked more like a little lake to me. Many of my Relay For Life friends were there including Mike Cashen, Aimee Belgard, Joyce Matola and the ACS Staff Partner Marissa Levin among others. My understanding is that though this is a breast cancer awareness event, the funds go into the American Cancer Society- as do Relay For Life funds- for use in our local area.

Different than a relay- this event involved teams and individuals who did pre-event fundraising. There were no on-site fundraisers. The event kicked off with a wonderful DJ who served as an emcee for the event. I do not know his name- but I thought he did a great job. I must say- not all DJ's are good emcees! He had the crowd going without going overboard! The event staff did many recognitions and thank yous to their committee and volunteers (there were over 200 volunteers for this event!) and also for their sponsors and biggest fundraisers. Kudos to all!

T-shirts were available for purchase for $15 as well as other Making Strides ware. The Survivors had been given pink t-shirts. There were tents for Advocacy and information about the ACS programs. Many teams of families, co-workers and friends were seen rallying around their loved-one survivor or sporting a memory t-shirt or sign with a photo or message about someone lost to breast cancer. The field was soon a sea of pink as thousands of people gathered for the opening ceremony.

A group from Burlington presented the colors and the National Anthem was sung. Survivors walked a triumphant first lap around a cinder track in front of the cement amphitheater bleachers. People were encouraged to cheer, wave, throw kisses, hug and cheer on the survivors. You would think after 9 years of surviving that I would be immune to this, but there it was again. Suddenly I was flooded with memories of those who I have personally lost and those who are still fighting. And though there are more cancer survivors than ever, especially thanks to the American Cancer Society, this is no easy road or assured passage. I remembered a Relay For Life where I was reluctant to take part as a survivor and I remembered another survivor who is now gone who helped me get over my fear and turn it into pride. And so yes, I had a lump in my throat instead of my breast as I walked around that track. The Paul VI High School cheerleaders played a wonderful role spread out along this track and saluting each survivor who walked by with great gusto. Thank you girls for your smiles and warmth and lovely young faces. You warmed my heart.

Then the walk began and the people poured out onto the walkway and spilled over onto the road until finally the crowd thinned enough and paces were set. I had fun listening to my iPod shuffle and have been training as best I could for this walk. For me this was a feat. I have severe arthritis and my knees are bad. I have lost a lot of weight, but the damage has been done. And chemotherapy also increases arthritis. But on this sunny day- I felt good and knew I would not stop no matter what. Along the way people would stop and "hug a survivor" and I knew that to them I represented someone they loved. Sometimes I feel unworthy of this role. Perhaps its "survivor's guilt." But then again I think "I represent." I think about Kathy and Ali and Mare and Gerri and Renee and Matti and Bert and Malinda and Marcie and Joanne and these are only some of the women I have met and lost in 9 years after breast cancer. Many appear in the gallery pages of www.bcsupport.org including myself on page 1 and page 5. It all floods back. Reminders of how resilient we can be and how far denial can take you.

Three fourths the way around now I look across the river and there are hundreds of people walking in a never-ending mile of pink reflecting in the water and on the sky. I feel so blessed. As I enter the last stretch the emcee calls out to come down to the finish line and there are the Paul VI Cheerleaders in two lines beckoning us to walk through their midst and be saluted at the finish. What better way to end a journey around a few miles and back a few years and on into the future.

Oct 7th- 2010 Relay Wrap Up Meeting

2010-10-20T11:30:00.002-04:00

Recently I attended the 2010 RFL Wrap Up meeting held at the Moorestown Library- with representatives from relays throughout Burlington County including Medford, Delran and Marlton. ACS Staffers including our Staff Partner, Marissa Levin, were there. Mike Cashen, Medford Chairperson and all the Committee people were in attendance. It was a hardworking group. Team Captains from most of the top teams were there for recognition.

Some 2010 stats that I wrote down:

The Eastern Division- includes NY and NJ
52,000 patients were helped with our donations in Eastern Div
In South Jersey- 15 relays
2842 patients were helped in SJ
1300+ were newly diagnosed in SJ
60 wigs were provided to cancer patients in SJ
85 breast prosthesis were provided to patients in SJ
307 participated in the Look Good Feel Better program in SJ
654 received one-way rides from Road To Recovery volunteer drivers in SJ
11 million survivors will celebrate another "birthday" this year nationally
$453,865.64 was raised by our three relays- Delran, Marlton & Medford
$22.5 million raised nationally
$1.3 million raised in all 15 relays of the SJ region

CONGRATULATIONS to all the teams and participants! What a wonderful thing to be a part of and know that the donations and efforts are really making a difference!

2011 Relay For Life of Medford, NJ
June 11-12, 2011 (8:00 AM-8:00 AM)
FREEDOM PARK in MEDFORD, NJ

I Am Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in Pennsauken!

2010-10-18T16:55:00.006-04:00

This year I decided to help the ACS in a new way for me- by participating not only in Relay For Life but also in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fundraising walk. There are numerous Making Strides events, but I am walking on Sunday Oct 24th at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken.
If you would like to join my Strides team- sign up online here:

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/MakingStridesAgainstBreastCancer/MSABCFY11Eastern?pg=team&fr_id=28002&team_id=801253

LAST CALL ON 2010 RELAY DONATIONS!

2010-08-24T09:10:00.001-04:00

RELAY ROCKED!! Relay For Life of Medford has raised over $200,000 and counting!You have until 8/31 to turn in funds to count toward your team totals Please mail any additional donations to the American Cancer Society at 1851 Old Cuthbert Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 Attn: RFL Medford (include our team name so you and the team can get credit!)

Best Decorated Campsite Goes To... CUPCAKES FOR A CURE!

2010-06-24T10:16:00.002-04:00

Chad Mason Walks Close to 20 HRS!!

2010-06-24T10:06:00.003-04:00

Once a Marine always a Marine! OOH RAH! Hats off to Chad Mason of the "Jonesing For A Cure" team who walked close to 20 hours at Relay For Life of Medford in support of childhood cancer survivor, Charlie Haughey! In addition to Relay For Life and the American Cancer Society- you may wish to support Charlie through The Charlie Haughey Fund. Read on...

3 year old Charlie Haughey was diagnosed on Christmas Eve, 2009 with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma, a large, malignant, metastatic, nerve-based abdominal tumor. He is currently undergoing treatment at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).The money collected through the Charlie Haughey Fund will be to used to cover whatever costs of his treatment insurance doesn't cover and will be held until Charlie is 'out of the woods' and in remission with a clear prognosis. The remainder of the Fund (hopefully the vast majority) will be entirely donated to research for Neuroblastoma and childhood cancers.

The fund has been graciously set up by Katrina Strich, Diane Smith and the other truly amazing friends of Charlie's parents, Mike and Julie Haughey. They are planning many fund-raising events in the future including races, musical performances and other fun activities. Stay tuned for future events . . .Please send donations to: Randy and Katrina Strich 121 Algonquin Trail Medford Lakes NJ 08055 You may follow him on this site: http://www.causes.com/causes/437713

Thanks to Chad for calling attention to the special needs of childhood cancer families.

RELAY ROCKED IN 2010!!!!!!!

2010-06-24T10:03:00.003-04:00

What an incredible Relay For Life event last weekend! The Relay For Life of Medford has raised more than $172,000 to date. Please keep fundraising to help us reach our goal of $250,000!! Send any additional donations to: American Cancer Society, Attn: RFL Medford, 1851 Old Cuthbert Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034

ZUMBATHON! June 5, 2010 2-4 pm

2010-05-13T00:56:00.002-04:00

ZUMBATHON!

$20 in Advance$25 at Door

Limited Space!

DOOR PRIZES! GAMES & FUN!

Benefit for the American Cancer SocietyRelay For Life of Medford

Featuring the FabulousNina McGough

Certified Zumba ® Instructor

Saturday, June 5, 2010

2-4 PMdoors open 1:45pm

Bowker Hall, Medford United Methodist Church

2 Hartford Road, Medford, NJ

CALL MARY: 609-513-1270 to reserve your spot!

Brought To You By

Surfin’ For A Cure Relay Team

The Medford United Methodist Church

No experience necessary! Fun for adults of all ages- guys & Girls!

Wear your workout clothes & Sneakers

JOIN THE FUN! HOTTEST LATIN FITNESS CRAZE!

Checks payable to: American Cancer Society

'Designing Women' star Dixie Carter dies of cancer

2010-04-12T01:36:00.000-04:00

LOS ANGELES — New details are emerging in the death of "Designing Women" star Dixie Carter.
Publicist Steve Rohr told The Associated Press on Sunday that Carter died in Houston of complications of endometrial (en-doh-MEE'-tree-ul) cancer.
Carter died Saturday at age 70. Husband and fellow actor Hal Holbrook called a "terrible blow" for their family.
The Tennessee native, with her unmistakable Southern accent and style, was a Broadway veteran before she landed a series of high-profile television roles that made her a national star.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5ijoPRR4kAxfAAWVU6_RJ-lm3M5CAD9F1753G0

Shannon Tweed (Simmons) Breast Cancer "Scare"

2010-04-12T01:32:00.001-04:00

Actress Shannon Tweed revealed she had a brush with breast cancer on the season premiere of Gene Simmons Family Jewels on A&E. While Simmons has been known to go to extremes to get ratings for his show, both he and Tweed to whom he is “happily unmarried” made it very clear after the episode aired that this was a very real scare that was not manufactured for television.

http://www.helium.com/items/1780450-the-shannon-tweed-breast-cancer-scare

Martina Navratilova dx with Breast Cancer

2010-04-12T01:28:00.003-04:00

Martina Navratilova, the pioneering paragon of fitness who played competitively on the women's pro tour until nearly 50, is being treated for breast cancer.
Navratilova, 53, went public with the news Wednesday on Good Morning America and People.com.

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/tennis/2010-04-07-martina-navratiolva-breast-cancer_N.htm

Mammogram Time!

2010-04-07T09:23:00.007-04:00

I can't help but notice that my annual mammogram has slipped silently from March into April. This is a strange insurance company phenomenon. My gram is thankfully "covered" each year- yeah Amerihealth! But it must be 365 days past the last one. So each year when I schedule- it's bumped back a week and now it's April instead of the fateful March- which in my head will forever be my "cancerversary." March 7th. The day I became cancer-free. Nine years ago to be exact!

So off I go to South Jersey Radiology- to the zapmeister! Now that I am off of all treatments and a true survivor in every sense of the word- I am scheduled for a regular diagnostic mammogram. Nothing fancy for me! There are less views taken. Less scrutiny. But as the technician reads my history her brow furrows and she smiles that knowing smile at me. She knows the survivors. We are the ones who come in and say- "Here, take this silly robe all the way off- it's just in the way!" There is no less care and attention. She is quite careful as she positions me to include the area where there is a metal clip in my body inwardly marking removed lymph nodes under my arm. She is extra cautious to align the machine to cover where the tumor once was on my chest wall. And she is oh so careful about how she talks to me. Outwardly there are still the scars- faded in all their glory. And there are the bluish tatoos used to align radiation treatments.

This year the procedure is so much easier. Mammography is now digital. The machine is more streamlined than I remember. The technician must still carefully align your body for best positioning- and its always awkward. But its less so. And the procedure takes less time as she no longer has to pull large plates of x-ray film in and out of the machine. Its all on the computer. Position. Hold it. Zap. Relax. Repeat. Before you know it you are done. She can confirm immediately that the images are "good" and the doctor will be reading them the next day. Good to go!

Because of my many procedures, I have some residual aches and pains that haunt me. My ribcage on the radiation side is inflexible and aches at times. My shoulders have been problematic ever since treatment- having to bear an uneven load and having weathered so much manipulation- it takes a toll. I have osteoarthritis. So a few tylenol are in order today and the next day, too. But overall this was easy.

Then- as I am driving home- I almost forget- it hits me- they could find something! One - brief - moment - of - panic.

What if they did? Cross that bridge if we get there. Survive.

Relay For Life of Medford Meeting Schedule

2010-03-22T12:08:00.004-04:00

For all the latest RFL Medford information- including the latest "Relay Chat" newsletter- please visit the http://www.medfordrelay.com/ website . Here is a list of upcoming meetings to prepare for the 2010 event:

Relay Participant Meeting March 30, 2010 Medford Middle School - Room LGI
6:30 pm New Teams 55 Mill Street, Medford, NJ 08055
7:00 pm Veteran Teams

Relay Participant Meeting April 20, 2010 Medford Middle School - Room LGI
6:30 pm New Teams 55 Mill Street, Medford, NJ 08055
7:00 pm Veteran Teams

Relay Participant Meeting May 11, 2010 Medford Middle School - Room LGI
6:30 pm New Teams 55 Mill Street, Medford, NJ 08055
7:00 pm Veteran Teams

Work For A Cure Day May 15, 2010 Various locations around Medford
Special Relay Participant Meeting June 2, 2010 TD Bank on Stokes Road, Medford

Relay Participant Meeting June 8, 2010 Medford Middle School - Room LGI
(Campsites & T-Shirts) 6:30 pm New Teams 7:00pm Veteran Teams

JUNE 19-20 2010 RELAY FOR LIFE FREEDOM PARK MEDFORD NJ! RELAY ROCKS!

June 19-20, 2010! RELAY ROCKS!

2010-03-22T11:57:00.003-04:00

The word is out! RELAY ROCKS! is the official theme for the 2010 Relay For Life of Medford, NJ! Already I am receiving inquiries about how to join my relay team in support of The American Cancer Society. The most poignant of these was a call from my friend, Debbe Barnett. The Barnett Family just lost Dave's mother, Elizabeth Barnett, to breast cancer. Elizabeth had a long battle and the family was all too familiar with their roles as caretakers. Through the years Debbe has spoken to me about her feelings of being surrounded by the shadow of cancer, as it has been on both sides of her family. Her mother is a 20 year breast cancer survivor. Debbe and Dave have supported me for the past 9 years I have beat my disease and been ever present from the first relays. My heart goes out to them and their family in this time of grief. And I am happy that in some small way, our relay team is able to now help them. Donations to the American Cancer Society in Elizabeth's memory were generously made through our team. And Dave and Debbe have said they will once again be at the relay and walk with us. We will be keeping Elizabeth in our mind this year. We will honor her memory and celebrate her life as well. Relay will rock! Because we will rock together- with hope for the future.

2009 Relay Stats from www.medfordrelay.com

2009-11-02T08:22:00.000-05:00

CONGRATULATIONS & THANK YOU RELAY FOR LIFE OF MEDFORD!
Because of your outstanding efforts and commitment, YOU helped to raised $290,486.40 in 2009 to help fund the fight against cancer. Congratulations & thank you for another very successful Relay!

2009 Relay For Life of Medford Stats:
82 Survivors
91 Teams
34 All-Stars - see below to see who they are!
24 Teams in the Fundraising Club - see below to see who they are!

2009 Relay For Life of Medford All-Stars:
Tiffany Bechtold
John Bensted
Mary Anne Canales
Kathleen Carp
Michael Cashen
John Cavalluzzi
Shanna Cucugliello
Tanya DeLia
Joyce Doran
Karen Dydak
Nancy Eagan
Paul Eagan
Kathleen Feudale
Tammy Herbert
Bridget Heydon
Keith Jones
Michelle Kaelin
Becky Kasper
Sam Kahuila
Tom Loglisci
Diann Love
Jane Lyons
Dan Mancuso
Danielle Mason-Walter
Joyce Matola
Gregory Merlino
Terri Merlino
Missy Miller
Charlie Shemeley
Kelly Shemeley
Claire Taylor
Christine White
Jim White

2009 Relay For Life of Medford Fundraising Club Teams:

Purple Team (raised $50,000+):
Fight Cancer $100,100.00
Sapphire Team (raised $15,000-$24,999):
Phh-Merlino's Silver Lining $21,460.20
Gold Teams(raised $7,500-$9,999):
The Bikers of South Jersey $9,061.00
Cure Scouts Sisters $8,601.58
Jonesing for A Cure $8,421.56
Cupcakes for A Cure $7,504.28

Silver Teams(raised $5,000-$7,499):
Our Gang $6,044.72
The Center for Cancer $6,039.47
Taking Charge For A Cure $5,825.68
Live to Love Another Day $5,565.40
Coldwell Banker Elite Mount Laurel $5,029.74

Bronze Teams (raised $2,500-$4,999):
2nd Saturday $4,937.41
Marlton Elementary School $4,891.00
Medford Schools Rule! $4,883.91
D-Feet Cancer $4,132.96
Copacabana $4,023.61
Make A Difference $3,104.50
Flying for A Cure $3,066.00
Surfin' for A Cure $2,961.28
Friends for Life $2,903.61
Phh-Sheehan Faithful $2,841.02
Team Pop-Pop $2,574.96
Cherie's Sunergy $2,555.00
Team GEICO $2,500

Mary Kay Open House!

2009-10-17T19:09:00.003-04:00

You Are Invited To Attend

Mary Kay Cosmetics Open House!

FOOD! FUN! PRIZES! FRIENDS!

AND BEAUTIFUL COSMETICS YOU HAVE COME TO KNOW AND LOVE!
COME! SHOP! STAY A LITTLE OR A LOT!

Fundraiser for The American Cancer Society
Hosted by Beauty Consultant, Kim Ballinger

A percentage of proceeds to benefit

2010 Relay For Life of Medford

via the “Surfin’ For A Cure” Team

Friday October 23, 2009 Time: 7-9PM
Saturday October 24, 2009 Time: 2-4PM

704 Baylor Street, Delran, NJ 08075

RSVP: Kim (856) 764-6677

2009 Wrap-Up Meeting Report

2009-10-01T14:54:00.003-04:00

I don't know what it is, but I go to these relay meetings now and then and I always get choked up. Yes, even after 8 years of survivorship, it still hits me. In fact, even more so with another family member or friend touched by cancer year after year after year. I attended the Relay Wrap-Up Meeting at the Medford Community Center last night. As usual when I left I felt that lump in my throat and those tears in my eyes as I drove out. Sad, afraid, happy, hopeful and thankful all rolled into one again. And proud, too. Proud to know these amazing passionate people! We are truly blessed to have the support of not only the national American Cancer Society- but these fine volunteers from our own community! Especially to Event Chair Terri Merlino (left) and her Co-Chair Mike Cashen. And Marissa Levin, the Staff Partner from the American Cancer Society. Bravo for them all!

Here is some information I jotted down from the meeting:

· Relay For Life of Medford 2009 raised $290,486.40 !
· The Eastern Division of Relay 2009 (NY-NJ combined) raised $20.7 million!
· South Jersey Division of Relay 2009 raised $1.1 million!
· RFL Medford remains one of the largest relay events in New Jersey!
· The top fundraising team in Eastern Division was from Medford! TEAM FIGHT CANCER!
Chris White, Team Capt. Fight Cancer raised $100,100 in 2009!
· The top fundraiser individual was her husband, survivor, Jim White. Jim raised over $57,000 in 2009!
· 24 Teams from Medford made the National Fundraising Club Levels(over $2500)
· Medford boasted 91 teams and 82 survivors in 2009!
· Best Campsite Award for 2009- Cupcakes For A Cure!
· Most Spirited Team Award for 2009- Cupcakes For A Cure!
· Relay Queen Award for 2009- “Jasmine” Jim White! (They gave him a purse!:)
· Most Valuable Team Award for 2009- Team Fight Cancer!
· Best Rookie Team Award for 2009- Second Saturday!
· The new relay page is up and running at http://www.medfordrelay.com/
· Hats off to the amazing 2009 Planning Committee!
· Extra special thanks to Terri Merlino for Co-chairing with Mike Cashen, who will be taking up the torch for the 2010 event! Your dedication is awesome and we would follow you anywhere! Especially to Freedom Park on JUNE 19-20, 2010!

Join The Relay Celebration!

2009-09-19T11:07:00.004-04:00

The 2009 RFL Medford Wrap-Up Celebration & Awards Presentation will take place on Wed Sept 30 at 7pm in the Medford Community Center at 21 S. Main Street. Snacks and Refreshments will be served. Last year it was a nice event- with all the local relay "hardcores" in attendance. By that I mean our HARD WORKING DEDICATED COMMITTEE! This group is amazing and they come back year after year to fight against cancer here in our own community. BRAVO! They deserve to celebrate! And they will be announcing the total fundraised from our June 2009 event- yes all the monies are in and counted and they are ready to let us know! Also- teams will be recognized for their fundraising level awards. YEAH! Its a great time to CELEBRATE, REMEMBER and FIGHT BACK against cancer. Do not be surprised if you are swept up in a wave of enthusiasm and join a committee for JUNE 19, 2010 at FREEDOM PARK- the next great relay event in Medford! Team captains and other interested people are invited to attend- please RSVP to Marissa Levin at Medford.Relay@cancer.org or call 856- 616- 1650 X 406 by Sept 25th.

Raffle of a Lifetime Total is in!

2009-07-25T14:00:00.001-04:00

The Raffle of a Lifetime was won by Pat Eberly of Williamstown, NJ. We sold 1027 tickets for a total profit of $11540.00!! Thanks to Kim McIntyre for organizing this! Thanks to all who bought or sold tickets!

2009 Event Pictures

2009-07-07T11:16:00.001-04:00

Whether you attended Relay this year or are curious about what it is all about, check out our picture gallery at www.mythreeroses.com and select the Relay 2009 gallery to see pictures from this years event.
We want to thank Dany and My Three Roses photography for the beautiful pictures!
Also, take the time to view this awesome audio slideshow: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMMRdpg3M5k&feature=channel_page

Relay For Life of Medford- Total Raised To Date

2009-07-07T11:15:00.001-04:00

We are proud to report that at this year's event a total of 90 teams came together, bringing participants who raised, to-date, $202,000 online through Relay For Life®. This was an amazing year!

Report: VA Hospital Botched Cancer Treatments - Health News | Current Health News | Medical News - FOXNews.com

2009-06-30T22:24:00.001-04:00

Report: VA Hospital Botched Cancer Treatments - Health News | Current Health News | Medical News - FOXNews.com

Posted using ShareThis

Jerri Nielsen FitzGerald dies at 57; physician treated her own breast cancer at the South Pole - Los Angeles Times

2009-06-30T22:20:00.003-04:00

Jerri Nielsen FitzGerald dies at 57; physician treated her own breast cancer at the South Pole - Los Angeles Times

Posted using ShareThis

Farrah Fawcett dies at 62 from Cancer

2009-06-30T22:08:00.003-04:00

I always though Farrah was a ditz. Maybe so. Or maybe that was just the Hollywood version we knew. I do know this- no one deserves cancer. And Farrah Fawcett was amazingly brave in her very public battle. My heart goes out to her father who lost two daughters to cancer. I truly respect her for filming her story. I read an interesting article about a controversy brewing about "Farrah's Story." In which questions are raised about the editorial license taken to make her story more palatable and less controversial. Please read! http://www.typepad.com/services/trackback/6a00d8341c2c4f53ef01156f97e9ba970c

Relay Total

2009-06-30T21:52:00.002-04:00

No- I don't know what the relay total is yet! Seems to be a bit of a mystery. I do know that they continue to collect funds till August 31st however. In days of yore, they did a big...drum roll please.. and announced the total at the relay closing. But in recent years they seem reluctant to announce that as the total inches up and up throughout the summer and hopefully reaches the goal. It would be nice to know where we stand. The website says something like $150,000 but that is waaaay low. At the relay- someone told me they heard an announcement that we were at $180,000. I can't imagine we would not break the $200,000 barrier. But who knows? The rain of course affected the total as well as the start-up of other area relays. But we are all in this together. I am sure we did well- and it will be nice to hear what the final tally is! In the meantime- get those funds turned in from all sources!

Thanks you to the 2009 Relay For Life of Medford Planning Committee!

2009-06-22T11:23:00.004-04:00

RAIN? BAH! WHO CARES! The rain had nothing to do with our relay and that is thanks to an absolutely awesome RFL Medford Committee. They kept it going and going despite the rain. Having served in the past on the committee I know what a difficult task they have- and its an all year job to bring together a relay for life event-especially of the magnitude of Medford's event. They also wore many hats- so out hat go off to you- the committee! Bravo!

2009 RFL MEDFORD PLANNING COMMITTEE
ACS Staff Partner Marissa Levin
Event Chair Terri Merlino
Event Co-Chair Mike Cashen
Reg & Accts Tom Loglisci
Entertainment & Activities Ryan Cogan
Music Mikke McGregor-Cogan
Emcee Mark Eckert
Kids Walk Elizabeth Seagraves-Murray
Canines Against Cancer Sandra Martin
Logistics Jim White
Luminaria Deb Ehret
Publicity & Promotions Karen McCallson
Relay Store Pat Totten
Mission Delivery Joyce Matola
Cancer Survivorship Marlene Loglisci
Sponsorship Christine White
On-line Ryan McCambridge
Team Capt Claire Taylor
Team Development Tanya DeLia
Volunteers Jeanmarie Andrews
Basket Raffle Jane Lyons & Sam Kahuila
Raffle Kim McIntyre & Eileen DelVecchio
Little Miss Rose Danielle Mason-Walter & Keith Jones

Please write to your local newspaper and/or the local ACS Office to bestow your praises on this year's event and committee!

Relay For Life of Medford
c/o American Cancer Society
Cherry Hill Division
1851 Old Cuthbert Rd.,
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034

I Won't Let It Rain On My Parade!

2009-06-19T10:18:00.001-04:00

The weather report is absolutely horrible for tomorrow! But what the heck? Relay is a rain or shine event- so we go on no matter what! If its a lightning event then we go into Allen School air-conditioned gym. It will not dampen our spirits! Keep your chin up and your rain hat on!

2009 Relay Themed Lap Information

2009-06-14T17:09:00.001-04:00

2009 RELAY THEME LAPS

In honor of Relay's 25th Anniversary all theme laps will begin at 25 minutes

after the hour (more or less). You will also notice a 25th Anniversary theme

throughout the laps. Use your imagination, earn spirit points and most of all…

HAVE FUN!!!

12:00 PM
Survivor\Caregiver Lap

1:25 PM
1984 Lap
Celebrate the first year that Relay took place by dressing like it's 1984 again!

2:15 PM
Kid's walk lap
The kid's take the track!

2:25 PM
Beach Party\Luau Lap
Celebrate Relay's 25th anniversary with a beach party theme! Break out the beach gear, bathing suits and lei's!

3:25 PM
Crazy Hat Lap
Wear your craziest hat or better yet make a crazy hat and wear that!

4:25 PM
Workin for the Weekend Lap
Dress up like any occupation or job

5:00 PM
Fight Back Lap

5:25 PM
Power of Purple Lap
Celebrate 25 years of Relay with as much purple as you can!

6:00 PM
Fight Back Banner Lap

6:25 PM
Silver Surfer Lap (Superhero\Villian Lap)
Dress like your favorite Superhero or Villian! (Maybe you want to dress up like the Silver Surfer to celebrate Relay's Silver Anniversary?!?!?!)

7:25 PM
Fun and Games Lap
Dress like your favorite game piece, character, game, playing card…use your imagination!

8:25 PM
Mutli-Cultural Lap
This is your opportunity to proudly represent your cultural background. Cancer affects everyone, regardless of their heritage.

9:00 PM
Luminaria

10:00 PM
Fireworks

10:25 PM
Birthday Lap
Help us to celebrate Relay's 25th birthday! Wear your birthday hats, birthday decorations but, please, no birthday suits!

11:25 PM
Silver Screen Lap
Dress up like your favorite actor\actress\movie character

12:25 AM
PJ's Lap
It's late! Put your pajamas on!

1:25 AM
Hi-Ho Silver Lap
Dress like a Cowboy from your favorite Western!

2:25 AM
Pirate Lap
Arrgh! Dress like a pirate!

3:25 AM
Favorite Sports Team Lap
Show off your team spirit!

4:25 AM
Bedhead Lap
Wake up sleepyhead and show off your best bedhead hair!

5:25 AM
25 years in the Future Lap
What will Relay look like 25 years or more in the future?

6:25 AM
Clean up Lap
Grab a trash bag and help us clean up the mess we made with all of our fun!

2009-06-13T09:23:00.001-04:00

Team Captain And Participant Meeting
Friendly Reminder
Last Meeting Before Relay! Count Down To Relay!!Only 9 more days until Relay!!
Monday, June 15th Medford's Relay For Life -
Participants Meeting 6:30 for New Teams 7:00 for Returning Teams
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI
Just a few things to do and items to review as we head into the home stretch!! Here's the agenda for Monday's meeting.
Volunteers - we need a handful for the day of relay
Campsite Selections
Pick up t-shirts
Announce the winner of the Prime Parking Spot.
Those that brought in one of our new teams will be entered into this raffle.
The remainder of us will be hiking to our cars.
Review logistics
Overview of event schedule
Main StageBands
Sports Tournaments
Theme Laps
Texas Hold Em Tournament
Share on-site fundraisers
What to bring day of relay
Hand in donated bags of candy (no chocolate please)S
ign up for bake goods needed for the cake walk (YUM)
Review basket raffle line up
Communicate fundraisers going on
We have some really great baskets and prizes for event participation on the day of relay. You really will want to share this information with your family and friends. We look forward to seeing YOU there! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Claire Taylor
Claire- I want to add to the list- THANK THE FABULOUS RELAY COMMITTEE FOR THE HOURS AND HOURS OF HARD WORK AND DEDICATION TO THE PEOPLE OF MEDFORD!

ClearysNoteBook

2009-06-13T09:14:00.003-04:00

I can't believe young people are still being driven toward "smokeless tobacco." Recently I saw a fancy display at Wawa for a product called "Snus" which was hyping that it was spitless. Tobacco is tobacco and cancer is cancer. Please read the article about smokeless tobacco and oral cancer risk.

"By 26, he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of oral cancer and underwent four major surgeries, losing half his jaw, a third of his tongue and partial use of his right arm."
ClearysNoteBook, Jun 2009Please hit the link above and read the whole article.

Motorcycle Poker Run to Benefit ACS!

2009-06-10T18:22:00.003-04:00

South Jer-z Riderz Are Proud to Present:
Medford Relay for Life
5th Annual Bike Run

Benefit Ride for American Cancer Society’s
This year will be a Poker Run through Burlington County
Go at your own pace, Enjoy the ride, Support a good cause
Sunday June 14th, 2009
Rain Date Saturday June 20th, 2009

Registration @ Pic-a-Lilli Inn
RT 206 Shamong , NJ
10AM to 11:45AM
$20/Rider, $10/Passenger
http://www.southjerzriderz.com
On line registration or Donations
(All proceeds go directly to the American Cancer Society/Medford Relay for Life)

After Party @ Pic-a-lilli Inn W/wings & Refreshments
Music by : The JT Money Band

50/50 Raffle, Prizes, Give-a-ways, and more…

Tent/Campsite Decorating Information

2009-06-06T12:30:00.000-04:00

Tent Decorating Rules and Guidelines
• Each team participating in the tent decorating contest, can register at any of the team
meetings prior to the event day or email your team name, team contact person and camp
location (if known) to kimberly.mcintyre@mortgagefamily.com by June 15, 2009.
• You may also register the day of the event (June20), by 11:30 am. The sign up sheet will
be located in the registration pavilion at 9:00 am.
• A team registration can be a combination of more than one team if the campsites are
adjacent to each other so the decorations can be judged as one body of work.
• Spirit points will be given to the top three scoring teams.
• Decorations are within the confines of your team's campsite, but not limited to the tents.
• Props or costuming can also be a part of your decorating set up.
• Teams will be judged on their originality, visual effect, use of props/costumes, use
of cancer facts and/or tips on prevention, overall effect and representation of the
Medford and ACS themes.
Medford: 25th Anniversary
ACS : Celebrate, Remember and Fight Back
• Judging will start at 3:00 pm and finish by 5:00 pm on Saturday.
• The winning team(s) will be announced no later than the closing ceremonies and
awarded spirit points.

FINAL TEAM CAPT MEETING BEFORE RELAY- MONDAY June 15!

2009-06-06T12:25:00.001-04:00

**Next Team Captain & Participants Meeting**

Monday, June 15, 2009

Medford Memorial Middle School

6:30 PM for New Teams

7:00 PM for Veteran Teams

This is the final team meeting and campsite selection!

THREE Opportunities To Meet This Month!

2009-05-06T10:31:00.003-04:00

Did you know that there are THREE Team Participants meetings this month? So if you cannot make the meeting on Thurday- there are two more! They are May 7, May 13 and May 21. Check out the Relay Event Calendar here:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY09EA?sid=61320&type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=14103

Relay Meeting This Thursday May 7th

2009-05-04T09:46:00.002-04:00

Team Captain And Participant Meeting Thursday, May 7th, 2009 @ Medford MiddleSchool The meeting will start at 6:30pm for new teams and at 7pm for returning teams. We look forward to seeing you there.

Cancer- The Gift That Keeps On Giving

2009-04-27T00:20:00.001-04:00

It's hard for me to contain my anger tonight. Cancer just keeps rearing its ugly head. Recently a new-found online friend was helping me by supporting me through gastric bypass surgery. This gentleman turns out lives nearby and we had planned to meet. Finally making weightloss goals feels good and helping each other through is a good thing. This man is 60 years old and had lost his wife 5 years earlier to lung cancer. He was finally finding a new life and was hit by prostate cancer. He is currently in treatment.

Then there is an old breast cancer support group friend. She is 8 years out like I am. And getting ready to start her retired life- perhaps moving to another country. Ready for the next phase. Until she had a recurrance. Or so it was thought. Then it was determined to be a second cancer- of a different origin than her first. She is in treatment.

The hardest of all for me is a colleague who has become a friend. A soulmate for what I do- music. A loving and caring woman- truly a special person. And she has just had surgery for cancer that was in her ovaries and uterus. The pathology is not back yet- but the tumor was massive and its very serious. She will begin chemotherapy in a few weeks. This is a mother of two who also cares for her own mother at home. I am devastated by this news.

And I know it is not only cancer that gets people. A close friend has a daughter in her 20's who is battling MS. I plan to walk the MS Walk next weekend in her honor. I have been working hard on my weight loss and on my health in general. I am using the walks for myself andf or them. I am hoping for total health for once. It is a struggle. I am trying to grit my teeth and get past some persistent knee and back pain. And I think about the relay. And the MS walk. And people who leave this earth too early. And those that remain and suffer through harsh treatments. Somehow I am able to go another lap. Each lap- another face in my mind. Friends gone who I will never forget. Those who are fighting. I can surely go another lap even if they can't. I am not Lance Armstrong. I wish I were. But I can go a little farther. A little faster. A little harder. Then I cry.

Team Fundraising Club Levels

2009-04-16T13:22:00.001-04:00

Team Fundraising Club Levels:

Bronze Team: $2,500 - $4,999
Team receives Bronze level signage for display at their Relay campsite
Team members each receive Bronze level lapel pin
Verbal recognition at Relay For Life event

Silver Team: $5,000 - $7,499
Team receives Silver level signage for display at their Relay campsite
Team members each receive Silver level lapel pin
Verbal recognition at Relay For Life event

Gold Team: $7,500 - $9,999
Team receives Gold level signage for display at their Relay campsite
Team members each receive Gold level lapel pin
Verbal recognition at Relay For Life event
Team Captain(s) is/are invited to Regional Mini-Conference
Recognition at Regional Mini-Conference

Platinum Team: $10,000 - $14,999
Team receives Platinum level signage for display at their Relay campsite
Team members each receive Platinum level lapel pin
Recognition at Relay For Life event
Team Captain(s) is/are invited to Regional Mini-Conference
Recognition at Regional Mini-Conference

Sapphire Team: $15,000 - $24,999
Team receives Sapphire level signage for display at their Relay campsite
Team members each receive Sapphire level lapel pin
Recognition at Relay For Life event
Team is invited to Regional Mini-Conference
Recognition at Regional Mini-Conference

Diamond Team: $25,000 - $49,999
Mention in RFL Eastern Progress Online (e-newsletter)
Team receives Diamond level signage for display at their Relay campsite
Members each receive Diamond level lapel pin
Recognition at Relay For Life event
Team is invited to Regional Mini-Conference
Recognition at Regional Mini-Conference

Purple Team: $50,000+
National Recognition for each Purple Team
Members receive #1 Teams Nationwide lapel pin
Mention in RFL Eastern Progress Online (e-newsletter)
Team receives Purple level signage for display at their Relay campsite
Recognition at Relay For Life event
Team is invited to Regional Mini-Conference
Recognition at Regional Mini-Conference

Good luck and happy fundraising!

Upcoming Relay For Life Meetings- next one MONDAY APR 20th

2009-04-14T13:14:00.001-04:00

4/20/09Workshop - Becoming a Relay All Star
Top Fund Raising Teams & 2008 Relay All Stars
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

5/7/09 Regular Scheduled Meeting
Committee Updates
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

5/13/09 Work For A Cure Meeting
Work For a Cure Chair
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

5/21/09 Regular Scheduled Meeting -(Event Day Overview; Activities and Entertainment)
Event Chair
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

6/1/09 Survivor Dinner
Survivors
PHH Mortgage

06/03/09 TentativeBank Night-Turn in Money
Tom Loglisci
TD BankNorth

6/15/09 Regular Scheduled Meeting - Logistics - Campsite Locations - What to Expect
Mike Cashen & Jim White
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

6/20/09 RELAY!!!
Freedom Park

All meetings will start at 6:30pm for new teams and at 7pm for returning teams. We hope to see everyone out!

I Shall Be Glad- A Hopeful Poem

2009-04-10T15:28:00.001-04:00

I Shall Be Glad
by Grace Noll Crowell

If I can put new hope within the heart
Of one who has lost hope,
If I can help a brother up
Some difficult long slope
That seems too steep for tired feet to go,
If I can help him climb
Into the light upon the hill's far crest,
I shall begrudge no time
Or strength that I spend,
for well I know
How great may be his need.
If I can help through any darkened hour,
I shall be glad indeed.
For I recall how often I have been
Distressed, distraught, dismayed,
And hands have reached to help, and voices called
That kept me unafraid.
If I can share this help that I have had,
God knows I shall be glad.

Raffle Tickets- A No Brainer!

2009-04-05T18:58:00.003-04:00

I have sold 25 raffle tickets to the Raffle of A Lifetime. Ok- I am no math genius but here goes:

25 X $20.00 each = $500 for The American Cancer Society- c/o Relay For Life of Medford

My personal and my team's "credit" toward our fundraising goal?

I am told if all 2000 tix sell (they will!) then we can count on about $15.00 credit per ticket. It's whatever is left after expenses- which is $9000 valued prize for the winner.

Sooo- more math- 25 X $15.00 = $375 team and personal credit! WHOO HOO!

Thanks to the PHH gang for setting this up and sharing the opportunity with our teams! Get in on it! I WANT THEM TO SELL OUT SO I CAN CLAIM THE FULL BOAT ON WHATEVER I SELL TOO! I am picking up my first batch of tickets at the meeting on Monday. Details in two posts below about the raffle.
THIS IS A NO BRAINER!

Don't Miss! Meeting on MONDAY APRIL 6th! I am going!

2009-04-04T09:58:00.002-04:00

Fund Raising Made EasyDon't Miss This Meeting!!A MUST attend for every team captain and participant!!Monday, April 6thMedford's Relay For Life - Participants Meeting6:30 for New Teams7:00 for Returning TeamsMedford Memorial Middle School Room LGIHere's 10 reason's why you need to attend:Learn how you can increase your team's fundraising dollars by $1000! It's quick, easy and a slam dunk!!Learn how we can help support your fundraising effortsHave priority in selecting you camp site at this years Relay! Pick up your restaurant raffle ticketsHave an opportunity to share why you RelayAdvertise your upcoming fundraisers, and more through our new audio and video podcasts channel @ www.medfordrelay.com. Earn 500 spirit points for each team participantReceive your Team Captain GiftReplenish your suppliesHave some fun with your Relay FamilyAnd to top it all off, we will have free pizza and refreshments! We look forward to seeing YOU there!

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us! Claire TaylorTeam Captain ChairpersonPhone: 609-221-2338Email: claire.taylor@mortgagefamily.comTerri MerlinoEvent ChairpersonPhone: 856-305-6536Email: terri.merlino@mortgagefamily.comMichael CashenEvent ChairpersonPhone: 609-760-7259 Email: mcashen@verizon.net

Spirit Points & Community Service Hours!!! ACT FAST!

2009-03-30T14:20:00.004-04:00

Opportunity to earn Spirit Points and earn community service hours -- help inventory Relay For Life of Medford banners and signs at the Cherry Hill office of the American Cancer Society. Please contact Marissa Levin at marissa.levin@cancer.org for more information. Dates/times can be coordinated with your schedule.

Raffle Of A Lifetime

2009-03-28T11:04:00.003-04:00

I was just talking to Kim McIntyre about the RAFFLE OF A LIFETIME. I had a couple of questions for her:

Question One- how many tickets are available? Answer: 2000 That means if you buy one ticket your odds are 1 in 2000 of winning. I am not sure how the math equation goes if you buy more- but it will better you odds! Last year they sold out. This raffle was put together by employees of PHH Mortgage. They ran it last year for their teams and this year were kind enough to open it up to other teams to participate! The winner receives a $9000 grandprize and gets to pick the prize package!

Question Two- does the money raised count toward my individual as well as team total?
Answer: YES! Boy does it! Kim told me if they sell all 2000 tickets they anticipate the "credit" per individual and therefore per team to be $15.50 per ticket sold! FOLKS- that is more than 50%! That is more than 75% Holy Tomato Batman! That is MORE THAN GENEROUS!

Question Three- are there any ticket left?
Answer: Yes- but get moving! They are selling fast! You are probably good up to the April 6 Relay meeting. I plan to go and turn in an order at that time. Must pay when receiving tickets. No unsold ticket buy-backs.

Question Four- best way to take orders? Answer: Get a headcount, preferably with money upfront. Trust that you will be able to get the tickets you need, but if not you will need to refund that money. Cash is good! But if they want to write a check- make it out the "The American Cancer Society" for the full $20 per ticket. You can print out a ticket order form and fill in your name and team name before handing that to people who may take it to work etc and get a bunch of tickets sold at once. This orderform is like a pledge to get them the tickets. Blast out an email- I did yesterday and sold 15 tix within 2 hours!

Keep good records of who is buying and how you know them just in case they run out before you pick them up. GET IN THE RAFFLE NOW!!

Poker Run to Benefit the Relay- South Jer-z Riderz!

2009-03-25T18:11:00.002-04:00

I was talking on email to my old relay friend, Tim Everett, about the bikers being involved in the relay again this year. He has organized the South Jer-z Riderz and Friends for several years now and they have raised a lot of money for the American Cancer Society. There have been cancer issues with some of the club members, and so they want to give back. Like all of us- they want a cure!

So this time, their 5th year, they are changing it up a bit and organizing a Poker Run for June 14th- the weekend before the Medford Relay. My husband is a "weekend warrior" Harley guy. Yes- the music teacher married the biker- go figure! And I recently lost a lot of weight and am interested to know what the back of the Harley feels like these days. So what the heck? I am signing us up for the Poker Run!

Registration is at the Pic-a-Lilli Inn on Rt 206 in Shamong from 10-11:45 costing $20 per rider and $10 per passenger. And having heard about how poker runs work- I can't wait! Now- this does not mean you have to pay ONLY $20 or $10. You could fundraise and turn it in through Tim's Team- or make a donation. I am pretty sure they would not refuse! There is an after party at the Pic with wings and refreshments and the JT Money Band will be bringin' down the house! There are raffles and prizes etc- these bikers go all out to have a good time but also seriously fundraise. They want to break the $10,000 makr this year- Let's help them do it! All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society through Relay For Life of Medford.

http://www.southjerzriderz.com/

Two Great Fundraising Opportunities For Teams!

2009-03-23T21:05:00.003-04:00

You Relay For Life team can take advantage of two great opportunities to fundraise that the RFL Medford Committee has put together! One is the RAFFLE OF A LIFETIME and the other is the MAY 14th HOPE DINNER. Go to the relay website http://www.relayforlife.org/medfordNJ for information on these two- but act fast on that raffle!!

Here are the Raffle Details:
RAFFLE OF A LIFETIME
To Benefit: American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Medford
(1) One Grand Prize to be Awarded($9000.00 value)
PRIZE: Travel Gift Certificate* for an all inclusive trip for twoto one
(1) of the following travel destinations:
Super Bowl
Pro Bowl
Indy 500
Daytona 500
MLB All-Star Game
World Series
NBA All-Star Game
NBA Finals
NHL All-Star Game
NHL Stanley Cup
US Open Tennis or Golf
The Masters
NCAA Final Four B
CS Championship Game
Kentucky Derby
Walt Disney World (Florida or California)
St. Thomas Virgin Islands
Carnival Cruise (Caribbean, Mexico or Alaska)
Drawing to be held on or before June 20, 2009
Ticket Price $20.00 Each

Team Capt Meeting Dates

2009-02-10T13:17:00.000-05:00

Team Captain Meeting Dates
Mark your Calendars with these important Team Captain Meeting Dates!

01/28/09
Kick Off - Focus is for New Teams & Participants
Committee to Provide Relay Overview
Medford's Community Center

2/12/09
Initial Meeting-Review Goals & Demo of Website & Identify Workshops
Website Committee Chair
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

3/9/09
Regular Scheduled Meeting - Engaging the Community
Team Development Chair
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

3/25/08
Workshop - Sponsorship & Fund Raising (Reaching out to previous and potential sponsors)
Sponsorship & Fund Raising Chair along with Top Fund Raising Teams
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

4/6/09
Regular Schedued Meeting
Committee Updates
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

4/20/09
Workshop - Becoming a Relay All Star
Top Fund Raising Teams & 2008 Relay All Stars
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

5/7/09
Regular Scheduled Meeting
Committee Updates
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

5/13/09
Work For A Cure Meeting
Work For a Cure Chair
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

5/21/09
Regular Scheduled Meeting -(Event Day Overview; Activities and Entertainment)
Event Chair
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

6/1/09
Survivor Dinner
Survivors
PHH Mortgage

06/03/09 Tentative
Bank Night-Turn in Money
Tom Loglisci
TD BankNorth

6/15/09
Regular Scheduled Meeting - Logistics - Campsite Locations - What to Expect
Mike Cashen & Jim White
Medford Memorial Middle School Room LGI

6/20/09
RELAY!!!

Freedom Park
All meetings will start at 6:30pm for new teams and at 7pm for returning teams. We hope to see everyone out!

Thurs Feb 12 RFL Medford Participants Meeting Info

2009-02-10T13:15:00.000-05:00

Save the Date!!Thursday, February 12 Medford's Relay For Life - Participants Meeting Hello, Welcome and Thank You for participating in Medford Relay For Life of 2009! It's Relay's 25th Anniversary and we can't wait to get this party started!! Our first Relay meeting on Thursday, February 12th at Medford Memorial School, same place as last year! We will begin our meeting at 6:30 for new participants and 7:00 for returning participants. There are many new and exciting fund raising opportunities for you and your team to take advantage of. A few to note are; Purple Tie Dinner, Raffle of a Lifetime, Restaurant Raffle, Family and Friends Photo Shoot and Little Miss Rose Pageant. Many workshops are also available along with online tools to make your fund raising smooth and easy!!Please join us on Thursday to hear more about these opportunities and pick up your supplies such as luminaria bags, suns, moons and donation envelopes. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us! Terri MerlinoEvent ChairpersonPhone: 856-305-6536Email: terri.merlino@mortgagefamily.com Michael CashenEvent ChairpersonPhone: 609-760-7259 Email: mcashen@verizon.net Claire TaylorTeam Captain ChairpersonPhone: 609-221-2338Email: claire.taylor@mortgagefamily.com

Reflecting on Relay 2008 and Looking Ahead to June 2009

2009-02-10T12:10:00.006-05:00

I haven't had much time it seems to just sit and reflect on the 2008 Relay For Life. The rest of my life kind of hit me like a Mack truck since then. But sitting here in February of 2009, I can pause to take a deep breath and try to put some thoughts together.

Relay 2008 was a unique experience for me. For one thing, I had already made my decision to withdraw from my committee positions. I had served in one capacity or another for the past 7 years and it was time for a change. My family concerns had to come first. So it was a bittersweet relay. I was so proud that we had elevated our event to the largest in New Jersey! We have had some amazing committees! The people involved in Medford are so keenly involved, so dedicated and so creative! It has been an awesome experience to be able to work with them. And the community has supported us beyond 100 percent. I love serving the American Cancer Society and all that this event encompasses for so many. Money is one thing- but hope and caring is another and this is what brings me back to the track each year.

I am proud of my team! No, we are not a corporate giant. Originally it was my family team. But now we are a gathering of survivors and their families who gravitated toward each other through our church. My team raised $4724 in 2008 and my daughter's team raised $2992. I am in awe of this because this is completely grassroots for us. And because for the first year of relay I thought raising $100 each was too much money. I never dreamed I would be involved in raising over $25,000 in the next few years, let alone the thousands I have been able to facilitate in other ways. This is a very empowering feeling- a real and tangible way to fight back against cancer.

This year my team is again spawning. My daughter is forming a college team at West Chester University. Her old high school team lives on and she plans to remain involved with them. Another team member is splitting off. And in the bigger picture- our entire relay is spawning- with new relays forming in Moorestown and Marlton. People have seen what we are doing is a good thing and they want it for themselves. For their town. For their family and loved ones. At first I was a little sad about the idea of new relays. We had worked so hard for our own identity and building our realm. But now my thinking is different. Yes, the Medford event will be different this year. But after attending the Kick-Off Meeting- I am sure the amazing spirit of the Relay For Life of Medford is still there- and I am in!

So now about the Mack truck- or more like the convoy! My father had been ill for several years in a nursing home. He was end-stage renal disease, on dialysis with vascular dementia. His care was becoming increasingly time-consuming for me. My father-in-law, Marty, was also experiencing health problems, however we thought he was more stable. In the Spring of 2008, Marty developed a chronic cough. Long story short, this progressed until in July he need a trach tube for suspected throat cancer. He went through a series of tests ultimately revealing advanced lung cancer. He passed away on August 10th. I was recovering from weight-loss surgery which I had on July 1st. Then my father began to go downhill with a series of hospitalizations until finally he passed away on December 29th. Let's just say that my family was glad to see 2008 go! I have decided to dedicate my team, Surfin' For A Cure, in memory of Marty this year.

I also recently learned of two more dear people in my life who are battling breast cancer. My dearest college roommate and maid-of-honor, June, and a former colleague. Both women have very different prognoses. I learned of a former student, who lost her mother to breast cancer, and just lost her father to cancer as well. It makes you wonder, will it ever end? This cancer. And yet I am living proof of cures that are happening every day. I have no doubt of my own good-fortune.

On a good note, I am happy to report that I have lost over 100 pounds since my surgery! I am on the road to the best health I have had in a long time. Geeze... I have had a lot of surgery in my life! This was a hard decision for me. Do not ever let anyone tell you that gastric bypass is the easy way out- because it most certainly is not. I am not happy that I have had to solve my weight issue in this way, but I am grateful in the way I am grateful for having had chemotherapy. I know that estrogen positive breast cancer can be fueled by obesity. Nevermind the heart and diabetes and other health issues. Yes, I am type-2 diabetic. But the surgery has miraculously controlled that since the day of surgery! I am off so many medications. I am working hard at the gym and still fight my body for control. But I am doing well. I have a hard time weeding out very large relay survivor shirts from my closet, in fact I have not been able to get rid of them yet. But I look forward to a new smaller one this June!

Relay For Life Kick-Off Jan 28th, 2009, 6:30PM

2009-01-20T23:20:00.014-05:00

It's time to get this party started... and the 2009 Relay For Life of Medford will be a Party because this year we will be celebrating the 25^th Anniversary of Relay For Life!

Please plan to attend

Relay For Life of Medford Kick-off

When: January 28^th

Where: Medford Memorial Community Center

21 South Main Street Medford, NJ

This year our Kick-off is going to be bigger and better than ever!

What's new for the 2009 Kick-off?

Introducing the ‘09 Team Recruitment Contest' - To help celebrate the 25^th Anniversary of Relay, our goal is to recruit at least 25 new teams to the Medford Relay!

You will have an opportunity to earn one of a few ‘prime' parking spots on the day of Relay (next to the lap course).
All you have to do is recruit new teams!
The top 3 existing teams who bring in the highest # of new teams between now and Bank Night will each win 1 spot per team. Details during Relay info session below*

Attend the Kick-off and get a chance to win a 30-32 inch flat screen TV that you can use for Relay For Life fundraising! Hear from our top fundraising team how you can turn this prize into $$$thousands$$$ of dollars raised for your Relay Team.
Hear fundraising secrets from some of our top fundraising teams from prior years.
Pick up your Team Captain starter kit.
Learn about the Raffles that your Teams can use to raise money.

* An information session for anyone new to Relay will be held from 6:30 - 7 pm on Jan 28th. The Kick-off event will continue at 7:00pm when we will be joined by existing teams.

What we need you to do??

Mark your calendar and plan to attend the Kick-off on January 28^th.
Contact those family and friends who may not be familiar with Relay and invite them to join you at the Information Session from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. to learn how they can Fight Back to eliminate cancer!
Contact Marissa Levin at (856) 616-1651 x406 or e-mail her at medford.relay@cancer.org to RSVP for you AND those family and friends who will be attending with you. Come out on January 28^th and bring someone new from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Join us at 7:00 p.m. to kick off the Relay Season, hear more about what's new for 2009 Relay For Life of Medford and learn how you can raise more money than ever as we Fight Back to eliminate cancer!

Find the Relay For Life of Medford on FACEBOOK!

2008-09-13T11:09:00.003-04:00

www.facebook.com

Search friends for "Medford Relay" and join the fastest growing group on Facebook!

Relay For Life of Medford Total Over $324,000- Over 1.3 Million in 8 Yr History!

2008-09-13T10:58:00.000-04:00

Medford’s Relay For Life Announces ’08 Final Tally
Planning for Local 2009 Events Already In Progress

(Medford, NJ) September 10, 2008- Trish Jones, Director of Special Events for the American Cancer Society’s South Jersey Division, has announced the final tally for 2008 Relay For Life of Medford. “The final count for the Medford Relay is an amazing $324,621.27!! Medford Rocks!!” she wrote to organizers. Her excitement is shared by the entire Medford Planning Committee that she helped guide through another year of dedicated relay preparation.

In its eight year history, Medford went from approximately $32,000 in 2001 to an amazing combined 8-year total of $1,348,700 reached in 2008. Money that is raised goes toward every aspect of the American Cancer Society's fight against cancer, including research, prevention, patient support, detection and treatment, advocacy, public policy and management. Relay donations are not dedicated to one specific type of cancer.

Barbara Will, 2008 Medford Event Co-Chair and lymphoma survivor, said, “I am in awe of the people of Medford and the entire surrounding communities. We asked and they helped make the relay a wonderful, fun-filled and very productive event. All the participants, team captains and volunteers that have attended the relay, fundraised before and during relay, and donated to relay have shown the true community spirit of the event, making it a truly special one. I can say that the committees I have worked on these past 4 years have been some of the absolute best.”

Each year there are committee changes and this year is no different. Will has decided to leave the committee, “in the very capable and inspiring hands of Terri Merlino. I know that she will continue to keep relay fresh and ever growing as we work to find a cure for this horrendous disease.” Terri Merlino served as Co-Chair with Barbara Will this year. Despite leaving the committee, Will intends to continue her work for the ACS and return to Captain her team once again, “The Tribe of the Warrior Princess.”

Terri Merlino is a colon cancer survivor. She is Captain of “PHH-Merlino’s Silver Lining” team. Merlino serves on the Executive Board of the American Cancer Society South Jersey division. She has selected committee member Mike Cashen to work with her as Co-Chair next year.

The relay spirit will be expanding in our area in keeping with the American Cancer Society’s goals of encouraging community events. Trish Jones will be assisting the newly forming Relay For Life of Moorestown. Marissa Levin, a veteran ACS staff member, will supervise the Relay For Life of Medford. Another new relay is also in the works for Marlton. The 2009 Relay for Life of Medford is slated for Sat-Sun, June 20-21, 2009 at Freedom Park. For more information on area Relay For Life events, visit The American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org or phone 1-800-ACS-2345.
###

Relay For Life of Medford- Last Call For 2008 Donations!

2008-08-18T09:21:00.003-04:00

I regret that I have been so busy this summer attending to various family issues that I have not been able to post until now! We had a fabulous Relay For Life event in Medford NJ and it was a huge success! Donations can still be sent in to be credited to the 2008 event. Either do this through a team captain or donations can be made directly to the American Cancer Society.
To turn in final donations, please mail them along with your name and team name to:

Trish Jones

American Cancer Society

1851 Old Cuthbert Rd.

Attn: Relay For Life of Medford

Cherry Hill, NJ 08034

At last official count we only have $5,000 to go to reach our goal of $325,000!!! Just think… if we received only $46 from each of our 108 registered teams – we would be there!

$307,000 and counting!

2008-06-23T07:10:00.002-04:00

The Relay For Life of Medford held a star-studded event on Saturday with a crowd of over 2000 people walking for the American Cancer Society! The event raised $307,000 and counting as fundraising continues through the end of August. Over 100 teams participated at Freedom Park under clear skies. Awesome! More soon!

It's Relay Week!! Time to Decorate!

2008-06-17T09:22:00.003-04:00

My team- Surfin' For A Cure- is ready! (Well, almost!) Despite the months and months of planning for the Relay For Life, the actual TEAM planning pretty much hits the fan as soon as I am out of school. This is a picture of last year's team. As for as I know all are returning and we have added quite a few members this year. My team will be over 20 people. My daughter is captaining a high school team of over 40! Go Team Awesome! And her high school (Shawnee) will have at least 4 other teams this year. So starting from a few people interested in the Relay- we have been quite a magnet for our event and I am very proud of that.

The relay theme is "Reaching For The Stars" a Hollywood theme. But we also have to tie in- the American Cancer Society and Surfing! Many teams are doing a specific movie. Team Awesome members were at my house yesterday and I came home to find many tall boxes painted to form mini-skyscrapers in the garage! They are doing King Kong at it was the New York skyline! What a riot! Can't wait to see Kong! Surfin' For A Cure has gone a different route. We are not doing a movie. Team member Charles Smith suggested we do the Oscars! He had the idea of team shirts that are "tuxedo" shirts! So I made up a drawing and they are in to the shirt guy! Black t-shirts may be hot at relay- but we will be "dressed." To tie in the Surf theme- we have a Hawaiian Hibiscus flower on the "lapel." And of course we will have our leis on! We have a red carpet and I had a banner made up saluting survivors as winning the oscar. I am pretty sure we will be making a big gold oscar guy this week! Every year my husband hauls out a surf board. I am not sure how we tie that in... maybe Oscar will be riding the waves?

Relay For Life of Medford NJ T-SHIRT & CAMPSITE MEETING

2008-06-05T22:30:00.002-04:00

Finally!!!!! Turn in money and get t-shirts and then pick out your team's campsite for THE BIGGEST RELAY FOR LIFE IN NEW JERSEY!!!
The last meeting for team captains and participants will be held on WEDNESDAY JUNE 11th at 7pm at Memorial Middle School on Mill St in Medford NJ. NEWCOMERS WELCOME!! It's never too late to join the relay!

Parade Goers Treated to "Relay Mobile"

2008-05-26T19:14:00.003-04:00

I took my Chevy Equinox SUV that we affectionately call "Goldie" and decorated her. Then we mounted a guitar amp on the roof which we hooked to a converter that was plugged into the cigarette lighter. Voila! We had sound! We blared "Every Lap" which is a great Relay For Life theme song donated to relayers everywhere by an enthusiastic participant online. We had about 20 walkers and 2 bike riders and we had so much fun at the Medford Memorial Day Parade. We honored our veterans by passing out American Flags. And we worked for the war on cancer by passing out Relay For Life information as well. Its a great parade in Medford and the crowd was appreciative of the high school bands, the Hobo band, the veterans groups and all the kids with decorated bicycles. The parade proceeded to the cemetaries for special ceremonies at graveside. I watching on tv as they showed pictures or Arlington National Cemetary tonight. White gravestone after white gravestone. It makes you think. It reminds me of the Luminaria Ceremony at relay. The luminaria remind us that so many are gone to a war very close to home. We lose so many far too young. Hats off to our service men and women for keeping our country safe and strong. And hats off to those who suffer from cancer in their private wars.

Relay For Life of Medford Works For A Cure This Saturday

2008-05-16T13:53:00.000-04:00

The Relay For Life of Medford will hold “Working For A Cure Day” on Saturday, May 17th at various locations throughout the Medford area. Local businesses have graciously donated space and supplies to support local Relay For Life team’s efforts to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Susanne D’Eustachio and her committee have been hard at work preparing events of the day. Information about the relay will be available at each location as follows:

Medford Bagel
Sell raffle tickets. Time 6:30am to 10:00am.

Medford Car Show <<------ RIVERSHARK MASCOT TO APPEAR!! 11am-12 NOON
Raffle tickets, moon/stars, collect donations. Time 9:00am-3:00pm.

Acme, Route 70
Sell raffle tickets. Time 10:00am-2:00pm.

Murphy’s Supermarkets- 3 locations- Pines, Taunton and Stokes Rd.
Each team will sell raffle tickets and bag shoppers’ groceries. Time 10:00am-2:00pm.

Roadside Money Drop
These can be big money makers for active teams! The time will be from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

Taunton and Hartford
Taunton and Tuckerton
Tuckerton and Jackson
Skeet and Dixontown

PJ Whelihan’s
The team at this location will bus tables, sell raffle tickets, and collect donations. Time 11:30am to 3:00pm.

Couch Potatoes, Ironstone Village Shopping Center
Sell raffle tickets. Time: 5:00pm-9:00pm.

Throughout “Working For A Cure Day” relay team members will be available to answer questions about joining team. Look for the purple and white relay signs or purple balloons! The 2008 Relay for Life of Medford’s 24-hour team event is slated for Sat-Sun, June 21-22 at Freedom Park, Medford. Contact Barbara Will at 609-304-5945. For additional information, visit The American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org or phone 1-800-ACS-2345. Please check The Relay For Life of Medford Webpage http://events.cancer.org/RFLmedfordNJ for the latest in relay information.

Working For A Cure Day, May 17

2008-05-15T08:00:00.002-04:00

Working for a Cure Day, May 17
Fundraising Location Descriptions

These fundraising opportunities are already set-up for you. Just sign up and with very little preparation, you’re ready to make some money!

Murphy’s Supermarkets
Each team will sell raffle tickets and bag shoppers’ groceries. Time 10:00am-2:00pm. When selecting Murphy’s, note which store location you prefer:
· Pines
· Taunton
· Stokes

Acme, Route 70, Medford
Sell raffle tickets. Time 10:00am-2:00pm.

Couch Potatoes, Medford
Sell raffle tickets. Time: 5:00pm-9:00pm.

PJ Whelihan’s
The team at this location will bus tables, sell raffle tickets, and collect donations. Time 11:30am to 3:00pm.

Medford Bagel
Sell raffle tickets. Time 6:30am to 10:00am.

Medford Car Show
Raffle tickets, moon/stars, collect donations. Time 9:00am-3:00pm.

Roadside Money Drop
These can be big money makers for active teams! The time will be from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

Taunton and Hartford-
Taunton and Tuckerton
Tuckerton and Jackson
Skeet and Dixontown

Have other ideas or suggestions, please contact Susanne D’Eustachio: sdeustachio@netzero.com.

Meeting Tonight 5/7 for Working For A Cure Day

2008-05-07T08:00:00.001-04:00

Working For A Cure Day organizers will meet in Freedom Park tonight at 7pm.

Union Street in Medford- 7pm.

Car Wash For A Cure

2008-05-05T22:34:00.004-04:00

My daughter has a relay team of high schoolers for Shawnee High School in Medford. I am so proud of her! She started out at relay our first year in 2002 on my team, Surfin' For A Cure. She has learned a lot about relay in the past few years and more than any kid should learn about cancer. But she has also learned about surviving. And about giving back. So now she is in her third year captaining her own team, Team Awesome. And they are awesome! So they had a car wash on Saturday. They earned $370 in cloudy weather. Great job!

The truly awesome thing was the cancer survivors and caregivers that surfaced at that car wash. And their stories were touching and amazing. One a gentleman suffering throat cancer and who was also losing his wife to incurable ovarian cancer. Two were breast cancer survivors. Each with unique characteristics and prognosis. Many mentioned losing someone to cancer, usually a parent. Several commented to the youth "Do not smoke." They listened. It was much more than a car wash. It was the relay spirit.

Relay For Life of Medford Meets at Freedom Park on 5/7/08

2008-05-05T21:08:00.004-04:00

The Relay For Life of Medford has scheduled a meeting for this coming Wednesday, May 8th, at Freedom Park on Union Street in Medford. The meeting will begin at 7pm. There will be discussion about the upcoming "Working For A Cure Day" for interested teams.

"WFACD" is planned for Sat, May 18th, in conjunction with the annual Medford Car Show and features fundraising activities for teams including coin tosses, grocery bagging, luminaria sales, raffle ticket sales and more.

Also at the meeting- team captains may turn in money and pick up any needed supplies for their teams including collection envelopes, relay yard signs or any forms they need.

Meeting Tonight! Are You Coming?

2008-04-07T10:20:00.002-04:00

If you don't come to the relay meeting this is what you will be missing:

ENTHUSIASM! HELP! EDUCATION! SURVIVORS! CONTESTS! BARB! HOW TO FUNDRAISE! TERRI! CLAIRE! VIDEO! SLIDE SHOW! POSTERS! RELAY STORE! WATER AND PRETZELS! CAREGIVERS! DATES! ENTERTAINMENT UPDATE! SIGN-UPS FOR WORKING FOR A CURE DAY! RYAN! REGISTRATION! FUN ACTIVITIES!

Oh give it up and come out to the meeting. You also get to meet- me!

6:30 newbies 7:00 everyone 8:00 committee people Memorial School on Mill St in Medford.

Relay For Life of Medford April Dates

2008-04-05T13:09:00.003-04:00

Important Dates!!!
April 7, 2008: Team Captain/Participant Meeting/ Planning Committee Meeting
come at 6:30 if you are new or need a refresher
come at 7:00 if you know what you are doing and just want this year's info
come at 8:00 if you want to be on the Planning Committee
Memorial School on Mill St in Medford

April 8, 2008 (5 - 7 PM): Kids Walk McDonalds Fundraiser (Route 70 in Marlton)
Support the Kids Walk!! Come have dinner at MickyDees and 15% goes to help with KW expenses. Lets throw the kids a big carnival!!

April 12, 2008 (10:00 AM - 9:00 PM): Boscovs Team Capt Fundraiser (Deptford Boscov's)
Teams can do fundraisers at the mall en masse.

On Becoming A Survivor

2008-04-01T07:11:00.009-04:00

S U R V I V O R . . .
Cancer survivors come in all flavors! Young, old, male, female. All kinds of cancer. All stages of disease and- survival! When I was newly diagnosed, the word "survivor" did not seem to fit. I did not feel like the survivors I had known. I was still learning how to cope minute by minute, never mind hour by hour or day by day. Now I can count seven years since my surgery. I use my surgery date as my 'birthday" when counting the years I took back from the disease. Who would have thought a fundraiser for cancer would have proved the best therapy I could ever have after cancer treatments? For a long time I had a hang-up about being labeled a "survivor." I was embarrassed. I would go to cancer events but hang on the fringe and certainly never wear the shirt that was emblazoned with the "S" word. I felt branded by cancer. I could write boldly online to someone half way around the world about cancer but I could not admit it in my own backyard. The Relay For Life urged me to get in step with my fellow survivors. And one woman in particular straightened out my thinking- that was Susan Bishop Jones. Susan was the feisty Chairwoman of the Relay. She was battling advancing colon cancer in her early forties. She was a wife and mother. She was "in your face" mad at cancer and she was doing something about it. Sue was like a hornet to begin with but when cancer struck her she was a whole hive that had been shaken and thrown! LOOK OUT!

I had been working for Sue on the newly conceived Kid's Walk. Sue had picked me for the job that somehow morphed from running a small walk for children into orchestrating a carnival for hundreds of kids. I was overwhelmed but loving the experience. But I did not like the survivor lap which had caused me a humongous anxiety attack the year before. I did not want my name called. I did not want to walk it. I would watch. But the thing is- I become too emotional. And I am ok with emotion- I am a musician- but it has to be on my terms. And walking in a sea of purple shirts would put me over the edge. I would be thinking too much of those I knew who already had not made it. I would focus on the fun of relay- making a good time for others. I would laugh at cancer as I had been doing to get myself through it. In short, I had a full-blown case of denial about being a cancer survivor. And Sue brought me back to reality. Because the reality was this- she was not going to survive much longer, but I probably was. You see, you have to first believe you HAVE cancer before you can realize you have survived it.

And so a mention in an email to Sue two weeks before relay that I was not too keen about the survivor lap brought on the charm that only Sue could muster. She called me. Survivor lap? Not walking? You should be PROUD to be a SURVIVOR!
Sue talked to me about her cancer. About how she was coping and how she felt angry. And how she was proud to consider herself a survivor. She said that everyone tells her that her cancer is not curable but she is not believing that. She was counting herself as living and I was counting myself as dead. She knew I was just frightened and she said- I will walk it with you.

I thought about it a lot as relay was approaching. Gradually my thinking was changing as I began to accept what I had become. Somehow I mustered the strength to start walking that lap. I started out with my friend, Marty. Sue led off the group, but sure enough, by the time we were half way around the track at Lenape High School she had doubled back to find me! She was wearing her top hat and tux because we had a circus theme. She was radiant! She grabbed me by the arm and joked "I thought you weren't ealking?" We walked a lap together and yes, I cried eventhough I was smiling. That was June of 2005. Sue was having a hard time with her treatments, but no one knew it on that day. She was so alive. We were survivors.

Following are several news articles about Sue.

Cancer survivor called inspiration; honored for work at Relay for Life
By: Danielle Camilli BCT staff writer dcamilli@phillyBurbs.com Date: June 26,
2005 Page: 1,2B Section: NEWS
MEDFORD - When Susan Bishop-Jones was diagnosed with colon cancer in early 2002,
her doctors were not optimistic. She was told she had six to 15 months to live.
Since then, the 42-year-old has given birth to a healthy baby boy, continues to work full
time in the superintendent's office of the Lumberton Township School District and has
chaired a large-scale cancer awareness and education fund-raiser for the past three years
in Medford.
"I'm at 39 months and counting," she said.
Yesterday, during the closing ceremonies of the American Cancer Society's annual Relay
for Life at Lenape High School, Bishop-Jones was surprised with a special presentation
in honor of her courage, inspiration and dedication.
The Burlington City resident has been the chairwoman of the four-year-old event for the
past three years.
"Despite her difficulties in fighting the disease, she has done so much," said Mary
Manion of Medford, one of the event organizers and a cancer survivor herself. "She is
wonderful. She's a tough lady who knows how to get people together. I've learned a lot
from her. She really is an inspiration."
Bishop-Jones is a stage-four, colon cancer survivor. Since she was first diagnosed with
cancer, the disease has spread to multiple organs, including her lungs, and to her bones.
The mother of three said she is in her fourth and final regimen of treatment.
Bishop-Jones has undergone numerous surgeries, including the removal of part of her
large intestine and cancerous growths from her lung and abdomen, as well as
chemotherapy.
She said her 16-month-old son, Noah, was a blessing. Her doctors' initial response to her
pregnancy was that she could not have the baby because of the cancer. Doctors also told
her she wouldn't be able to get pregnant because of the disease and the medications.
"I told them I was having the baby," Bishop-Smith said. "They did (some tests) at 11
weeks and we found out he was perfectly healthy."
She has two other sons, ages 19 and 20.
Bishop-Smith said her work with the annual Relay for Life - which organizers hope will
raise $150,000 for the American Cancer Society this weekend - is her way of giving back
to the community.
"I'm hoping to effect change and be a part of finding a cure and new medications," she
said. "It's a huge undertaking, but I have to do it."

Co-founder of cancer society event dies at 42
By LAURI SHEIBLEY
Burlington County Times
BURLINGTON CITY — When Susan Bishop-Jones was diagnosed with colon cancer four
years ago, she refused to give up on life.
She committed herself to finding a cure for cancer, and co-founded the Medford Relay
for Life.
This year's event raised $202,000 for the American Cancer Society.
Bishop-Jones fought her disease until Saturday, when she died at age 42.
Todd Jones said his wife beat the odds and survived several years longer than doctors
expected.
“We were given six to 15 months, and we made it four years,” he said. “She was very
strong willed and had a mind of her own. She fought harder than anyone I've ever
seen.”
Within months of her diagnosis, Bishop-Jones was on the phone, offering to volunteer
with the American Cancer Society.
“The cancer wasn't going to beat her,” her husband said. “She was going to beat it.”
Bishop-Jones helped start the first Medford Relay for Life in 2002, which raised $32,000.
Relay for Life events are held all over the world. Groups collect donations and walk
around a track during the all-day event.
The Medford event grew larger and raised more money each year.
About 2,000 participated in 2005, said Mary Manion, who helped organize this year's
event.
“She just kept going,” Manion said. “It was unbelievable.”
Stage-four cancer spread to her lungs, bones and several organs. She had undergone
several surgeries, including removal of part of her large intestine and cancerous growths
on her lung and abdomen.
Despite that, Bishop-Jones didn't let her disease slow her down.
Two years ago, she gave birth to a healthy boy named Noah.
“It is a blessing,” said her husband. “That's her legacy.”
She also has two adult sons, Ted and Andrew Busciacco.
Bishop-Jones was an administrative assistant for Lumberton Township School District.
She worked for Assistant Superintendent Terrence Healey for three years. Healey said
Bishop-Jones was always quick to return to work after radiation treatments.
“She was more than a fighter,” Healey said. “She was a warrior and just inspired
everybody with her courage.”
In the past few months, Bishop-Jones' health declined, but her husband said her spirit
was still strong.
“This last bout of radiation, because her body was so weak, she wasn't able to come
back,” he said, “so the inevitable happened ... She lost the battle, but she won the
race.”
Friends may visit with the family from 6 to 8 p.m. tomorrow at Perinchief Chapels on
High Street in Mount Holly.
E-Mail: LAURI SHEIBLEY
December 14, 2005 8:31 AM

Thanks Sue.

Relay Timeline Takes Shape

2008-04-01T06:56:00.004-04:00

We're "Reaching For The Stars!" as our theme says!

The Relay is really starting to take shape! It's one of those things where the main ceremonies are the same- but each relay committee, each relay theme, each set of new ideas- makes it take on a life of its own for that year. So it's interesting to keep coming back. This year the main timeline is as follows:

Sat., June 21, 2008 FREEDOM PARK, MEDFORD, NJ

8am- set up

10am registration

12 noon opening ceremonies

1pm survivor lap

1-5 CPS-3 Study

1:30 Bikers arrival

2:00 Kazooers assemble

2:15 Kazoo Chorus and Kazoo Lap

2:45 Philly Phanatic

3-5 pm Kids Walk

4-6pm Canines Against Cancer Dog Walk

7pm Texas Hold 'Em

8:00 pm Basket Raffle

8:30 Small Kids Activity- story time?

9 pm Luminaria Ceremony

10 pm Fireworks!

Sun., June 22, 2008

12 midnight- overnight activities- themed laps and entertainment!

8am- closing ceremonies

And if that isn't enough- they are working behind the scenes- believe me- to add more! Stay tuned!

Sad news comes in twos

2008-03-21T09:47:00.010-04:00

My Canadian friend, Joanne, passed away. She was diagnosed after me in June of 2001. And yet this seems so quickly that she is gone. A wonderful co-worker just lost her husband to cancer, too. The same night as Joanne. Both are to have services following Easter. I am playing my trumpet at church on Easter and in my mind, I am dedicating my music to them both. I will be thinking of them as I do my Relay For Life work this week. Relay at least gives me a positive, tangible thing I can do. I don't want this to happen to anyone else.

Here is Joanne's Blog http://joannes-blog.blogspot.com/

JoanneS

2008-03-18T08:12:00.004-04:00

JoanneS is a woman I met online at the beginning of my cancer journey. We have exchanged thoughts as part of an online support group ever since. She is a wife and mother. She always seemed to be an "old soul" to me- but she is only 46. Her journey has been difficult. She has forged her way with such dignity. I have marvelled at how she has planned for her family- for the "after." Now she is in palliative care in the hospital and it won't be long before she is gone. I am going to miss Joanne.

Cancer Thoughts

2008-03-16T15:24:00.011-04:00

I was having a lot of thoughts about cancer today. First of all, I got yesterday's mail out of the mailbox (that's they way it's usually done around here!) And there was the notice from South Jersey Radiology about my recent mammogram. It said there was "no evidence of cancer." YEAH! So I had a clear mammogram. Whew! In fact- since I am over 5 years cancer free, I now only have a regular "screening" mammogram instead of a "diagnostic" mammogram. But having been a cancer patient- I have ambivalent feelings about this. This ambivalence is a vestige of cancer. So while my head is saying, "Yipee! Just a screening mammo!", my heart is saying, "Is this enough?"

As I am offered a pink gown- well its more like salmon or coral. These are those tiny robes apparently meant for women under 150 pounds- I know that I am in for a fun time. You see, the girl helping me, sweet as she his, could probably be my daughter. And she's too oblivious to notice I can't possibly fit into this gown. Now THAT is oblivious!

I tell her I am a teal girl. A what? Teal, sweetie. I need a teal-colored gown- they're bigger. Sometimes they have them. There seems to be only two sizes. Pink for girls, blue for boys. Or in the typical color pallete of hospital waiting areas, salmon and teal. (OMG I match the wallpaper!)

The other option is to wear two of the pinks. Yes! I have done that! I am handed a very pink plastic bag and instructed as if it is my first mammogram- any powder or perfume? Just remove your top half- keep your bottom half- all clothes in the bag. Yada Yada Yada. It's comical at this point. But I play the game- and rejoice for a minute at it all- the screening mammogram instead of the diagnostic! I'm normal! It's good.

When I am called in the xray technician is examining my questionairre answers. And then the reality hits- its not normal at all. She wants to see my scar. She wants to see where clips remain in my breastbone area and my armpit. She wants to know where the radiation was. She laments at not having access to previous mammograms. They are not recalled in a screening mammogram. I feel she does not have the tools she needs to work with. She can only go so far- but she will go as far as she can. And soon the teal gown is nothing but in the way- so I end the charade and just take it off.

The equipment is new this time. Digital instead of analog. Wow- and I seem to fit better. But there is a lot of pain. I have scar tissue that to this day keeps evolving and it gets sore from this. A week later I am sure I will still feel it. But I have already taken ibuprofen. I thank God for the machine that I am hugging as the familiar buzz irradiates my breast. I am in the habit of collecting all purged films and ask for them and find out this is passe now that digital is "in." Besides film is not viable beyond 5 years. So my cancer is passe.

I am a 7 year cancer survivor. I keep saying that in my head. But it does not seem that long. And it dawns on me. Cancer diagnosis- then chemo- then radiation- then tamoxifen- then hysterectomy- oopherectomy- then aromasin. Finally the hotflashes from hell wane. It doesn't seem like 7 years since- but that is because I was being treated for so long. More like 2 years since it all seemed to stop. And I have been picking up the pieces ever since.

Yesterday my husband and my daughter went skiing in the Poconos. They were bombarded at the top of the hill by kids selling pink ribbons for "breast cancer." The exact charity was not evident. And who has money at the ready at the top of a mountain? The lodge maybe, but here? Here at the summit of Pennsylvania? Is there no place to escape? My husband was annoyed. My family has been through it all. And they have done a lot for cancer fundraisers. So meaning to tell the teen that he "already gave a the office" as it were- he said "My wife is a 7 year survivor." And the kid snapped back "She's lucky!" My husband said he was dumbstruck. And he decided just to ski away. I think he missed a teachable moment. I wonder if that teen lost someone close. But it was a strange clashing of the best of intentions.

I am lucky to be here. But I am not lucky that I got cancer. And at 7 years out- I'm not "over it." I'm not sure I ever will be.

Relay For Life Meeting This Wednesday!

2008-03-10T11:39:00.002-04:00

The first official team captain meeting of this relay season is scheduled for Wednesday, March 12th at Memorial Middle School in Medford on Mill Street. It's exciting to see all the returning team captains! There are always hugs, some misty eyes and lots of love in the air. We all work so hard on our relay. And we are there with a lot of passion for our cause- The American Cancer Society. I know for myself- the ACS funded the research that ultimately created the drugs that saved me. This year the Team Captains are meeting at 7pm. But new this year is a session starting at 6:30- a "pre-meeting" for newbies. Or oldies who need some refreshing! Come on out and see what it is all about. I am making a DVD slide show presentation- the finishing touches go on tonight! It is very inspiring to see the images from last year's event. We have two great photographers- Joan Wheeler and Krystal Pennell. They do a fabulous job! We have a gorgeous Medford logo- drawn by artist Chuck Dillon. (Chuck does tons of artwork in the area including the Philadelphia Zoo and for "Highlights For Children" Magazine. ) Our theme is Reaching For The Stars! Do you know any stars? I do- I think they are also called Team Captains! COME OUT TO THE MEETING!

My 7th Cancerversary Is Today!

2008-03-07T10:52:00.002-05:00

Today is the day! It's been seven years since my surgery for breast cancer. I call it my "Cancerversary." It's the day I use to count how many years I have been a "Survivor."

My surgeon was Dr. Eric Miller at Virtua Memorial Hospital of Burlington County- Fox Chase Cancer Center. I had a sentinal node biopsy, lumpectomy, 33 radiation treatments, four rounds of "AC" Adriamycin and Cytoxan chemotherapy, 2 1/2 yrs of tamoxifen hormonal treatment, 2 1/2 years of aromasin aromatase inhibitor treatment. My wonderful radiation oncologist was Dr. Ariaratnam and my oncologist was Dr. David Flinker (who retired) and now is Dr. Maurice Cairoli. I am blessed with a fabulous treatment team, family, church, friends and co-workers. I AM GRATEFUL! Thanks to all these people that surrounded me- and a few up in Heaven- including "the big guy" TODAY is a great day! And so will be TOMORROW... and the day after.... and the day after that!

My Team Page Is Updated!

2008-02-25T01:50:00.000-05:00

http://surfin4acure.tripod.com/

We're Kicking Off Our 2008 Relay!

2008-02-16T16:41:00.002-05:00

We have been having Planning Committee Meetings since September to lay all the groundwork for the relay event. We have a great committee this year- Barb Will is Event Chairwoman, Terri Merlino is our Event Co-Chair. The two work tirelessly on relay stuff. Both are cancer survivors. Both have families and jobs and this is all done in our "spare" time. Not much leftover sometimes! But its rewarding to Kick- Back at Cancer- that bombarded our lives uninvited!

We are joining forces with two other local relays to hold a "Kick-Off Celebration" at the Moorestown Mall- Macy's Court on Sat Feb 23 at 6PM. I am working on a slide show. We have some great surprises! Our relay family is a bunch of hams really! Give them a mic and a spotlight and they come up with some crazy stuff to get your attention about cancer!! Come on out to the mall and see what it is all about! You can sign up for a team. Start a team of your own. Eat some food. Watch the entertainment. Hear a survivor speech and a caregiver speech. See what the differences and similarities are with all three relays- Medford, Delran and Haddon Township. And people from the ACS Staff will be there, too. You can learn about Medford'd CPS-3 study enrollment. Maybe you will go to all three events this spring/summer!

Kazoos Against Cancer

2008-02-06T23:40:00.001-05:00

I must be completely nuts! For some reason I was mulling over Relay entertainment. We always seem to need a quick live something at various pre-events- like our Kick Off event that is coming up Feb. 23. So I had the idea of forming a Kazoo Chorus. Or is it a Band? Only your hairdresser knows for sure... So the idea was hatched and "Kazoos Against Cancer" was born. I went to my favorite kazoo site- http://www.kazoos.com/ and ordered 100 purple and white hummers. Our debut will be a small gathering at the Kick Off on Feb 23 at Moorestown Mall- we will be the Finale- humming a two-part "Gonna Fly Now" Theme from Rocky! $3 gets you a lifetime membership and a "free" kazoo. And probably costs me my music career- but what-the-ha-hey! At relay we plan for a "select group" to go for some big tunes- someone suggested "Bohemian Rhapsody." Yikes! I was thinking more like "Saints." But something spectacularly hummiful. Then we will have the "open" group- anyone can join- a massed Kazoo Karnivale. And then we probably end with "We Are The Champions" around the track for a Kazoo Lap. Next year I am bringing chalkboards and growing my fingernails. Anything to annoy the crowd. :) I found a link to a kazoo group doing Rocky- start practicing! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Seglez6aw4

I signed my team! Surfin' For A Cure rides again!

2008-01-14T01:02:00.000-05:00

In anticipation of eventually hosting more than one team (it always seems to happen!) I registered today as Surfin' For A Cure 1... with 2 and more coming before June. I average 3 "teams" per year- which is 10-15 people. Last year I had two since my daughter split off and all the youth went her way. It's common for teams to evolve that way. I register them and list myself as Captain for all my teams and we are really under the umbrella of one. We tent together- its just a record-keeping move to list them as more than one team. We started as Surfin' For A Cure- representing online support and information for cancer survivors. More on that in the history section someday...

Relay For Life of Medford New Web Page!

2008-01-13T19:13:00.000-05:00

The American Cancer Society has activated our brand new Relay website! Check it out at http://events.cancer.org/RFLmedfordNJ You can sign up as a team captain and start a team! This year the relay is trying to go as paperless as possible. As you can imagine- it saves a lot of money. I figure the more money saved- the more available for the real work- research, education, advocacy, support, awareness. This year, luminaries can be purchased on-line. When you buy luminaries online from a team member's page- that person will be designated as the recipient of the "credit" for the luminary sales. This is a great motivator! I will be purchasing all my own luminaries on-line and designating them for my own team. Earlier in the fall I held a fundraiser at my school and raised some money which I have sent to the ACS to deposit for my team. I can go to the website and list that amount as an "off-line donation." It helps me keep track of where I am and will motivate my team. I think I will go sign up right now!

Planning Committee Meeting

2008-01-07T16:19:00.000-05:00

There is a planning committee meeting tonight- which always brings a flurry of activity from me- at the last possible minute! Today I sent emails all over the place in a bold attempt to cover my butt for the lack of work I did for the relay over the holidays! Relay work tends to take back-burner and then when I do have a moment for it I have to seize the day- or usually the night. Then it's a deluge of activity. Thank God for email! Things I am working on.... the idea of a motorcycle show at relay, planning strategies for publicity for the event, team planning for fundraising, helping my daughter organize her team ideas for the year, coordinating local publicity with photographers and the ACS office, begin working on a relay slide show. Gotta get dinner together before the meeting...

History of The Relay- Part 4- In Which I Start A Team

2007-12-31T10:59:00.000-05:00

I started watching the paper for information about the Relay For Life and at some point was directed to a Captain's Meeting. It was at Lenape High School in the cafeteria and I remember laughing that they had refreshments and were serving chicken wings! I was so attuned to diet- living large as I am- and I was consumed with the idea that I had single-handedly caused my own cancer- that I thought for sure this was poison. Little did I know that "relay people" are real people and sooner or later we want to eat something. And sometimes something a bit bad is good. Next to me in the audience was a woman who I remembered from the gym I had recently joined- one of the physical trainers. I felt strangly surrounded- chicken wings on one side- the gorgeous athletic trainer on the other! This was a bit of a nightmare for me!

A young woman got up to speak who had been bustling around preparing papers to take home and this was Debbie Cooney. She reminded me immediatley of Sarah Jessica Parker. Debbie was dynamica and bubbly and a great speaker. She was the Co-chair she said. I was taking notes. It was a small audience. But people were warm and seemed to be reaching out as they looked around observing one another. I found myself trying to guess who had cancer.

Debbie then introduced a small woman who was wearing a red bandana and obviously had no hair. She had that chemo survivor look I had seen in my own mirror for many months. This was Susan Bishop-Jones. Susan introduced herself and spoke about her colon cancer battle. She was passionate and resolved to fight. She seemed angry at cancer and I did not blame her.

Debbie then got up and introduced her young daughter, Kaitlyn, who was a leukemia survivor. Kaitlyn looked to be about 8 or 9 years old. A little younger than my own daughter. And already had lived through cancer? And she stood up and recited a speech from a piece of paper she clutched in her hand. I saw her mother in her. And I saw Hope- with a capital "H."

We were told to come up with names for our teams. I wanted to have some fun with my family- I was tired of pink ribbons- I wanted to honor the help I had received through online support- so later that night I came up with "Surfin' For A Cure." Not too unique- there are lots of relay teams named that nationally. But I like Hawaiian shirts! So my team was born. I expected my family to join and maybe a few more. I knew I needed 10-15 people. Little did I know my team would grow to almost 30 the first year!