As much as I have always wanted to post a blog, I never thought anyone would be engaged in any topic that I might have on my mind. But because of Laura and my dedication to her legacy, I am going to give this a shot.  I hope that the story I share with you today will touch you as much as it did me. 

I must say that involvement is probably my middle name.  Yes, I seem to get involved in quite a few projects.  Don't we all?  As I have grown older and my children are now grown and out of the house, it seems to be a bit easier to get involved.  Some of my outreaches include working on a few websites (my church and my alum group to name a couple) and I have found that very gratifying. I am heavily involved in music at church and this is just my way of giving back to God the talent that He blessed me with.  He has given me much in return I must say.

We all have our obligations to work and family.  But how many of us really dig down deep and decide to get involved?  And why would we?  I find that involving myself for the benefit of others really helps me to better cope with those tasks that I must otherwise engage in.  And I must say that my involvement with this Foundation has already brought me so many blessings.  I simply wanted to share one more with you.

Although I spent time and effort in helping to prepare for the recent Clean Out for Cancer yard sale, I was unable to attend because of an unexpected death in the family.  I traveled out of state to support my cousin as he buried his mother.  Knowing that I wouldn't be available, I began to recruit others to help in my absence.  My heart was in two places that day but I knew the choice I made was for the best and I knew that others could help to make this sale a success.

Shortly after my return, I received an e-mail from one of those individuals.  This person will remain unidentified but I must (with their approval) post an excerpt from that e-mail:

I worked at the yard sale yesterday, primarily prompted by your absence.  I have to say, it was one of the most rewarding experiences I've had in a long while.  Spending time with this family and meeting new friends was nice, but the reason for the whole event touched me to the core.  I realized I've spent too much time working and not enough time living and doing.  I am more committed than ever to share my time and talents (whatever few they may be).

So with this blog post, I want to encourage you to take some time to get involved.  This disease is so widespread and is still touching so many lives (including my own) currently through others who are fighting it.  We can all make a difference.  Banded together for this cause, we will make a difference. Perhaps you can make that decision today by completing our volunteer form and/or signing up for Notify Me. Or if you choose, check out our calendar of events and attend an upcoming function.  Finally, you can simply donate financially to this fight for early detection.

I would love to know how your involvement has (or will) bring fulfillment to your life. Please post your comments here.