On May 29, 2009 there was a spectacular event held in Bonham, Texas. It was the Relay for Life for Cancer, the theme being “A Walk to Remember.” And believe me I will remember it for the rest of life as will many many others.
This was my first year to be involved and I was absolutely amazed. There were events that led up to that special night. There was a luau held at the Boyd Baptist Church. There was a meal and door prizes and the people that attended were able to meet others just like ourselves. It was an eye opener for me to realize that so many people in this area were affected by the same disease.
I was diagnosed on May 1, 2006 with colon cancer. I have had two separate surgeries. Then for a year we thought and prayed that we were done. Then last year we found out that my colon cancer had metastasized to my lungs. There is no cure but with the help of many wonderful doctors and chemo and with many answered prayers we seem to be holding our own right now.
The walk down the lane that was lined with supporters and family members was overwhelming. People I knew and recognized and many that I didn’t, clapping and smiling, showing their support filled my heart with hope and joy and so thankful for family members who watch as you pass with tears in their eyes. So many smiling, sincerely caring faces, made me proud to be from Bonham, Texas.
They even recognized the caregivers. So many times we fail to say thank you to our caregivers and they deserve so much more. The people who take care of us are overlooked and never receive enough recognition and praise. We, the victims of this disease, did not ask to be put in this situation but neither did the people who take on the burden of taking care of us. Some of us may never have been in the position to need this much help before. The caregivers are angels that God has sent to each of us and I for one know how very important they are and I thank God for my husband, Harold, everyday.
All the people involved in this event are to be commended! They worked so hard and many long days and night preparing for this event. The booths where people worked all night, the ones who decorated and set up tents for different companies and sponsors with activities to get donations, the people who performed and every single person who had anything at all to do with all of this has a special place in my heart and in the hearts of many others.
There can not be enough thank yous for all of the individuals involved in the preparation and the actual presentation of this event. I am positive that I speak for those who attended and participated in this night when I say, “A million and one 'atta boys' and 'atta girls' to each and everyone of you.”
I hope that in the years to come more people will become involved and receive the blessing that myself and many others received on May 29, 2009. It just happened to be mine and my husband's 44th wedding anniversary and we were so happy to celebrate it with all the wonderful people who were attending this important event. As long as God blesses me with life and the ability to attend I will be there.
Thanks to everyone for “A Night to Remember.”
Betty Brown
