PatI woke up on Monday morning, June 9th, pinching myself to see if the whole thing was a dream! Luckily the pictures I took are witnesses, and Terry, Max, and other friends have reminded me many times that June 8th actually happened!

To be so many years post-cancer treatment; to be considered "cured" because I've been without cancer for the magic 5 years (which you and I know are not at all magic!); to feel like my continued feelings of pain, exhaustion, anxiety, and depression are no longer excusable; to feel too frightened to ever call or consider myself a survivor; and then to be called upon and cheered by hundreds of people who understand that I'm still fighting every single day, was the most powerful moment in my life since the whole cancer thing happened.
-Pat Sample, Celebrated Survivor

 

IreneI’ve been searching for the words to thank you for allowing me to participate as an honored survivor in the Fun Fund. This event has been an important part of my journey. It seems fitting that the event occurred as I transitioned out of the harsh chemo part of the treatment and into the more tolerable radiation part. I was able to fully enjoy the event and feel the love of everyone involved. Though I had met other survivors through my cancer wellness class at the health club, meeting this group really touched me in a way that others hadn’t. Maybe it was what we had in common besides cancer, but I was able to confront in the most authentic way the various paths that my cancer could take. I also got to talk to other cancer survivors at the concert, as well as partners of those affected—one that didn’t make it this long.

The event also allowed those in my own circle a concrete way to show their love and support. And many of them got to meet each other. I love being the center of attention, and this allowed me that without “needing” anything as a patient.

So, what I’m saying is that this event has changed my life, even without receiving funds. Thank you for the love you put into it, and for including so many in the endeavor.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
-Irene Stein, Celebrated Survivor

 

JeanWords fail me. The Fun Fund was an experience unique in all the world. You are one who "gets" this "in the moment" thing and saw fit to create a day of special and meaningful moments for each of us to share and celebrate and live. My biggest word "WOW" misses the mark and "thank you" is not nearly enough--but I do.

What an eye-opener and treat to be introduced to Mountain Vista Golf Course and the country roads and views north and east of town. And the incredible talent of Liz Barnez on Avo's family-friendly patio. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

I know you had an incredible team who helped in ways both large and small. Some I know, many I don't. Please thank them for me as well. And the business community was generous indeed.

I am humbled to be among the incredible group of women you chose to honor. I only wish with ALL my heart that my outcome could be their outcome. Someday… Always Love,
-Jean Bice Yule, Celebrated Survivor

 

KateKate wrote to CU SLP alumni website "It was a joyful and positive celebration for six women who survived cancer. People who contributed enjoyed themselves in the process; some played golf, no matter what their level of ability; some rode bikes; and the rest of us (including myself) enjoyed a wonderful concert given by Liz Barnez. Basically, it was a big party. One of the most important lessons that I learned during the process of healing from cancer surgery was this: enjoy life. Don't waste time not enjoying life. If life is not fun sometimes, at the very least, participate in it fully. That is joy. Full participation."
-Kate Ingmundsen, Celebrated Survivor

 

Visit "SLPs In Touch" Web Site

 

 

JanNot everyone has the opportunity in their life time to know that so many people care for them....The Fun Fund did just that for us. To let us know that we are special and loved by so many people. Thank you to our families and friends for taking the time out of your busy lives to share this special day with us!

There are few people in this world that take the time to let others know how much they mean to them... Diana is one of those special people that has an idea and lets the wind take it to the highest peak, and boy, she did just that...... She will always be remembered for her genuine caring and love that she has for others.....Thank you for so much!!!!!

Many thanks to the great team that helped her  pull this event off. You all are great people with a lot of love in your hearts!!!

To the survivors.... we are not alone

May you all find Peace
-Jan Florea, Celebrated Survivor

 

AnnI am still scratching my head wondering where all this support and generosity came from. There are so many fund raisers out there - so many people need help from tornados and floods and the general economy. And donations to the Fun Fund weren't even tax-deductible. This just blows my mind. Diana and her "band of merry and tireless" friends pulled together quite a group of sponsors and ran a well-organized FUN event. What a day. AND I got to know some pretty amazing cancer-sisters and their families. My emotions ranged from joy, gratitude, love, exhaustion, guilt, appreciation, you name it. What I recall mostly from the event was gratitude and love. I am so fortunate.

Every single penny received will be spent consciously. Because of the generosity of friends (and people I don't even know) I will be able to pay (and pay back) my medical providers for their valuable services, buy some supplements, participate in a yoga weekend in Estes Park (September), do something for my Kimmie, and save a bit for an emergency.

Every day in my meditations I say a quiet Thank You. Someday I will be able to pay it forward. The kindness of others is precious. I think of this with every step through my current treatments, work and daily routines.


With love and gratitude,

-Ann Pendley, Celebrated Survivor