For years I’ve followed the Women in Blue Campaign and supported friends in their campaigns. This year, I’m honored to support the Cancer Wellness Foundation in a new way, as a Women in Blue nominee myself.
The Cancer Wellness Foundation does far more than most people realize. They provide financial help and practical resources to people facing a cancer diagnosis. This includes nutritional products for those at risk of malnutrition, help with copays, medically prescribed garments, wigs, medications, and even transportation to and from appointments. They are involved in many parts of a patient’s life, helping them navigate the everyday challenges that come with cancer.
As a Woman in Blue, I hope to encourage my friends and community to help me raise much-needed funds so the Cancer Wellness Foundation can continue this important work. I am especially focused on bringing more awareness to colorectal cancer and raising funds to support the Foundation’s efforts in this area, because I am at higher risk due to my family history.
In July 2024, I lost my precious grandmother after a brief battle with stage 4 colon cancer. Then, in January 2026, my great aunt also passed away after a short fight with colon cancer. Both of these strong women likely battled symptoms quietly before they were diagnosed. Routine screenings are so important, because colon cancer often goes unnoticed in its early stages and can be mistaken for other issues. I have also seen friends and neighbors bravely fight colon cancer and win, thanks to advances in medicine. I hope to see more awareness about warning signs and the importance of early detection.
I’ve tried to be proactive with my own colon screenings. I even joked with my gastroenterologist last month that the colonoscopy itself isn’t exactly fun to think about, but the “nap” makes the prep worth it. Sometimes you just have to “get uncomfortable to get comfortable”.
I am very grateful for the opportunity to serve as a 2026 Woman in Blue. My hope is to help raise funds, increase awareness about early detection and colon cancer, and support the Cancer Wellness Foundation as they continue to provide financial help and resources to cancer patients and their families in our community.