About this blog

I was diagnosed with breast cancer on June 11, 2010. As a result of my treatment, I have lymphedema in my left arm. I draw my strength from the Lord, as well as my family's Scots-Irish heritage. Our Graham's were a tough and scrappy bunch of fighters on the Scottish/English border. They came to America and continued to fight when necessary: in the American Revolution; the Civil War; and my brother is a Captain in the U.S. Army. My ancestors settled this country against all odds. My great-grandmothers on both sides of the family were pioneer women who settled the West. Along with that heritage, and the full armor of God, I am walking the walk and fighting the good fight.

Friday, October 8, 2010

Me? A Charger girl?

Well, sort of.  At least for a day. 

If you didn't already know, I am participating in the American Cancer Society's "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer" walk on October 17th.   I'm part of "Team Cymer" which is the company my dad works for. Cymer is one of the sponsors of the "Making Strides" event.  I'm walking with my mom, dad, sister in law and the rest of the Cymer team.   My fundraising goal is $2,000, and I'm about 57% of the way there.  (If you want to chip in a few bucks, you can click here.) 

Because of this connection, a fun opportunity presented itself to me today.  

The American Cancer Society is partnering with the San Diego Chargers and the NFL to do a special event called "A Crucial Catch" during the game between the Chargers and the New England Patriots on October 24th to highlight the "Making Strides" event as well as Breast Cancer Awareness month.  Before the game,  30 breast cancer survivors will be running through the Charger team tunnel and out of the San Diego Chargers Helmut.  They will stay on the field with the San Diego Charger Girls to welcome the players and participate in the National Anthem.  They will be honorary team captains that day and then have seats for the game.   

Guess what?  I get to be one of the 30 women!  The American Cancer Society offered a spot to Cymer, and Cymer offered it to me.   How cool is that?  

Now for the what ifs.  Hopefully I will feel good on that date.  I have chemo two days earlier on the 22nd.  But I usually feel good on the Sunday, it is Monday when I crash out.  But this is really a once in a lifetime opportunity.  I'd hate to pass it up.  They also don't have tickets for the survivors to bring a guest, so I'll be solo.  But on the other hand, so will the other 29 women.  I suspect that we will have a bond of sisterhood that will transcend any awkwardness that we may have initially as "strangers."  I don't know squat about football.  I've never even been inside Qualcomm stadium! But the game should be fun, regardless. My birthday is on the 26th too.  (Hey-the American Cancer Society calls itself the "official sponsor of birthdays!") 

Why not just throw caution to the wind and go for it?  Life life to its fullest, I say!   Cancer, schmanser! I'm gonna run with the Charger Girls or at least drag myself across the field and have a great time doing it.

Oh-and from the Charger website, it looks like the game will be broadcast on KFMB Channel 8.  DVR it!





3 comments:

  1. Very cool! Kurt's favorite team is the Patriots. We'll be watching and cheering you on!

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  2. What an incredible opportunity! Go Chargers:)GoYOU:) and what a perpect date Oct. 26th your bday and my daughter Hamialey's, she'll be five. I can feel your excitement while planning as you writing. Sounds amazing!! Keep us updated, We r always cheering for you:) I'm sure you will meet some incredible women! Good Luck and God Bless:)

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  3. That is super cool. I will be watching. If you need another Breast Cancer Cheerleader, I'm available!!! Nicole

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