The annual Stewart's Caring Place Hope Walk is this Saturday, May 9th. In past walks, hundreds gathered together for a walk outside but because of new social distancing guidelines, it's going to be held differently than in the past. I've included a link at the end of this blog to show you how you can still walk in support of them and never really have to leave your neighborhood.

I'm happy to have hosted this walk for many years with my wife Sue Wilson. Like me, she was widowed from a spouse who had cancer. It is for this reason I'd like to share my personal story about how I became involved with Stewart's. 

Back in 2004 or 2005, I was asked to host a fundraising event for Stewart's Caring Place. I learned their mission and promise is to provide a caring, relaxed environment offering supportive services and programs for individuals and families on their cancer journey...at no cost. I was happy to do the event and learn more about this local non profit organization. Not long after that, I found myself with a personal need when Donna, my late wife, was diagnosed with breast cancer so we called Stewart's.

She was able to utilize the many free programs offered to patients going through treatment. Many non-medical programs designed to restore their overall sense of well being while dealing with the effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Our kids enjoyed some of the family centered programs as well. The kind of programs that restore an overall sense of normalcy to families who have a member going through a serious medical crisis.

It's been almost ten years since we lost Donna but the need for Stewart's Caring Place Cancer Wellness Center continues for countless numbers of our neighbors and friends going through this struggle. Do you know of someone who could benefit from their services? If so, I recommend clicking this LINK and learning more about the wonderful work they do as you embark on this journey yourself or with a loved one.

Thank you for reading.