A note from Stefanie: I mentioned to you guys that my new hire was someone dear to my heart. This is a sliver of what makes her the compassionate, inspiring, incredible woman I’ve had the good fortune of watching her become. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, but I’ll let Marissa tell you that part…
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When you go through something unimaginably devastating and heartbreaking you have two choices: stay crushed, defeated and broken, or rise above and use that experience to benefit others. When you’ve become an expert in those feelings and that world, who better to show true empathy and give back than you.
That’s how my family feels about our experience with childhood cancer. My amazing, intelligent, and beautiful little brother, Quinn, passed away following his seven year battle with cancer at the tender age of twelve. After intense grief and time we decided to take the challenge; to try to lighten the burden of this hardship for other families that are in similar positions.
Both my parents and sister are incredible human beings. But, my mom, Suzanne, in particular is a woman who will always amaze me beyond belief. She’s held a position as Balding for Dollars’ coordinator – where, she herself, raised money to shave her head not once, but TWICE. Now, she’s the Oncology Parent-Patient Advocate at Children’s Hospital, and sits on the board for a non-profit organization called British Columbia Childhood Cancer Parent’s Association (BCCCPA). BCCCPA provides financial aid to families with a childhood cancer diagnosis. No parent should have to deal with such a wicked illness, and added financial strain can be crippling. Cancer has reached my family’s inner-circle too many times to count now. Somehow, she’s always the rock, the shoulder to cry on, and the first to jump up and help in any way she can. It’s that kind of strength and compassion that makes me hope that “Warrior Woman” is on her next business card.
I haven’t been strong enough to shave my head – yet! – but one of the ways I like to give back is by being a part of BCCCPA’s biggest fundraiser of the year: The Inside Ride. It’s a fun and easy event to get involved in, and it makes a huge impact. Teams of up to 6 people raise money through individual or team pledges, and then come together for the official event. Each member of the team rides a stationary bike for ten minutes, while the other members cheer them on – and that’s an understatement! This event brings out the inner-child in everyone. Teams wear themed costumes, there’s music blasting, kids are dancing around, and the high-energy drives the event full-steam-ahead.
It’s for the kids after all…
All you need is:
- The drive to raise some money. With social media & technology it’s easier than ever to pull on your friends and families heartstrings (and credit cards).
- A little stamina. Riding the bike doesn’t have to be hard, but there is a prize for highest team-accumulated kms.
- A whole lot of spirit. There are prizes for best costume and highest energy – for those of us with less than stellar stamina.
This years event is Friday October 13th, 2017 at the Cloverdale Rec Centre in Surrey at 7:00pm.
Want to get involved or help?
- Volunteer your time– who doesn’t have 2 hours to spare? Or donate a prize for the event
- Get a team together– The more the merrier! You could win prizes and bragging rights!
- Don’t have the time but want to contribute? Donate to my page: Every Dollar Counts!
*19.01.2018 Update: Donations are now closed. Stayed tuned for the next big BCCCPA event!
Guest Post by Marissa Dunbar – Broad World Social Media & Marketing Coordinator
