Cancer Education, Advocacy & News Blog

The Last Post on this Blog: Moving to a new blog

2010-01-26T12:42:00.001-05:00

This is the offical last post on this blog. I have created a new blog which will cover a wide range of topics and not just cancer. My efforts to support LIVESTRONG and other great cancer fighting organizations will be ongoing. I just could not manage 4 different blogs so I have consolidated and now I use wordpress. I have found wordpress to be a much better blog interface with much more options.

Please stop by to see my new blog http://brianpdowd.wordpress.com/

LIVESTRONG!

GoodSearch.com - A great, unique and easy way of raising funds for your favorite charity

2010-01-24T11:30:00.003-05:00

Take a few minutes to check our GoodSearch.com http://www.goodsearch.com

"Give to charity just by searching the internet" ~ ABC NEWS

From GoodSearch.com website: "We all have a cause we care about - whether it's finding a cure for cancer, saving the environment, finding homes for abandoned pets or so many other worthwhile endeavors. But what we don't all have is the time or money to support these efforts as much as we'd like. So, what if we could raise money for our favorite charities and schools by doing something we do every day — searching the Internet?

That's the question Ken Ramberg (the former founder of JOBTRAK, now a division of Monster.com) and JJ Ramberg (an MSNBC anchor and the former Director of Marketing at Cooking.com) asked themselves a few years ago. After realizing what a fraction of the $8 billion generated annually by search engine advertisers could do if it were directed towards organizations trying to make the world a better place, they launched GoodSearch in 2005.

GoodSearch is a search engine which donates 50-percent of its revenue to the charities and schools designated by its users. It's a simple and compelling concept. You use GoodSearch exactly as you would any other search engine. Because it's powered by Yahoo!, you get proven search results. The money GoodSearch donates to your cause comes from its advertisers — the users and the organizations do not spend a dime!

In 2007, GoodSearch was expanded to include GoodShop, an online shopping mall of world-class merchants dedicated to helping fund worthy causes across the country. Each purchase made via the GoodShop mall results in a donation to the user's designated charity or school – averaging approximately 3% of the sale, but going up to 20% or even more.

Ken and JJ wanted to create a means to support charities so that people would say, "Why wouldn't you do it?" That's what GoodSearch does. Since it doesn't cost anything and you get proven search results, there's no reason not to use it!

GoodSearch is dedicated to Ken and JJ's mother, who passed away from cancer and who taught them both that by working together with dogged dedication, we can really make this world a better place."

Fight for preemies in honor of Avery Carmella Eck'Art

2010-01-23T11:01:00.002-05:00

Though I use this blog to help fight cancer I always try to help other great causes when I have a chance. Today I am asking you to please donate to March of Dimes in honor of Avery Carmella Eck'Art. Avery was born premature (25 weeks) and weighed 1lb 1oz on January 19th. Avery is a miracle and has already shown to be one heck of a fighter.

Avery’s family are dear friends and it would mean the world to all of us to see funds raised in honor of Avery. Any amount is a good amount. I started us off with $100 yesterday at around 12pm and right now we are at $965. Let’s see how much we can raise for such a great cause!

March of Dimes mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

http://www.marchofdimes.com/prematurity/b_new.asp?band_id=58119

Thank you for supporting the March of Dimes and Avery.

LIVESTRONG!

LIVESTRONG Challenge 2010 Now Open - ONLY $35

2009-12-03T23:25:00.001-05:00

Register for Team Down One at http://teamdownone.com

Don’t miss your chance to register for Philly for ONLY $35. This year the LAF will not conduct random discounts but rather have established registration windows which provide a staggered price break in the months leading up to the event. The registration fee below will be effective until December 31, 2009 and then it will readjust to $45.

In Philly, in order to accommodate a larger number of participants, they will move the walk/run to Saturday and the ride to Sunday. Here are the details for registration. Please take note there are Virtual Challenge spots at No Fee. Virtual participants can register, join a team, fundraise and receive incentives for the LIVESTRONG Challenge, but they will not be participating in the actual event. *In order to receive a t-shirt and water bottle, a minimum of $50 must be raised.*

Registration Options:
•5k Run/Walk: $35.00
•10K Run/Walk: $35.00
•10 Mile Ride: $35.00
•20 Mile Ride: $35.00
•45 Mile Ride: $35.00
•70 Mile Ride: $35.00
•100 Mile Ride: $35.00
•5K Run/Walk and 10 mile Ride participation: $75.00
•5K Run/Walk and 20 mile Ride participation: $75.00
•5K Run/Walk and 45 mile Ride participation: $75.00
•5K Run/Walk and 70 mile Ride Participation: $75.00
•5K Run/Walk and 100 mile Ride Participation: $75.00
•10K Run/Walk and 10 mile Ride participation: $75.00
•10K Run/Walk and 20 mile Ride participation: $75.00
•10K Run/Walk and 45 mile Ride participation: $75.00
•10K Run/Walk and 70 mile Ride Participation: $75.00
•10K Run/Walk and 100 mile Ride Participation: $75.00

LIVESTRONG!

Support our Troops by Saying Thanks!

2009-11-17T10:47:00.000-05:00

Please keep our troops in your hearts and prayers. Let's Say Thanks by sending them a card http://www.letssaythanks.com/

The mission of Let's Say Thanks is to provide a way for individuals across the country to recognize U.S. troops stationed overseas. By submitting a message through this site you have the opportunity to send a free personalized postcard greeting to deployed servicemen and women.

The postcards, depicting patriotic scenes and hometown images, were selected from a pool of entries from children across the country.

All you have to do is click on your favorite design and either select the message that best expresses your sentiment or draft a personal note. The postcards are then printed on the Xerox iGen3® Digital Production Press and mailed in care packages by military support organization Give2TheTroops®.

LAF Update on Movember: Week One

2009-11-06T10:39:00.002-05:00

Lance Armstrong Foundation (LIVESTRONG) staffer Chris Brewer and Dr. Adam Clark discuss Movember and men's health.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMvsw6aNEgw

Follow @drewfromtv on Twitter - your follow represents $1

2009-10-17T09:19:00.001-04:00

Great and very easy way for you to help donate to the LAF without you spending a dime. Start a twitter( http://twitter.com) account and follow @drewfromtv (Drew Carey)

Each follower will represent $1 and he will donate $1Million to The Lance Armstrong Foundation (LIVESTRONG) if we get his followers up to 1Million by Dec 31 2009. Currently at $102K!

Come on and start an account. Remember this cost nothing, takes all of 1-2 minutes of your time and gives a donation to the LAF. Please share this with your family and friends.

LIVESTRONG!

Media Advisory: “Cocktails for a Cause” LIVESTRONG DAY EVENT

2009-09-18T13:15:00.001-04:00

For Immediate Release
September 18, 2009

For more information:
Lori Ditzel
ceeotters@comcast.net

“Cocktails for a Cause”
LIVESTRONG DAY EVENT

Ocean County Resident Holds Local Event to Benefit The
Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation and The Lance Armstrong Foundation

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ – On Friday night, October 2, Lori Ditzel will hold “Cocktails for a Cause” LIVESTRONG Day event at The Beach Bar in Seaside Heights, NJ. LIVESTRONG Day is the Lance Armstrong Foundation's one-day initiative to unite people affected by cancer in raising awareness of cancer issues in communities across the country.

This year’s event, all money raised will be donated to The Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation and the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

“We encourage everyone to WEAR-YELLOW. If you already have a LIVESTRONG t-shirt wear it, if you do not have LIVESTRONG t-shirt and would like to purchase one or more please visit http://www.store-laf.org/ or you can always just WEAR YELLOW. Any yellow shirt will work,” said Lori Ditzel, event organizer.

The event will start at 5:00 p.m. at The Beach Bar, located at 28 Boardwalk Seaside Heights, NJ 08751. The event will have free admission, free food, specials on drinks, auction items, 50/50 and Door Prizes. There will be a remembrance wall to sign and honor those fighting cancer or in memory of someone you have lost to cancer and will also create a giant yellow chain around the bar. Those who attend are encouraged to make a donation to benefit the Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation and the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

“Cancer has affected my family. My father, a nonsmoker, has had Non-Hodgkin lymphoma for 23 yrs and has recently been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. It’s hard to just sit by and just watch. I felt I needed to do something. This is my something. While I couldn't take a treatment for my father or fight his disease for him I can still fight cancer by raising awareness to this terrible disease,” said Ditzel. “LIVESTRONG Day is the perfect platform to raise awareness, to show people who are fighting cancer that you care, and to fight for a change in health care.”

Over 1000 local LIVESTRONG Day events will be held in communities across the country to celebrate and support cancer survivors and their loved ones. To learn more about LIVESTRONG Day, visit www.livestrong.org/livestrongday.

“I am proud to be raising funds and awareness for the Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation and the Lance Armstrong Foundation,” Ditzel said.

About the Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation
The Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation, a non-profit organization, raises funds that are vital to advancing the research, treatment, education and prevention programs of The Cancer Institute of New Jersey. All fundraising is conducted to build enduring partnerships and create goodwill while adhering to the highest ethical and professional standards. To learn more about The Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation http://www.cinjfoundation.org.

About the Lance Armstrong Foundation
The Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) unites people to fight cancer. The LAF believes that unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything. The LAF provides the practical information and tools people battling cancer need to live life on their own terms. The LAF also takes aim at the gaps between what is known and what is done to prevent death and suffering due to cancer. We engage with and advocate for the public at large to pursue an agenda focused on prevention, ensuring access to screening and care, investment in research, and improving the quality of life for people affected by cancer. Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, the LAF is located in Austin, Texas. To learn more about the Lance Armstrong Foundation, visit http://www.livestrong.org.

# # #

Help support the fight against cancer at "Cocktails for A Cause" benefiting the Cancer Institute of New Jersey and the Lance Armstrong Foundation

2009-09-03T14:54:00.003-04:00

EVENT: "Cocktails for A Cause"

All proceeds will go to the Cancer Institute of New Jersey and the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

ADMISSION: FREE

AT THIS EVENT: We will have FREE food and SPECIALS on drinks, A remembrance wall to sign to honor those fighting cancer or in memory of someone you lost to cancer, Bracelet links to create a GIANT yellow chain around the bar, LIVESTRONG wristbands will be given to all who make a donation, 50/50 and Door Prizes.

WHAT TO WEAR: WEAR YELLOW! If you already have LIVESTRONG t-shirts wear it, if you do not have LIVESTRONG t-shirt and would like to purchase one or more please visit http://www.store-laf.org/ or you can always just WEAR YELLOW - ANY yellow shirt will work.

WHY: LIVESTRONG Day is the Lance Armstrong Foundation's one-day initiative to unite people affected by cancer in raising awareness of cancer issues on a global level and in communities across the country. We have all been affected by cancer. Let's stand up together and make a difference!

WHEN: LIVESTRONG Day is Friday October 2, 2009 - 5:00PM-9:00PM

WHERE: The Beach Bar is located at 28 Boardwalk Seaside Heights, NJ 08751

CONTACT: For more information, contact Lori at Lori_Ditzel@horizonblue.com

LIVESTRONG!

Help Raise Awareness Against Domestic Violence

2009-08-28T09:35:00.003-04:00

WHAT: Friends of Lisa (Letizia) Zindell have organized a walk on the Manasquan Reservoir in Howell to raise awareness against Domestic Violence (DV) Also, purple ribbon magnets were ordered in memory of Lisa to promote DV awareness. They will be sold for $2.00 each.

WHY: In Memory of Lisa (Letizia) Zindell. Lisa was murdered by her ex-fiance who was stalking and harassing her after she cancelled their June 21, 2009 wedding. Her story is bittersweet, tragic and must be told. For those who are not aware of what happened to Lisa please click go to her Facebook group http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=244296110190

WHEN: Sunday, August 30, 2009 11:00am - 2:00pm

WHERE: Manasquan Reservoir 311 Windeler Road Howell, NJ

Ocean County NJ LIVESTRONG Day Event - "Cocktails for A Cause"

2009-08-26T09:57:00.002-04:00

EVENT: LIVESTRONG Day Event in Ocean County "Cocktails for A Cause." We will have FREE food, SPECIALS on drinks, a remembrance wall to sign to honor those fighting cancer or in memory of someone you lost to cancer, bracelet links to create a GIANT yellow chain around the bar. LIVESTRONG wristbands to everyone that makes a donation. More to come soon!

WHAT TO WEAR: WEAR YELLOW! If you already have LIVESTRONG t-shirts wear it, if you do not have LIVESTRONG t-shirt and would like to purchase one or more please visit http://www.store-laf.org/ or you can always just WEAR YELLOW - ANY yellow shirt will work.

WHY: LIVESTRONG Day is the Lance Armstrong Foundation's one-day initiative to unite people affected by cancer in raising awareness of cancer issues on a global level and in communities across the country. We have all been affected by cancer. Let's stand up together and make a difference!

WHEN: LIVESTRONG Day is October 2, 2009

WHERE: The Beach Bar is located at 28 Boardwalk Seaside Heights, NJ 08751

CONTACT: For more information, contact Lori at Lori_Ditzel@horizonblue.com

WHY SUPPORT LIVESTRONG? VIEW THE BELOW VIDEO!

LIVESTRONG!

LIVESTRONG Challenge Philadelphia is right around the corner

2009-08-04T16:11:00.002-04:00

The LIVESTRONG Challenge Philadelphia is right around the corner (August 23, 2009.) Please remember to recruit your friends and family to join you on Team Down One. We need their help to reach our fundraising goal $30,000. Also do not forget to fundraise. This year has been difficult with the economy and people losing their jobs however we all know cancer will not stop so we should ask around. Even during down times people will surprise you. Do not be afraid to ask! Any amount is a good amount. Have them visit http://teamdownone.com to sign up for the team or donate!

Please remember the LIVESTRONG Challenge is held at Montgomery County Community College 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422.

To secure the LIVESTRONG Challenge group rate, please reserve your rooms through On the Mark Travel by calling (512) 794-8800 or toll free at (800) 618-6275. Lots of hotels are booked so here are the remaining with open spots with LAF rates.

Residence Inn
1110 Bethlehem Pike
North Wales, PA 19454

Holiday Inn
432 Pennsylvania Ave
Ft. Washington, PA 19034

Hampton Inn
2055 Chemical Road
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462

Traffic Sunday morning will not be a problem until you get within 3 miles from the event. Then it will be bumper to bumper. We encourage everyone who is not staying over in a hotel to arrive at 6:30AM to allow for the delays with parking, etc. Remember the event starts at 7:00AM. Please visit http://www.livestrongchallenge.org to get all the information you require. Please leave time to get through the traffic.

If you plan on attending please take my cell phone number (email me and i will send it to you dowood27@comcast.net) so we can meet up. We will be near the starting line for the walk/run participants. If you are not planning on attending please let me know.

Your support is very important to me and my family so THANK YOU! THANK YOU for picking a fight with cancer and helping us make a difference.

LIVESTRONG!

Brian Dowd

Health Care Reform Opinion

2009-07-21T17:09:00.002-04:00

I am glad that Health Care Reform is actively being discussed, but I do not like to hear some of what has come out lately. I get sick of hearing how Senators are willing to pass the most recent Health Care Reform without reading it. Decisions, as critical as Health Care Reform, should not be made on a persons opinion, news media and what he/she "thought" was in the Bill.

As a cancer survivor I know how the costs are too high, we have limited options and how we cannot continue to turn anyone away. Everyone deserves proper care. We have to find a way to serve everyone with the best medical attention possible to help in areas of education, prevention, treatments, surgery, etc.

We need Health Care! It should not be hard to get a team of people (from both sides) to work full-time on Health Care and create a point-by-point action plan and show what each action will deliver and the possible negative impacts. I know getting both sides together is difficult, but not impossible. A challenge YES, but never impossible! Too many excuses have been made over the years. It is time to take this topic serious and make an intelligent decision for change.

I am optimist so I have HOPE that something will get worked out and be the right choice. What do you think will happen?

LIVESTRONG!

Cancer fundraiser for Rene (YECKLEY) Wiercinski

2009-06-12T11:42:00.000-04:00

Event: “Benefit for Renee Wiercinski Fund” This is a cancer fundraiser for Rene Wiercinski and her family to help cover her medical expenses while fighting cancer.

Date: Thursday, June 25, 2009

Time: 4:00 pm

Location: The Beach Bar at Trump Plaza in Atlantic City, NJ

Entertainment: Live music

Activities/Prizes: Auction and door prizes. One door prize of a weekend stay in a 6 million dollar beach front house in Ocean City, NJ

Tickets: $20.00 donation per ticket which includes FOOD & BEER. Please purchase ticket in advance by mailing your donation to 180 Riptide Ave. Manahawkin, New Jersey 08050 payable to "Benefit for Renee Wiercinski Fund"

If you cannot attend: Please consider giving a generous donation by mailing your donation to 180 Riptide Ave. Manahawkin, New Jersey 08050 payable to "Benefit for Renee Wiercinski Fund"

San Francisco Giants To Honor Have a Ball Foundation

2009-05-19T22:54:00.000-04:00

Date: Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Time: 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: San Francisco, CA
Street: 24 Willie Mays Plaza
City/Town: South San Francisco, CA

The Have a Ball Foundation will be honored in a Pre-Game Ceremony at Home Plate to promote the upcoming "Livestrong Challenge" in San Jose. As the back-to-back Champion of the Livestrong Challenge for the Western U.S. (Portland '07 & San Jose '08) the Have a Ball Foundation's story will be presented.

Founder of the Have a Ball Foundation Bob Hammer, along with his wife Kim, Daughter Shayna and Son Josh will present a check to Director of Gift Planning for the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Ron Kolenic, for $75,000.00 on Tuesday May 26th before the Giants take the field.

The Have a Ball Foundation will also be on hand at the Giants "Community Desk". Volunteers from both the Lance Armstrong Foundation and the Have a Ball Foundation will be on hand to hand out Have a Ball/Livestrong Tote Bags as well as information on both the Have a Ball Foundation and the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

http://www.haveaballgolf.com/

Two Cancer fighting Events in New Jersey

2009-05-07T16:10:00.001-04:00

On June 14th in Spring Lake, NJ the Coastal Jersey Parrot Head Club will be hosting “Colors of Cancer” fundraiser at Doolans in Spring Lake, NJ to benefit - The Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ) - to raise much needed monies for all Cancers. Please visit their website for more information http://cjphc.org

The 2nd annual Run-Ride-Walk at New Jersey Motorsports Park, benefiting the Lance Armstrong and South Jersey Healthcare Foundations is scheduled for July 25th, 2009. Please visit their website for more information http://www.njmp.com/runridewalk/

I encourage you to check out these events and try to attend.

LIVESTRONG!

A Little Late

2009-04-30T12:23:00.003-04:00

I just realized that I did not post here (but twittered it) about my blood test results. On April 21st I got the call from my doctor that all tests came back negative. Though I was confident I was OK (I have not seen Dr. Dara since July 2006) I still thought about the "what if?" Yeah, sounds crazy, but if you recieve an offical letter from the Ocean County Health Department you should take it seriously, which I did.

Read about the Dr. Dara problem: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gpXvXi9biW7uT0z-fKKGdSKam3lgD97B8SPO0

All of the Dr. Dara drama is over for me, but not for 2800 other people. I hope a pray all of them are OK as we should never be put in these situations do to someones incompetence.

I now move on and continue a bigger fight. The fight against cancer! I hope everyone can join me. Donate or join Team Down One today http://teamdownone.com/.

LIVESTRONG!

Brian

Economic conditions & cancer

2009-04-21T14:40:00.003-04:00

The current economic conditions have directly affected everyone, but unfortunatley so has cancer. Cancer kills more people every year than AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria combined. That is a scary fact. Please consider making a donation to help Team Down One reach our goal of $30,000.

Got $10, $15, $20 or more...any amount is a good amount to donate. Also do not be shy to send this information to your family and friends. We need more people to help us fight cancer by donating at http://teamdownone.com

Thank you!

LIVESTRONG!

Interesting last few weeks

2009-04-20T15:59:00.003-04:00

I can say the last few weeks have been a bit hectic. I have been to Poland and Montreal for work giving presentations and sitting in on our (Tata Communications) Sales Kick-Off conferences. It was nice to travel to Poland since I have never previously been there, but it was great to come home to the family.

While I was in Poland I received a call from my wife which had some bad news. It turns out my former oncologist, Dr. Parvez Dara, did not know how to manage his office and let things get real bad over there.

I received an official letter from the Ocean County Health Department telling me of problems they found at Dr. Dara’s office. The Ocean County Health Department said five cases of hepatitis B were reported to it and the state Department of Health and Senior Services in late February. All of the infected people were patients of Dr. Dara. It turns out I was one of the 2800 people who received this letter urging us to be tested for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, hepatitis C and hepatitis B.

OK, take a step back from read this and ask yourself “what would I do?” I was in Poland with nothing to do. I could not come home to take tests, but I did recall the nurses at the time I was there (mid-June 2006) did in fact take the needles they used on me out of properly wrapped bag and since that time I have had multiple blood tests done on me for my cancer that I was confident I was OK. However, you do not stop thinking about how messed up the situation really is.

I consider myself a good judge of people. I did not like Dr. Dara the first time I met him. Not because of something he said, but when I sat in his office he barely looked at me and Kristy. He was looking 95% of the time at his laptop and not a me. That is a sign that he could care less. That stuck with me and I have never gone back to see him. Though I will admit that I did call him several times as my urologist, Dr. Martin Schor, encouraged me to go back and have my follow ups with Dr. Dara. The problem was his office would never answer the phone and when the actually did pick up they would have me on hold for 10+ minutes and never come back.

I finally gave up and told Dr. Schor he is my man for check ups and he agreed. Dr. Schor has been giving me my regular 4-6 month checks ups ever since. He is simple the best doctor!!

I did have blood work done out of Dr. Dara’s office when I was there. I do not believe I am at risk because what I have heard from my primary doctor, Dr. Ruben Crisital, is the people who saw Dr. Dara for chemo are the ones at high risk. Each of the 5 apprently recieved chemo from him, which I did not. I have 4.5 weeks of radiation, but no chemo.

I had all my blood work the OCHD requested done this past Friday afternoon and I should know soon the results. The results have to get sent to the Ocean County Health Department so they can check my name off their list.

I cannot forgive such extreme incompetence by Dr. Dara. I hope and pray that man never gets to serve as a doctor anywhere for the rest of his life. I mean come on; they found several blood stains on the floor….that is unacceptable. Last week, the state Board of Medical Examiners suspended Dara's medical license indefinitely after investigators said there was evidence of unsterile practices and procedures in his office.

Dr. Dara lost control of his office and that should never happen. You cannot make excuses for lack of management control. If you cannot properly support your patients then you need to turn some or all away until you can support them.

What is shocking to me is the fact some of his patients are supporting him. Though some or even the majority might have good things to say that does not take away the fact Dr. Dara was a horrible office manager and the health department found so many issues that they were compelled to suspend him. I, for one, am glad he is suspended. He never said a bad thing to me and he treated my grandfather for 17+ years for Leukemia CLL and my grandparents loved him. However, just because a person is nice to you does not mean he/she does everything the right way. I am sure some people thought Jeffrey Dahmer was also nice. I think you get my point.

As I waited in the lobby to get my blood work on Friday an older man sat next to me with the same letter I got from the Ocean County Health Department. I looked over at him and said I was in the same boat as him. He said and I quote, “I cannot believe they are making such a big deal out of all this. Dr. Dara is getting a rail-roaded.”

I took a deep breath and kept my opinion to myself, but I was thinking of slapping this moron on the back of the head to try and knock some sense into him. HELLO, he was getting blood work as there is a chance he could have been infected.

I hope people stop making excuses and be thankful Dr. Dara was caught. If by some chance they allow Dr. Dara to practice again one would have to assume he would have gotten a wake up call and would run a tighter ship.

Now I sit and wait to hear that all tests came back negative.

LIVESTRONG!

Apply to attend the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit

2009-04-10T14:29:00.000-04:00

A message from the Lance Armstrong foundation:

We need your help to find extraordinary cancer leaders and social entrepreneurs from around the world to make a commitment (http://www.livestrong.org/global) to fight cancer and apply to attend the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit.

What kind of person are we looking for?

- Someone who has already had a major impact but is now ready to take their efforts to the next level
- Someone with a clear plan to scale up their efforts to a regional, national or even international level
- Someone who would benefit from sharing experiences and making connections with other global cancer leaders

We're particularly interested in people who have launched major initiatives as social entrepreneurs, outside of large, established organizations.

If you are such a person, or know someone who is, we'd love to hear from you. Make a commitment to fight cancer and apply to attend the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit in Dublin, Ireland, on August 24-26, 2009.

Please spread the word and forward to other cancer leaders. Join us in the global fight against cancer.

http://www.livestrong.org/global

LIVESTRONG,
Lance Armstrong Foundation

Global Commitment to Fight Cancer

2009-03-26T12:42:00.001-04:00

Cancer; 28 million people are living with cancer and this year, 8 million will die from it. We are asking for commitments from NGO's, world leaders and individuals to make cancer a global priority.

Check out the new LAF video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ey92B55PYZk

ARE YOU READY TO CHALLENGE CANCER?

2009-03-19T15:32:00.001-04:00

ARE YOU READY TO CHALLENGE CANCER? Today the Lance Armstrong Foundation came out with a 50% discount for the 2009 LIVESTRONG Challenge Philly on August 23. The registration price is now only $25. You can Join the Fight. Take the Challenge. Register today or if you cannot participate please consider making a donation to help us reach our goal of raising $30,000 for the 2009 LIVESTRONG Challenge Philly at http://teamdownone.com/.

Between now and Saturday, March 21, recruit your family, friends, and coworkers to join you on Team Down One at this year’s LIVESTRONG Challenge Philly on August 23 for ONLY $25 when you enter PHILLY09 in the registration discount field. Don’t miss this great opportunity to become part of a record breaking event full of excitement and empowerment in the fight against cancer.

Our mission is to raise funds for the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) supporting critical programs for cancer research, prevention, survivorship, clinical trials and one day a cure. We believe that we can be successful, raise funds and awareness while having FUN.

We are entering our 3rd year of participation in the LIVESTRONG Challenge in Philadelphia. The LIVESTRONG Challenge is the LAF’s signature fundraising event. The walk/run event is a 5K and there are bike events for 10, 20, 40, 70 or 90/100 miles. We have raised over $44,000 since February 2007 to benefit the LAF.

This year we will have several people participating in the 5K as walkers and runners as well as the 10, 20, 40 and 90 mile rides.

Join us to make a difference!

LIVESTRONG!

What would you say to cancer, given the chance?

2009-03-16T08:55:00.001-04:00

If you are unable to see the video click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feXOVkDp-Rw

The Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation

2009-03-11T19:08:00.000-04:00

The Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of testicular cancer and the need for regular self-examination. Our goal is to increase early detection of testicular cancer. We seek to ensure that young men are aware of the disease and have the information they need to conduct regular self-examinations, recognize possible warning signs, and seek medical help without embarrassment or fear of stigmatization.

The Foundation was established in memory of Sean Kimerling, the Emmy Award-winning anchor of CW11 sports and pre-game announcer for the New York Mets. Sean died from testicular cancer on September 9, 2003. He was only 37.

Sean fought a brief, intense battle with cancer. He was unaware of his cancer until very late, when severe back pain (a frequent symptom of later-stage testicular cancer) finally sent him to the doctor. He was a young, healthy, vibrant man, intelligent and kind, and an extremely talented sportscaster, quickly rising to the pinnacle of his field. In the starkest sense, his life was cut short in its prime.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men between the ages of 15 and 40. It also has one of the highest cure rates of all cancers, with a survival rate over 95 percent, if detected and treated early. Too often, young men, like Sean, are not aware they have TC until it has spread throughout their body, greatly complicating treatment and their chances of survival.

The Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in New York City.

For more information or to make a donation, please contact us at: Sean Kimerling Testicular Cancer Foundation29 Broadway, Suite 1412New York , NY 10006 (212) 986-0892, ext. 5 or visit http://www.seankimerling.org

The foundation has new and exciting programs available to help fight TC. Below are a few links.

http://www.seankimerling.org/downloads/pdfs/Kimerling_Brochure_final.pdf

http://www.seankimerling.org/pages/programs/programs_showercard.html

http://www.seankimerling.org/pages/programs/programs-materials.html

http://www.seankimerling.org/pages/programs/programs-resourcekit.html

Ocean County 4 year old battling Lymphoblastic Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

2009-02-25T11:02:00.000-05:00

Tyson Manni is a 4 year old battling Lymphoblastic Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and is undergoing intensive treatment at the Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

March 1, 2009 Team Tyson will be holding a benefit luncheon and gift auction for Tyson Manni at Hemingways Café in Seaside Heights, NJ.

Check out http://www.teamtyson.org/ for more details!

Obama "Health care reform cant be put on hold"

2009-02-25T10:53:00.000-05:00

LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit to be held in Dublin, Ireland in August

2009-02-22T19:17:00.000-05:00

Press Release from the LAF

Lance Armstrong encourages world leaders, cancer organizations and advocates to commit to making cancer a global priority

San Diego, CA – February 22, 2009 - The Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) announced today that the premiere LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit will take place Aug. 24-26, 2009 in Dublin, Ireland immediately following LAF founder and chairman, cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong's participation in the Tour of Ireland, Aug. 19-23. As the landmark event of the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Campaign, the Summit will make the case for acting urgently to address the global cancer burden and introduce new commitments to cancer control by bringing together world leaders, corporations, non-governmental organizations and advocates in an unprecedented show of solidarity. The announcement comes on the final day of the Amgen Tour of California, where Armstrong was competing in his second race in his return to professional cycling and against the worldwide threat of cancer.

"Unless we act on a global level, cancer will be the leading cause of death by 2010," said Armstrong. "Our goal is to be the catalyst that brings everyone together to fight cancer—from survivors, like me, to world leaders and policymakers who must commit completely to the effort to avoid a public health catastrophe. The Summit provides an invaluable opportunity to stand up for the 28 million cancer survivors worldwide and to create a unified effort to control cancer through new commitments to action."

In a separate announcement in Dublin, Ireland's Minister for Health, Mary Harney said Ireland was very pleased to welcome the Summit to Dublin in August. "Cancer Control is a top priority for the Irish Government. The themes of the Summit fit well with our new national Cancer Control Strategy and anti-tobacco initiatives we have taken, such as the ban on smoking in the workplace. We wish the Summit and the Lance Armstrong Foundation every success and we will be happy to welcome all international delegates to Ireland."

Irish Cancer Society CEO John McCormack said, "We still have a lot to do in the fight against cancer. By 2020, it is estimated there will be more than 40,000 new cases of cancer diagnosed in Ireland. We can and must act to reduce the rate of preventable cancer and this summit gives us the opportunity to increase cancer awareness and take actions which will save lives."

Darach McQuaid, Project Director for the Tour of Ireland, said, "The global sports icon that is Lance Armstrong last raced in Ireland in the Tour of Ireland in 1992. This August 19-23 the Tour of Ireland could not be more proud than to have Lance Armstrong riding once again on Irish roads in the lead up to his Global Cancer Summit in Dublin. The massive, positive public reaction to his comeback to the sport in Australia in January and California in February indicate that by the time Lance arrives in Ireland next August, the interest levels will be at fever pitch. I am confident that we can provide Lance with a challenging course and via our global broadcast, promote his cancer message in over 140 television markets around the world."

Already, world leaders are indicating their intent to send high-level representation and make commitments. Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and former U.S. President Bill Clinton are included in the early list of leaders expressing support. The LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Campaign made immediate progress when it launched in Australia this January with several new commitments to cancer control from the Australian government and NGOs. In addition, conversations are ongoing with the Kingdom of Jordan to announce a substantial new commitment in that country. These commitments and others will be featured at the Summit in Dublin.

"I hope a decade from now we can look back on this campaign and see that there truly is a global cancer movement – one that has adequately funded cancer research, cut the death rate to zero and maximized the amount of prevention and education and advocacy that can be done," said Clinton. "And that it has helped people to live with and overcome cancer with the support they need."

The primary purpose of the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit is to bring together world leaders to secure commitments to make cancer a global priority. The secondary purpose is to build a global grassroots advocacy movement to influence global action in the fight against cancer. Participation in the Summit is by invitation only. LAF has outlined a commitment process that all world leaders and representatives from non-governmental organizations and corporations are required to complete to be eligible for invitation. For information about the commitment process, visit www.LIVESTRONG.org.

Following its success in Australia and California, the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Campaign will head to Mexico in late February and then on to Europe for the Giro d'Italia (May 9-31), the Tour de France (July 4-26), the Tour of Ireland (Aug. 19-23) and the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit in Ireland (Aug. 24-26), as well as other locations to be announced soon. For more information on the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Campaign, please visit www.LIVESTRONGblog.org.

About the Lance Armstrong Foundation
At the Lance Armstrong Foundation, we fight for the 28 million people around the world living with cancer today. There can be – and should be – life after cancer for more people. That's why we kick in at the moment of diagnosis, giving people the resources and support they need to fight cancer head-on. We find innovative ways to raise awareness, fund research and end the stigma about cancer that many survivors face. We connect people and communities to drive social change, and we call for state, national and world leaders to help fight this disease. Anyone anywhere can join our fight against cancer. Join us at www.LIVESTRONG.org.

Pitts Family Fundraiser

2009-02-20T12:31:00.000-05:00

A second tragedy has family in need of help. The Pitts family, who lost their father, Walter Joe Pitts, in October from liver cancer also lost mother Eileen Pitts Wednesday night. She was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer in November.

Sarah Pitts, 26, said after her mother was diagnosed with cancer, they thought she was going to be OK because her treatments were going well. However, Eileen wound up getting MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus: antibiotic-resistant staph infection).

The fundraiser will be held Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hemingway's, 612 Boulevard, Seaside Heights. It includes a buffet, DJ, cash bar, gift auction and 50/50 raffle for a $25 donation in advance or $30 at the door. Call (732) 581-6265 or (609) 223-2306 to purchase tickets.

Lance Armstrong life's summary (Pain is temporary)

2009-02-15T10:49:00.000-05:00

Lance Armstrong, an inspiration for everyone, never give up! The song is "Signal Fire" by Snow Patrol. If you cannot view this video you can check it out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wb2miXY5Y9s

Prepare to get inspired

2009-02-10T16:04:00.000-05:00

Sean Swarmer: 1st cancer survivor to summit Everest and seven other summits, author: "How I beat Cancer and reached the top of the World"

February 21st fundraiser at Hemingway's in Seaside Hts to help Ocean County family

2009-02-07T11:53:00.003-05:00

Kristy read about this in the paper yesterday. We will be attending. Please join us to help the Pitts family while they fight cancer.

THE CAUSE: The Pitts family of Brick, NJ has been devastated by cancer in the last year. Last October the Pitts family lost Walter Joe Pitts from liver cancer and recently his wife, Eileen, has been diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer. This fundraiser is held to help raise money for Eileen's medical expenses while going through chemotherapy.

TIME/DATE: 4:00PM - 7:00PM February 21, 2009

LOCATION: "Hemingway's Cafe" 612 Boulevard Seaside Hts, NJ

DONATION: A $25 donation in advance will include a buffet dinner of either pasta, chicken or sirloin. There will be a 50/50 raffle, a chance auction, DJ and dancing. There will be a cash bar.

CONTACT: To purchase tickets in advance please call (732)581-6265, (609)223-2306 or (908)330-6349. If you cannot purchase in advance there will be a $30 donation at the door.

Support a friends MS Walk fundraising efforts

2009-02-06T10:01:00.002-05:00

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that hits home. My grandmother passed away in 1980 after battling MS for many years. My mother has been living with MS. I have seen how horrible of a disease it is.

A friend of ours, Danielle Rose, is participating and fundraising for the MS walk in Belmar, NJ. Please consider donating to Danielle’s fundraising efforts http://tinyurl.com/ms-walk-support

Multiple sclerosis (or MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system (CNS), which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision. The progress, severity, and specific symptoms of MS are unpredictable and vary from one person to another. Today, new treatments and advances in research are giving new hope to people affected by the disease.

For more information on the National MS Society visit http://www.nationalmssociety.org

Scott Joy’s 2009 LIVESTRONG Challenge Video

2009-02-02T17:31:00.003-05:00

A great video created by Scott Joy to help promote his participation in the 2009 LIVESTRONG Challenge series. Scott is participating is Seattle, Philadelphia and Austin this year. You can follow Scott on twitter at http://twitter.com/scottjoy and visit his website at http://www.joyridesnh.com/

Great Article on ESPN.COM About Lance's Return

2009-01-20T15:54:00.003-05:00

CLICK THE PICTURE TO VIEW THE ESPN ARTICLE

"WHAY NOW? WHY NOT?"

President Barack Obama's Inaugural Address

2009-01-20T12:43:00.001-05:00

My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.
Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.
These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land - a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted - for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things - some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.

For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.

Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions - that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act - not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions - who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them - that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works - whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified.

Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account - to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day - because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control - and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart - not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort - even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West - know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment - a moment that will define a generation - it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends - hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism - these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility - a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.
This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence - the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world...that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."

America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

Dr. Martin Luther King Quote

2009-01-19T08:27:00.002-05:00

"Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane."

- Dr. Martin Luther King

LIVESTRONG Army Ocean County - Raising Awareness

2009-01-14T14:45:00.001-05:00

LIVESTRONG Army Ocean County NJ will be raising awareness (handing out informational material) and recruiting new local army members (All new members will get a LIVESTRONG wristband) at Ocean County Mall February 20, 2009 3:00PM-5:00PM.

We will have a sign up sheet for people who would like to show your support in the fight against cancer, volunteer your time at events to raise awareness and raise funds or volunteer your time meeting or writing letters to local and state officials to make cancer a local/national priority.

You can sign up online at http://livestrongarmyoceancounty.blogspot.com/2008/12/sign-up-for-livestrong-army-ocean.html

We will also be there in March. Date is TBD.

LIVESTRONG!

Starting off the year

2009-01-12T08:50:00.005-05:00

The last month has been tough to a few of my friends and family. My brother-in-laws mother passed away on Christmas Eve after a long fight with cancer. A coworkers mother passed away also from cancer. Yesterday I learned of a friend from high school, who I have not spoken to since we graduated, has a 10 year old son with Tectal Glioma Brain Stem Tumor. It shows how much work we have ahead of us. I will certainly make sure to make a difference in their memory and honor.

On Monday I had a doctor’s appointment with my dermatologist. She removed 3, as she stated, "curious marks" from my back to get tested. This is not the first time. In May 2006, weeks before I was diagnosed with testicular cancer, I had 13 marks removed and tested and then went back to have one more retested do to "cell activity." I found that I did not have skin cancer. It runs in my family as my father had it so I make sure to get checked up at least once a year or more if the doctor recommends. I should get my results later this week.

On Friday I got my reminder in the mail from Doctor Schor to make my 4 month appointment in February. I know I say it every time, but time sure does fly by. I feel as if i were just there. I will make the appointment sometime this week during lunch.

Also on On Friday I delivered LIVESTRONG Notebooks, LIVESTRONG wristbands and other informational material to the Radiation Oncology department at Community Medical Center in Toms River, NJ. My wife made the call on Monday and by Friday I was able to drop off the items. The best part of helping them was they really needed it. They are glad to now have a local representative/volunteer of the LAF to go to when they need material.

This week Kristy will be calling all hospitals in Ocean County to see what we can do to help them. We are offering free LIVESTRONG notebooks, wristbands, cancer informational material. We are offering to assist with support groups and speaking to patients and nursing programs.

2008 ended on a sad note, but there is a lot to do in 2009 and we are off to a great start!

LIVESTRONG!

2008 Summary

2009-01-02T11:23:00.003-05:00

Here is a brief summary of 2008 on this blog and some things that were in the news.

January

Excitement of the Presidential elections and their stance on cancer and other health related issues
Starting my 2008 LIVESTRONG Challenge fundraising
Caroline’s sinus issues, CT scans and scheduling Adenoid removal surgery in April.
My health scare, finding another lump and the waiting 6-8 weeks for another ultrasound
The passing of a brave young woman, Holly Young, whom I met at the 2006 LIVESTRONG Summit.

February

Being asked (and accepting) by the LAF to be on the LIVESTRONG Summit Steering Committee
Started reading Russ Perez’s Testicular cancer blog
NCI released new data that there are nearly 12 million cancer survivors.
Booking my 5 day golf trip to Myrtle Beach, SC for May
Found Hope for Holly and began following their blog.
Signed up several Team Down One sponsors
Celebrating Annabelle’s 1st Birthday

March

Following Randy Pausch (The Last Lecture)
LIVESTRONG Summit recruiting
Waiting to get my ultra sound was weighing on my mind
Guest Speaking in Philadelphia High school
Signed up several Team Down One sponsors
Finding out I was cancer free (darn calcium deposit shadow)
Dr. Randy Pausch provided testimony to the Labor, Health & Human Services Subcommittee

April

Canceling Caroline’s Adenoid removal surgery.
Promoting Testicular Cancer Week
Learned about “If You Don’t Fight Cancer, You Don’t Know Jack”
Participating in the MS Walk in Seaside, NJ with my family
Promoting LIVESTRONG Day

May

Skin cancer awareness month
My friend Dee gets the "Spirit of Courage Award"
Boston Red Sox and cancer survivor Jon Lester throws no-hitter
Senator Edward Kennedy has cancer
LIVESTRONG Day “Cocktails for a Cure” in Seaside, NJ
Golf Trip to Myrtle Beach was a great time!
Promoted at work to Director of Voice ILD Network Engineering
Stand Up to Cancer Announced air date

June

Celebrated Kristy’s 31st birthday, which also marks 2 years since I was diagnosed with cancer
Helping hundreds of people raise funds for their LIVESTRONG Challenge participation
NBC’s Tim Russert dies
Family vacation to Wildwood, NJ which turned out to be a quick one after Caroline got a stomach bug
Tiger Woods US Open win was AWESOME!

July

My sisters Applebee’s fundraiser
Amazing story of Eric Shanteau, Olympic swimmer
Tony Snow and Bobby Murcer Die after fighting cancer
My 4 month checkup and cancer FREE
LIVESTRONG Summit, meeting old and new friends while both helping and participating in the Summit.
Randy Pausch dies
Work trip to Montreal

August

New Personal action plan out of the summit
Fundraising push before the LIVESTRONG Challenge
Lance's 2nd place finish in the Leadville Trail 100
The passing of Leroy Sievers
Team Down One raised over $40,000 since Feb. 2007
Participating with my family and friends in the LIVESTRONG Challenge Philadelphia
Started LIVESTRONG Army Ocean County NJ
Barak Obama’s DNC speech

September

Stand Up to Cancer
John McCain’s RNC speech
Guest spoke at Philadelphia Community College
Lance Armstrong announces he will return to cycling and raise global awareness on cancer
Remembering 9/11 – we will never forget!
I was in our company news letter sent to over 5,500 staff
Work related trips to Paramus, NJ and Richardson TX.
Booking my Ride for the Roses weekend trip for October was a tough decision

October

I joined Twitter
One year since my grandfather passed away
Ride for the Roses in Austin, TX
Work trip to Loveland, CO

November

I posted a few reviews of the Ride for the Roses
Presidential Election – Barak Obama WINS!
4 month check up – still cancer free
Promoting my wife’s fundraiser

December

LIVESTRONG Challenge 2009 registration is opened
Created the Team Down One registration
Held a fundraiser and raised several hundred dollars for the LAF
Guest spoke at Buck County Community College
WHO announced cancer will be the worlds #1 killer by 2010
LIVESTRONG Day 2009 announced – October 2nd
Christmas and New Years

Update on Stand up 2 Cancer

2008-12-21T09:46:00.001-05:00

An update on new initiatives since the hugely successful September broadcast and how the money raised is being spent.

LIVESTRONG Day 2009 Announced - October 2, 2009

2008-12-20T12:19:00.001-05:00

Yesterday the Lance Armstrong Foundation announced the date for LIVESTRONG Day 2009 - October 2, 2009. LIVESTRONG Day is the Lance Armstrong Foundation's one-day initiative to raise awareness and funds for the cancer fight. Our goal is to have over 1000 global events take place in communities across the world to raise awareness and funds for the fight against cancer.

There will be many more details in the coming future, but we will have event registration available on March 2nd, 2009. In the meantime, if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask by e-mailing livestrongday@livestrong.org.

Please take time to view the LAF's video on LIVESTRONG and the global message.

Cancer Deaths Take Heavy Financial Toll

2008-12-10T10:16:00.000-05:00

"TUESDAY, Dec. 9 (HealthDay News) -- In pure economic terms of productivity lost and the expense of care-giving, cancer deaths cost the United States $232.4 billion in 2000 and will cost $308 billion in 2020, a new report finds."

Read the article HERE on yahoo news.

Leading U.S. Cancer Organizations Unite Against the Growing Global Cancer Burden

2008-12-09T16:15:00.002-05:00

"ATLANTA, Dec 09, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire via COMTEX/ -- New World Cancer Report Released by IARC; U.S. Groups List Six Critical Steps the New U.S. Administration Can Take
Despite the recent good news that cancer incidence and death rates for men and women in the United States continue to decline, cancer is projected to become the leading cause of death worldwide in the year 2010, and low- and middle-income countries will feel the impact of higher cancer incidence and death rates more sharply than industrialized countries. The nation's leading cancer organizations joined forces today at an event called Conquering Cancer: A Global Effort, to focus attention on the growing global cancer burden and discuss efforts needed to address the problem. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) released the new edition of the World Cancer Report. The American Cancer Society, the Lance Armstrong Foundation, and Susan G. Komen for the Cure discussed how each organization is addressing the global cancer problem and together issued a call to action for the incoming United States presidential administration and Congress. In addition, a new international documentary film entitled "Cancer Is..." was premiered. "

Read the article HERE.

Cancer to be world's top killer by 2010, WHO says

2008-12-09T16:15:00.001-05:00

"ATLANTA – Cancer will overtake heart disease as the world's top killer by 2010, part of a trend that should more than double global cancer cases and deaths by 2030, international health experts said in a report released Tuesday. Rising tobacco use in developing countries is believed to be a huge reason for the shift, particularly in China and India, where 40 percent of the world's smokers now live."

Read the article HERE.

Operation Bling Foundation

2008-12-05T13:05:00.001-05:00

I was reading my friend Dee's blog and I saw her post on this great new not-for-profit in NJ called Operation Bling Foundation.

Check out there website! What a great idea!

Sad News - 2008 LIVESTRONG Summit Delegate Tyler Schutte Has Died

2008-12-05T12:32:00.002-05:00

"Tyler Schutte planned to be an elementary teacher. To that end, the 2002 La Salle High School graduate received a bachelor’s degree in education from Ohio State University in 2007 and was to begin the final quarter of his master’s program in June. It wasn’t to be. Six months ago, Mr. Schutte, 24, was diagnosed with extrapulmonary small cell carcinoma. He died Monday at the Hospice of Cincinnati at Mercy Hospital Western Hills."

Read the article HERE.

Team Down One is registered for Philadelphia, PA 2009 LIVESTRONG Challenge

2008-12-02T09:58:00.002-05:00

Team Down One is registered for Philadelphia, PA 2009 LIVESTRONG Challenge. You can join the team by going to http://teamdownone.com.

We are looking to grow Team Down One in 2009. The LIVESTRONG Challenge is the LAF's signature fundraising event. Whether you walk, run, ride, volunteer or donate, your participation is one more powerful weapon in the fight against cancer.

Join the Fight. Take the Challenge. LIVESTRONG!

2009 LIVESTRONG Challenge

2008-12-01T22:41:00.000-05:00

Every year more than 17,000 people participate in the LIVESTRONG Challenge to benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation and the fight against cancer. Each one of them has a story to tell.

Shop Pampered Chef and support the Lance Armstrong Foundation

2008-11-30T21:06:00.002-05:00

My wife Kristy is holding a Holiday Shopping Party next Sunday, December 7th at our home with four vendors. For those who cannot make it to our house and our friends out of state we are able to supply online shopping for one of the vendors, Pampered Chef.

You will find they have a great list of products to chose from and two best reasons for shopping Pampered Chef is a percentage of the party sales will benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation and all orders will arrive before Christmas. 10% will be donated to the LAF for party/online total sales of $599 or less. 15% will be donated to the LAF for party/online total sales above $600.

In order for donations to be made and delivery before Christmas you will need to place an order by December 7th. There is no better way to shop this holiday season. You can buy a gift for someone you care about and at the same time know you are helping support the fight against cancer.

How can you shop on line?

1. Go to http://www.pamperedchef.biz/decemberskitchen
2. Click on ORDER PRODUCTS on the lower left side
3. Under “Already invited to a show and would like to place an order? type Lance Armstrong Foundation in the first box and click search for host.
4. Click on the hyperlink for Lance Armstrong Foundation / Kristy Dowd to start your shopping
5. When you proceed to check out you have a selection of shipping to Kristy or shipping directly to yourself. Please ship directly to yourself.

Thank you for shopping Pampered Chef and supporting the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

LIVESTRONG!
Brian Dowd
LIVESTRONG Army Leader – Ocean County NJ

NY Daily News Article: Elizabeth Edwards for cancer czar

2008-11-28T09:15:00.001-05:00

"In August 2007, Barack Obama issued a statement vowing that if his presidential bid succeeded, he would "make ending cancer the top priority it needs to be by increasing funding for the NIH, NCI and other medical research grants." Now that he's won the White House, he can take the first simple, bold step to fulfill this promise - by appointing Elizabeth Edwards to launch a new campaign against cancer."

Read the rest of the article HERE.

GIVE DURING THE HOLIDAYS

2008-11-25T12:33:00.001-05:00

America's Best Leaders: Lance Armstrong, Cyclist and Advocate

2008-11-21T08:13:00.001-05:00

"It's rare to be so renowned in two fields that don't overlap. But Lance Armstrong is, thanks to his record seven Tour de France victories and tireless efforts, through his namesake foundation, on behalf of cancer survivors like himself. Next year, he is planning a return to pro cycling to champion cancer awareness."

Check out the rest of the article HERE

Congratulations to Lance on this well deserve recognition!

Dee is doing well post surgery!

2008-11-15T11:17:00.003-05:00

Today I got the news that my friend Dee's (Women of Teal) surgery went well. I have been thinking of her daily so this was certainly great news! She is doing well and is already up and walking. As I read the update email from her family I was reminded of where our friendship began - LIVESTRONG Summit 2006.

One of the highlights (too many to list) of that Summit was the live performance by the band Wideawake singing a long version of "Maybe Tonight, Maybe Tomorrow." This has been the LIVESTRONG (LAF) theme for the last few years. Here is the video on youtube. Download the song at iTunes. All proceeds benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Lance Armstrong Foundation's new headquarters starts with recycling

2008-11-09T11:21:00.000-05:00

Article from statesman.com

Cyclist wanted to reuse existing building rather than starting from scratch:

"At the fence around the site of the Lance Armstrong Foundation building currently under construction, large concrete rectangles are stacked like dominoes next to tidy piles of long wooden beams. If you look closely at the designer's rendering for the $9.5 million project at 2201 E. Sixth St. you can see those concrete slabs, carefully removed from what was once a warehouse floor, serving as outdoor paving blocks. The long wooden planks will be reused. In all, more than 75 percent of the materials taken out of the building will be re-employed and at least half of what cannot be used will be recycled and salvaged."

4 Month Check up

2008-11-07T11:01:00.001-05:00

I went for my 4 month check up with my urologist Doctor Martin Schor of Mahmood-Schor Urology in Toms River, NJ. Before my check up I gave Dr. Schor 10 LIVESTRONG Notebooks and Wristbands to hand out to his patients that have cancer. Dr. Schor really liked the idea and mentioned he knew of a 46 year old man who is a new patient with Prostate cancer that he will be giving it to. I told him to contact me if he needs more.

Nothing like knowing you are helping people in their cancer experience. It definitely makes your day feel that much better.

My check up went quick. Dr. Schor performed the exam and gave me some good news. Instead of needed another round of CT scans (pelvic, abdomen, chest) and ultrasound of testis I will only need blood work this time. In 2008 I have already gotten 3 CT scans and 3 ultrasounds so he wants to spread it out more. I could not agree more. While in Austin for the Ride for the Roses I sat with an Oncologist from Nebraska who mentioned to me a recent study has shown we should reduce the amount of CT scans of patients.

I could not book my February appoint as his computers were down so I will call it in after the holidays. After leaving Dr. Schor’s I stopped across RT 37 to get my blood work done at Quest. It was real quick in/out as no one was there. I sure do like quick office visits.

LIVESTRONG!

Brian Dowd

NY TIMES Article "Scientists Decode Set of Cancer Genes"

2008-11-06T12:54:00.002-05:00

This is an interesting and exciting article in the NY TIMES on how doctors are working on the mutations ina persons genes that may have caused their cancer. This is the type of break through research that one day bring a cure.

Congratulations to President-Elect Barak Obama!

2008-11-05T08:43:00.004-05:00

What an historic night! Let me start off by saying I did not vote for President-Elect Barak Obama and I have not liked his stance on several issues over the last few months. However, I am first and foremost an American and I back my President regardless of my vote. I am extremely proud to be an American today.

I have said numerous times throughout the year I have thought we had two good candidates to choose from and I believe the country will be in good hands with either of them. Change was going to come from both of them. Now we focus on making our country better.

I look forward to seeing what President-Elect Barak Obama does for the cancer community. We need a champion and I have to believe a man who lost his mother and grandmother to cancer will make it a priority.

Congratulations to President-Elect Barak Obama!

LIVESTRONG!

Brian Dowd

ELECTION 2008

2008-11-04T08:47:00.000-05:00

There is nothing like Election Day. All Americans have a chance to stand up and cast their vote for their elected officials. Today is extra important as we get to select the next President of the United States of America. I am a true believer that this year we have two good choices and regardless of which one gets selected we will be headed for CHANGE.

Today I voted at 7:15am EST in the Beachwood fire house. I have voted numerous times and I can say that I never saw the amount of people I saw today. It was great to see and I am confident we will see the biggest voter turn out in the history of the USA.

I have kept an opened mind and have not let party ideologies come into play with my decision. I do not listen to the ultra-conservatives who say Obama is a Socialist and I do not listen to all the negative liberal attacks on Governor Palin. I have read up on the facts on both Presidential candidates and their VPs and feel that I am well informed on who I like and why. It also takes a little gut instinct too.

I hope all of you do the same. Do not get wrapped up into staying conservative or liberal. Make sure to base your decision on the truth and not the media opinion (this goes for both parties.)

Remember we have two good candidates. Get out and VOTE!

LIVESTRONG!

Brian Dowd

Obama's grandmother dies of cancer in Hawaii

2008-11-03T16:55:00.001-05:00

"WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama's grandmother died of cancer, he said in a statement on Monday, a little more than a week after Obama interrupted the White House race to say goodbye to her in Hawaii."

http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSTRE4A26GV20081103?sp=true

Movember (the month formerly known as November)

2008-11-03T15:27:00.003-05:00

Support my good friend Gus as he grows a Moustache for the month of Movember (the month formerly known as November.) Gus is doing this to help in the fight so please support his efforts.
Here is an email from Gus:

Hi All,
During Movember (the month formerly known as November) I'm growing a Moustache. That's right I'm bringing the Mo back because I'm passionate about tackling men's health issues and being proactive in the fight against prostate cancer.

To donate to my Mo you can either: Click this link and donate online using your credit card or PayPal account, or Write a check payable to the ‘Prostate Cancer Foundation', referencing my Registration Number 1890721 and mailing it to:

Prostate Cancer Foundation
Attn: Movember
1250 Fourth St
Santa Monica, CA, 90401

All donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.The money raised by Movember is donated directly to the Prostate Cancer Foundation which will use the funds for high-impact research to find better treatments and a cure for prostate cancer.

Did you know:

Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in the US with one in six American men developing the disease and more than 28,000 men dying of the disease every year.
African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer are twice as likely to develop the disease and should have regular annual testing starting at 45.
All other men should commence testing at 50.
Prostate cancer is 90% curable if detected and treated early.

Ride for the Roses - Saturday Oct 25th Summary

2008-11-03T08:32:00.000-05:00

We got up early to grab some coffee and walk over to the start of the 5k. There were thousands of people there to participate which made for a great start of the day.

Tim and I joked about running the event, but both of us decided to walk quick and enjoy it. As I walked I thought a lot of my friends who are survivors. Dee, Caryn, Ron, Scott, Russ, Vicky, Jeff P, Jeff B, Kevin, Henrike, Mike B and countless others.

I specifically kept thinking of Dee and Caryn. These two brave women are both fighting cancer as I walked the 5k and I pray that they kick cancers ass and make a full recovery. Cancer SUCKS!

The 5k had a different route this year which I think made it more challenging (hills) and better. We got to see more of down town Austin. We finished the walk in 53 minutes and as I walked though the finish line I was (as were all cancer survivors) handed a yellow rose. It was at the moment I was reminded of last years 5k. I walked the 5k last year in honor of my grandfather as he was in hospice. This year I walked in memory of him.

After the walk we went back to the hotel to eat breakfast. After eating and cleaning up we took a walk around Austin to see the sights and check out Mellow Johnny’s. That was hands down the busiest cycle chop I have ever seen. Amazing how busy they were! I took some pictures of the bikes and we went for another walk around Austin.

For lunch we went back to Champions to watch the OSU vs TU game. WOW! What a great game to watch while in Austin. It was exciting to watch, but even better to experience being in Austin. The football fans are so passionate!

After the game we made the decision to pass on the Saturday dinner for the Challenge event and go to get some Sushi. Since Tim and I were not riding on Sunday we did not want to eat pasta. We ate dinner at Koyoto’s on Congress. The food was good and we went back to the hotel. Tim ended up going to bed early so I went down to the bar to have a few drinks before heading to bed myself.

LIVESTRONG!

Ride for the Roses - Friday Oct 24th Summary

2008-11-03T08:02:00.002-05:00

I started my traveling at 4:15am EST with a ride up to Hasbrouck Heights to pick up my friend Tim and head over to the airport. Our timing was perfect as our flight was scheduled to leave at 7:30am EST and we got to our gate 15 minutes before boarding the plane.

The flight was quick and we landed in Austin, TX around 10:40am CT. After we got off the plane we walked down to the LAF Ride for the Roses pick up and got on the bus to the Hilton. We got checked in and then ran over for some lunch at Champions Sports Bar & Grill. We just relax for a a few hours had lunch, a few beers and played some Golden Tee 2008. Then we went back to the hotel to get some rest before the appreciation dinner.

We had our Friday night appreciation dinner at Salt Lick which is famous for their BBQ and locations to hold events. The dinner was a great Texas BBQ dinner which everyone I spoke with enjoyed.

Throughout the night there was a small silent auction with such items as; Jonas Brothers autographed guitar, several Lance Armstrong autographed items and other items. We also had an opportunity to rope mechanical cattle or take pictures with a real Longhorn. The Salt Lick venue was a nice place to hold the dinner.

After the dinner we briefly heard from Doug Ulman, CEO of the LAF. He thanked all of the fundraisers for our dedication to the cause and support of the LAF. After Doug we heard from Evan Handler. Evan is a leukemia cancer survivor, advocate, actor and author. You may remember Evan as Harry (Charlotte’s husband) on Sex in the City. Evan told a few funny stories and thanked everyone for their support of the LAF.

After the guest speakers we then made our way out side to sit on bails of hay and listen to country music legend WILLIE NELSON. All I can say is WOW! I can remember wanting to see him when I was 12 years old in Bayville, NJ when he performed at the old Cowboy om RT 9. Willie blew everyone away and I think converted a few people who were not into country music. Willie has a more “blues” sound to him so I think that helped. Willie played for near 80+ minutes.

During his performance the temperature dropped significantly and by the time it was over it was in the low 40s. I was in short-sleeves and I was freezing, but it was still an amazing night.

After Willie finished his set Lance came on stage to thank Willie and his band for performing and there was a funny moment. Lance said he could not go on Willie’s bus b/c he has a new job (i.e. back to cycling) which made everyone laugh. For those of you who are not aware Willie is famous for bringing folks on his tour bus to smoke some (you know what I mean.) That closed out a very long day of travel so I went back to the hotel to sleep before our 5k in the morning.

It was a long but great day!

LIVESTRONG!

Fundraising 2008

2008-11-02T18:00:00.005-05:00

During such hard economic times it has been great to still see the support from everyone to help fight cancer. Here are some rough estimates I pulled from the livestrongchallenge.org website.

Location Est. Participants Est.Raised Est. AVG/Participant
Austin 7,000 $3,700,000 $529
Portland 3,000 $1,000,000 $333
San Jose 2,900 $1,500,000 $517
Philadelphia 5,000 $3,000,000 $600
Total 17,900 $9,200,000 $514

I was able to raise $16,384 in 2008. This is $294 short of what I raised in 2007. I point this out b/c in 2008 I raised funds from team sponsorships, friends, family, coworkers, etc. In 2007 I held 3 different events (2 large and 1 small) to raise $16,678. I set out in 2008 to prove that I can raise the funds without holding one single event and I am pleased to say it was a success.

Though I did not hit my $20,000 goal, $16,384 is nothing to be sad about. What a great success 2008 has been! I reached some many people who were not involved in the fight against cancer and now they are and all of them have promised to help out again next year.

2009 will be a big year for my fundraising. During the Ride for the Roses weekend I started laying out my plans for a golf tourney. I have several friends that have the experience holding a golf tourny so I look forward to a successful fundraising event.

Look for big things from Team Down One next year!

LIVESTRONG!

Willie Nelson at the Salt Lick (Texas)

2008-11-01T10:55:00.002-04:00

The Lance Armstrong Foundation held an appreciation dinner Friday October 24th for over 120 of their top fundraisers for their LIVESTRONG Challenge fundraising events. I was one of the top fundraisers and participated in the Ride for the Roses weekend 5k event. The following is a short (1 min) video of our entertainment during the Firday night dinner, music legend WILLIE NELSON "Whiskey for my men, beer for my horses"

Breast Cancer Survivor Article

2008-10-22T14:37:00.003-04:00

Good article in today's Asbury Park Press about breast cancer survivor Barbara Mattson. I like the quote from here doctor, Lance Dillon.
"The public in general is better educated because of what they can read on
the Internet and through the media coverage every October," Dillon said. "Radio,
television and newspapers have all helped in getting the word out. That being
said, there are still some people out there who don't know about it and are not
getting their annual exams."

It is important to point out that we have made strides, but there is still so much work left to do. This month has really made a difference in raising awareness about breast cancer.

Austin in 3 days

2008-10-21T15:48:00.003-04:00

The other day I called to book my appointment with Dr. Schor but could nto get through so I called his office a few minutes ago to book my 4 month check up (blood tests, ct-scans, ultrasound) for November 7th 8:15am.

Usually after making the appointment it slowly starts to sink in that "it is that time again," but this time I have a feeling I will not be thinking about it the next 5 days. My thoughts are on my up coming Ride for the Roses weekend in Austin, TX with Tim and my fellow LAF supports. It will be another amazing trip!

I am still accepting donations at http://philly08.livestrong.org/bdowd

LIVESTRONG!

Follow me on Twitter

2008-10-20T10:58:00.002-04:00

I can now be followed on Twitter. I just installed twitterberry late last weekand love how it also updates facebook.

Lance's opening remarks at the Clinton Global Initiative

2008-10-16T00:35:00.001-04:00

Lance's opening remarks at the Clinton Global Initiative

2008 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

2008-10-15T16:19:00.000-04:00

WHO: American Cancer Society

WHAT: 2008 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
WHEN: Sunday, October 19, 2008
WHERE: Point Pleasant Beach, Ocean & Arnold Avenues

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is the American Cancer Society premier event to raise awareness and dollars to fight breast cancer. I encourage you, your family and friends to participate in this Sunday's event in Pt. Pleasant, NJ. If you cannot participate please see if you can make a donation.

I happen to know of a great team you can help by making a donation - Team Booberang! Team Booberang is lead by Jane Williams, breast cancer survivor, who gets friends, family and coworkers involved in the walk. I know her husband Kevin who assisted me last year during my fundraising for the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

I know that times have been tough lately and the economy continues to struggle, but one thing that always happens is people support a GREAT CAUSE. Please help support Team Booberang and the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event this Sunday.

LIVESTRONG!

4 Month Check Up

2008-10-13T09:23:00.002-04:00

We got my 4 month check up reminder the other day from Dr. Schor. It is good that they send it, but come on....do I really need a reminder. It is only the most important check up I can go to. Now I start the by making my appointment for mid-November.

4 months went by really fast! When I go to Dr. Schor's office I will be dropping off 20 of the new LIVESTRONG Notebooks.

In 3 days it will mark 1 year since my grandfather Joseph Harold Wallace passed away. I watched the video the funeral home put together. It is such a nice timeline of his life through photos. Throughout the year I often thought of him. I always loved telling him how much progress Caroline and Annabelle are making in life. He did not get to see them often, but they brought a BIG smile to his face. There was no one in the world who had more influence on me and how I live my life. Thursday I will go to his grave before work to pay my respects to the greatest man who ever lived, my GRANDFATHER.

In 11 days (Oct 24) I will be flying back down to Austin, Texas to participate in the Ride for the Roses weekend. I am taking my long time friend Tim Scannell with me. He is going to be blown away by the weekend and to add to it......WILLIE NELSON will be the entertainment for the Friday night Ride for the Rose appreciation dinner.

I also wanted to take a second to say how impressed and inspired I am with what Michael Birdsong just accomplished. He rode his bike across America. Disney Land to Disney World! What a great achievement! Congratulations to Michael!

Nice Article on Jon Lester - Boston Red Sox Pitcher

2008-10-02T09:39:00.001-04:00

I do not have much time before leaving for the DFW airport here in Texas, but wanted to share an article I just read which I thought was a good read http://www.fannation.com/si_blogs/for_the_record/posts/10361

The Buzz @ Tata Communications - Sep 2008

2008-09-29T13:09:00.002-04:00

From the Tata Communications monthly news letter.

Corporate Sustainability Program - Value Creation through Volunteering

Vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare. Employee Volunteering has taken strong roots in Tata Communications, because it has a clear-cut vision of enriching lives and is based on an unequivocal conviction of work is worship. Employee volunteers here get a sensation of different kind when they reach-out to the community after a tension filled day of hard work. As a volunteer aptly puts it “I get my kick for a month just from a day of volunteering”. Employee Volunteers are routinely involved in many social services across the globe.

Team Down One Moves Up!

Brian Dowd, Director of Voice ILD Network Engineering, started Team Down One. Its mission is to raise funds for the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF), supporting critical programs for cancer research, prevention, survivorship, clinical trials and one day a cure.

We walk, run and cycle at LAF LIVESTRONG Challenge series to help raise funds and awareness. Since February 2007, with the help of family, friends and fellow Tata staff, Team Down One has raised over $43,000 to benefit the LAF. This year Brian ranked #9 out of over 3,000 participants in the LIVESTRONG Challenge, Philadelphia having raised $15,700 and Team Down One ranked #22 out of 403 teams.

To help fight cancer Brian started Team Down One,you can visit the site at http://teamdownone.com/.

Brian Dowd, Director of Voice ILD Network Engineering, has been an avid supporter of the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) since being diagnosed with testicular cancer in June 2006.

Ride for the Roses Fundraising

2008-09-27T00:54:00.000-04:00

I am heading down to Austin, Texas October 24-26 to participate in the Ride for the Roses weekend again this year. Last year I walked in honor of my grandfather while he was in hospice and he passed away less than 24 hours after I returned home. This year I will do it again and I will also be honoring the near 12 million cancer survivors fighting cancer in the USA.

1.4 million Americans are expected to be diagnosed with cancer this year. 560,000 Americans are expected to die from cancer this year, or more than 1,500 per day. Nearly 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will develop cancer during their lifetime. Cancer is already the #1 cause of death of those under the age of 85.

I WILL NOT SIT BACK AND DO NOTHING! I do not plan on being a statistic. I plan on make a difference and helping those who need our assistance.

Please support my participation in the Ride for the Roses weekend by making a donation http://philly08.livestrong.org/bdowd which will benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation, http://www.livestrong.org.

Since February I have raise over $16,200 and my goal for 2008 is $20,000. Please help me reach this goal. If you have already donated please share this with your family and friends.

Thank you for your continued support and generosity!

Decision Made - Here I come Austin, TX

2008-09-27T00:09:00.001-04:00

After giving it much thought and talking it over with Kristy tonight. I will be booking my trip to Austin for the Ride for the Roses. Though she will not be attending with me it is important that I go. I will be taking my friend Tim who loves the fact Willie Nelson will be entertaining us at the Ride for the Roses appreciation dinner on Friday night Oct 24th.

I am looking forward to this trip!

LIVESTRONG Summit - Something I wrote days after for LIVESTRONG.COM

2008-09-26T20:01:00.001-04:00

Here is something I wrote days after the Summit for LIVESTRONG.COM, but not sure was published.

There I was sitting on stage in Mershon Auditorium on the campus of Ohio State University looking at over 1000 people wearing VOTE YELLOW tee-shirts and I was about to be part of a historic occasion. I was at the LIVESTRONG Summit and LIVESTRONG Presidential Town Hall on Cancer.

I certainly never thought I would be sitting on stage with Lance Armstrong and Senator John McCain, but one thing is certain, I knew I was there to help make cancer a national priority.

As we waited for Senator McCain and Lance to come out I sat there thinking about my first experience with the Lance Armstrong Foundation at the 2006 LIVESTRONG Summit. Back when I did not know what the LAF was about and I did not know what I was going to do after I went home.

I had just finished my radiation treatments a few weeks earlier, post surgery for testicular cancer, when I went down to Austin, Texas as a delegate from the state of New Jersey. That is when my life changed forever and I realized that I had to become a leader in the fight against cancer. I created a personal action plan and went home and implemented everything on the list and more.

At this years summit I was not only a delegate but I was also on the Summit Steering Committee. The LAF asked a few 2006 delegates who succeeded in implementing their personal action plans to help on the committee. We were tasked with reviewing applications, outreach program and helping at the summit. I felt honored to be asked and did my best in everything we were asked to do.

Now I was sitting on stage waiting to hear what Senator McCain had planned to help us fight and ultimately cure cancer. As I looked out at the audience I could not help but think how many of them were like I was 21 months ago. I knew their lives were about to change as mine did.

I found the Presidential Town Hall on Cancer to be an interesting night. I felt Senator McCain held back at times when giving answers, but I guess he has to watch everything he says as it will be in the paper the next day. However, he did bring up a good point on how Congress does not watch how they spend our money. He said he would have to work with Congress to improve how we spend the money in order to allocate more towards fighting cancer.

I walked away enjoying the event.

I signed up for the Fundraising training course. The other training programs for the weekend were Grassroots Community, Grassroots Elections and Grassroots Advocacy. I took fundraising as I felt I could both learn and help at the same time. Fundraising offers a person to not only raise funds for the organization they support, but they are also advocating to people while doing it.

The LAF had the training programs well planned and interactive. We were given opportunities to have Q&A sessions with fundraising experts. We created our own commercials and we had a few contests throughout the weekend. The LAF made it fun to get trained.

I found the keynote speakers to be extremely inspiring. We heard from Dr. Richard Carmona, 17th Surgeon’s General of the United States, Dr. Harold Freeman, President and Founder of the Ralph Lauren Cancer Center in Harlem, Stefanie Spielman, Founder of Stefanie Spielman Breast Cancer Fund and three-time cancer survivor.

My personal favorites were Dr. Freeman and Stefanie Spielman.

On the final day we had a panel discussion with Dr. E. Gordon Gee, The Ohio State University; Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN; Dr. Bernadine Healy, U.S. News and World Report. I thought each of them did an excellent job and were knowledgeable.

As I walked around after the summit ended and I talked to people I found many of them were talking like I did after the 2006 summit. Their lives were really changed forever.

This is what separates the Lance Armstrong Foundation from other cancer organizations. They inspire and empower people affected by cancer. They gave 1000 people from around the country and the world the training and tools needed to help make a difference in the fight against cancer.

It is now up to us to implement and make cancer a national priority. I am up to the challenge and I know 999 other delegates who are too.

LIVESTRONG!

NY times: Health Guide - Patient Voices

2008-09-26T13:48:00.004-04:00

Make sure to listen to Kate Thaxton's experience with Pancreatic Cancer here.

I read Kate's blog Strong. Fighting. Surviving. and have enjoyed her posts. She is a strong person and I am glad she raising awareness.

Great job Kate! LIVESTRONG!

Traveling and Decisions

2008-09-26T08:53:00.001-04:00

Last week I was in Paramus, NJ testing vendor’s equipment and this Sunday afternoon I leave for Dallas, TX to test another vendor. It is definitely keeping work life interesting, but it is taking away from my time with Kristy, Caroline and Annabelle. That is the hardest part of all, but I push on knowing once it is over I will not be away much more for the rest of the year.

Since May I have been away every month for 4-5 days. Not much to some people, but not my normal schedule.

May - Myrtle Beach, SC
June - Wildwood, NJ with the family
July/August - LIVESTRONG Summit in Columbus, OHIO and a trip to Montreal
September – Paramus, NJ and Dallas, TX

Now, as we come up to October I have one more trip to take and I am having a hard time deciding what to do. This trip is not for work, but is more of a reward for raising over $15,000 for the Lance Armstrong Foundation. It is the Ride for the Roses!

Last year was my first year fundraising and I was able to raise enough to be asked to attend the Ride for the Roses as an LAF guest. They fly us down to Austin, TX for the Ride for the Roses weekend while inviting us to take part in two fundraising appreciation dinners, the 5k on Saturday and the option to participate in the Challenge on Sunday. This years Ride for the Roses appreciation dinner will have a special guest entertainer, country music legend Willie Nelson.

Last year was simply an amazing event. I was able to walk the 5k in honor of my grandfather as he was in his final days. He passed less than 24 hours after I returned home.

The reason this years decision is hard is that I want Kristy to be there with me, but unfortunately we do not have anyone who can watch the girls for the 3 days. It is important to me that Kristy is there with me to experience the weekend and to see Austin, TX for the first time. I know she would love the event and the city of Austin.

The last 24 hours I have been tossing around the idea of not attending, but then I think about it….there is no guarantee I will ever make it there again. Anything could happen! I remember telling Kristy back in January I needed to live my life and do things I would normal turn down. Like the Myrtle Beach trip. I turned that down the last 4 years, but after the scare in January I knew I had to live my life to the fullest.

I am thinking I need to do the same thing here. I will talk to Kristy about it today and make my final decision. Last night I was leaning towards not going, but after sleeping on it and my 90 minute ride to work this morning I am leaning towards attending.

I will go with what ever Kristy suggests.

LIVESTRONG!

Raising Global Awareness at Work

2008-09-15T08:49:00.004-04:00

I work for one of the world’s largest Telecommunications companies, Tata Communications. We have 5,500 employees located all around the world and each month we have a monthly letter that goes out to the employee’s called “THE BUZZ @ Tata Communications” which is used to keep all employee’s updated on the latest news at our company.

Well, the next issue will include a summary on me and my fundraising. Here is a short summary of what will appear in the news letter.

“Brian Dowd, Director of Voice ILD Network Engineering, has been an avid supporter of the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) since being diagnosed with testicular cancer on June 2, 2006. To help fight cancer Brian started Team Down One, http://teamdownone.com.
Team Down One’s mission is to raise funds for the LAF supporting critical programs for cancer research, prevention, survivorship, clinical trials and one day a cure. We walk, run and cycle at the LAF’s LIVESTRONG Challenge series, http://livestrongchallenge.org, to help raise funds and awareness.
Since February 2007, with the help of family, friends and fellow Tata staff, Team Down One has raised over $43,000 to benefit the LAF. This year Brian ranked #9 out of over 3,000 participants in the LIVESTRONG Challenge Philadelphia having raised $15,700 and Team Down One ranked #22 out of 403 teams having raised over $22,000 and still growing.”

I was already trying (on a much smaller level) to raise global awareness on cancer at Tata Communications when Lance announced he was coming back to pro-cycling to try for an 8th Tour de France. It is funny how things work out.

I guess it is perfect timing that I can piggy-back on Lance’s announcement at my company. Not many people can get access to 5,500 people worldwide so I am extremely proud that I am able to spread the word.

LIVESTRONG!

Guest blogger: Kelly Fitzpatrick

2008-09-12T12:23:00.002-04:00

My name is Kelly Fitzpatrick. I am the sister of a two year testicular cancer survivor Brian Dowd, daughter of a 3 year Melanoma survivor, grand-daughter of a Leukemia patient who we lost last October, Philly Challenge 2 year participant of Team Down One, and 2008 LIVESTRONG Summit delegate.

I am also the mother of a 12 year old son and a soon to be 7 year old daughter who wears her wristband everywhere and tells people about her uncle when they ask her why she wears it. We are family who Lives Strong. We are not afraid to speak about cancer. We don't let it get in the way of sharing our stories. Our stories can save lives!

I consider myself to be a grassroots fund raiser for the LAF, having experienced our events last year, and taking the LAF training track for it this year. I am already working on two plans for raising funds and awareness for our Local LIVESTRONG Army and I am already looking forward to getting more training as it comes up.

I have never been more involved with anything outside of church like this before and it is the closest feeling of giving back to my community and the global community outside of church for me.

The thing I love most about my work with the LAF is that it doesn't single anyone out. For them it doesn't matter what type of cancer you have, if you’re a spouse, a sibling or a neighbor. If you want to fight cancer as a whole then we must UNITE, we must FIGHT and we must LIVESTRONG.

If someone out there reads this and asks "What can I do?" I would say start by going to the LAF website, then join/create a Local LIVESTRONG Army, make a difference locally, then regionally, then nationally.

One small step by you can make a huge difference in someone else's life. Walk with us.

If you live in Ocean County New Jersey you can join the LIVESTRONG Army Ocean County NJ by emailing livestrongarmyocnj@comcast.net.

LIVESTRONG!

Kelly Fitzpatrick
LIVESTRONG Army Ocean County NJ
http://livestrongarmyoceancounty.blogspot.com/

WE WILL NEVER FORGET

2008-09-11T09:00:00.004-04:00

I can assure you my thoughts and prayers are with the people who lost their loved ones and friends during 9/11/01. We will never forget!

GUEST BLOGGERS WANTED

2008-09-10T17:23:00.001-04:00

I am seeking LIVESTRONG Army members to write a guest blog on http://livestrongarmyoceancounty.blogspot.com/

I encourage you to write something to post on the blog. You should talk about why your involved, what LIVESTRONG means to you, detail some of your personal plans, share tips for specific things (share what works) and anything else you want. Maybe you just want to share your story. Please submit to livestrongarmyocnj@comcast.net

I will then post it on the blog. It will be a great way to get people morre involved and share why this movement is important to them. I look forward to your participation.
LIVESTRONG!
Brian Dowd

Lance Armstrong asks both candidates how they plan to fight cancer

2008-09-10T10:32:00.001-04:00

Philly Tribute Video

2008-09-10T10:12:00.002-04:00

There were a lot of photos of me and my family on the tribute screen. I even had people busting my chops saying that the tribute video was for my family. The first photo is me and Kristy!

The tributes are great and it enables us to share with everyone how proud we are of their survivorship and honor those who have passed.

Follow up to Stand Up to Cancer

2008-09-10T09:42:00.003-04:00

I heard on the news last night that Stand Up to Cancer was able to raise over $100 million dollars. That is amazing news!

Lance Returns to Pro-Cycling with a Mission

2008-09-10T09:18:00.002-04:00

Statement by Lance Armstrong Regarding Global Cancer Fight and His Return to Professional Cycling.
I cannot wait to hear what his plans are to help lead the global fight against cancer. Here is a good article in Vanity Fair.

Stand up to Cancer

2008-09-08T13:29:00.001-04:00

I watched Stand up to Cancer Friday evening with my 4 year old daughter Caroline. It seemed like Caroline was really into it. She was interested in watching it which made me proud and she was asking some questions. Does everyone have cancer? Do I have cancer? These are all questions we can easily answer to a teenager or young adult, but they are hard to answer for children 4 years old.

I took it very slow in answering her and wanted to stress that not everyone had cancer and she did not have cancer. However, my little girl was smart enough to say “then why did you have cancer.” That is where I she got me. That is exactly the reason why it was important to have Stand Up to Cancer.

We do not know why I had cancer, nor do we know why anyone has cancer.

During the course of the program while sitting with Caroline answering what seemed to be hundred different questions I started to get a bit glassy eyed. Caroline was telling me how she remembered after my surgery and I had to stay in bed and now I have, as she said “a big scar” on my stomach. That hit me hard. She was only 2 years 8 months old at the time of my surgery and she still remembers it.

Cancer leaves both physical and mental scars. I carry the physical scar and Kristy, Caroline and I will each have mental scars.

Here is something I have been wanting to post for a few days but I was sick since Friday so I stayed away from the PC for a while.

There are thousands of people who work to fight cancer everyday of their lives and lately I have been reading blogs and comments to blogs that people are not as impressed with Stand Up to Cancer. They think it was made celebrity centric and not about the people who really work on fighting cancer day in/out.

I say it was a good thing as many of the celebrities were cancer survivors and/or were touched by cancer in some way. No one would tune in to watch Brian Dowd, but they certainly would to watch the network news anchors Brian, Katie and Charlie, Lance Armstrong, Carrie Underwood, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, Rihanna, Fergie, Sheryl Crow, Melissa Etheridge, Natasha Bedingfield, Miley Cyrus and a host of other celebrities.

Fighting cancer is about getting everyone to help us finally beat it. I do not care who you are. We need you to help us in the fight and if you are a celebrity we can use your fame to help us raise awareness and raise money, etc.

This is not about who does more. It is about joining together to WIN the fight. Remember what they said, “THIS IS WHERE THE END OF CANCER BEGINS.”

Stand Up to Cancer was a great program and is a great organization. I hope we can see more of this in the future.

Senator Obama's stance on cancer

2008-09-05T12:54:00.000-04:00

I just read this on the LAF's LIVESTRONG Blog.

"Today the Obama campaign will release his plan to fight cancer and you can read it here."

John McCain's speech at the RNC last night

2008-09-05T08:08:00.003-04:00

To say I am disappointed with Senator McCain's speech is an understatement. He did not mention the words cancer or disease at all. NOT ONCE!!!!

Overall he gave a good speech (he does not speak as well as Senator Obama or Governor Palin) and hit on many points, but he clearly did not communicate cancer as one of his top priorities. Neither candidate does!

You would think after attending the LIVESTRONG Summit he would make cancer a priority. I am realistic. I cannot vote for a President based on one single issue. I will be reviewing each candidate and their stance on all the important issues, but hold out hope that both Senators will step up to the plate and make cancer a part of the next two months.

I am also hoping that the "hard core" liberals & "hard core" conservatives would take a step back and review all the facts before bashing and jumping to conclusions. We have two qualified candidates running for President. This election is the most important in many years and we owe it to ourselves to make our decision base on the facts at hand and not based on our past party affiliations.

I am going to hold off on selecting a candidate until Election Day. We all know a lot can happen in 59 days. It is here in the cancer community where we need to step up and speak out on to make cancer a national priority and hold our elected officials accountable. We have 59 days to persuade Senators McCain and Obama. Let’s get to work!

PLEASE REMEMBER TO WATCH Stand Up To Cancer http://www.standup2cancer.org tonight.

LIVESTRONG!

Turn the Towns Teal

2008-09-04T10:14:00.004-04:00

My friend and ovarian cancer survivor, Dorinda Sparacio, has done great things in the cancer community. Recently she lead an effort in her home town of Edison, NJ to "Turn the Towns Teal" to help raise awareness for ovarian cancer. She walked around the town and hung teal ribbons on the trees leading up to the Edison municipal building. Dee did a great job raising awareness on ovarian cancer.

Here is a photo of Dee with Edison's Mayor Jun Choi.

Stand Up To Cancer Friday, September 5, at 8 p.m

2008-09-03T20:55:00.001-04:00

Please join me by tuning in this Friday, September 5, at 8 p.m. (EST) to catch Stand Up to Cancer on ABC, CBS and NBC. This first of its kind one-hour telecast will feature celebrities from film, television, sports, journalism and music coming together to raise money for cancer research.

Stand Up To Cancer http://www.standup2cancer.org

Barack Obama's DNC Speech Last Thursday

2008-09-03T16:02:00.005-04:00

Barack Obama's speech the other night (Thursday, August 28, 2008) can be read here. I will say that Senator Obama is a great speaker and I thought he gave a good speech, but he did not blow me away. This is not to say McCain will do any better with his speech, but in our cancer community people need to keep the pressure on both of them. Here are two key reasons why I was not that impressed. I will post the same after McCain's speech.

You will notice he mentioned the word cancer only once (as seen below.)

"Now is the time to finally keep the promise of affordable, accessible health care for every single American. If you have health care, my plan will lower your premiums. If you don't, you'll be able to get the same kind of coverage that members of Congress give themselves. And as someone who watched my mother argue with insurance companies while she lay in bed dying of cancer, I will make certain those companies stop discriminating against those who are sick and need care the most."

You will notice he mentioned the word disease only once (as seen below.)

"I will build new partnerships to defeat the threats of the 21st century: terrorism and nuclear proliferation; poverty and genocide; climate change and disease."

Smoking at cancer community events

2008-08-29T10:26:00.001-04:00

To say everyone is different is and understatement. Over the last month I have been able to attend two of the best cancer community events LIVESTRONG Summit and the LIVESTRONG Challenge. It is at these events I have gotten to speak with people who are amazing and others who, let’s just say do not get it!

When I was at the Summit one morning I came out to get onto the shuttle to head over and help with registration and I saw a delegate sitting on a bench wearing a Vote-Yellow t-shirt smoking. Yes, you read it correctly I said she was smoking. I kept walking and ever since seeing it I still cannot understand WHY she even attended the Summit. A delegate is there to serve the cancer community, help make change and lead by example. This lady certainly does not get it.

This past weekend I was at the Philly Challenge and while we watched the cyclist start the Challenge Team Down One members all noticed a distinct smell of cigarettes. It was a few minutes later we notice an older lady right next to our tent smoking away while he smoke went right in our faces. Again, she is at an event to fight cancer and she is smoking.

We all know smoking is the #1 cause of lung cancer. Why do these people do it? Well, I can speak from personal bad judgment and say it is very addictive.

I started smoking as a 12 year old and what started as “the cool thing to do” turned into one nasty habit. I was never a 1-2 pack a day guy, but I did smoke for many years. Luckily I was able to quit cold turkey. I did nothing special. I just stopped killing myself. Now, and even more so since being a cancer survivor, I cannot stand the smell of it and I never have an urge to do it.

I know I cannot make people stop, but I can ask them not to do it at cancer community events like the Summit and Challenge. At the very least people should understand that when you are at an event to fight cancer you should never smoke.

LIVESTRONG ARMY OCEAN COUNTY NJ

2008-08-26T18:52:00.004-04:00

I have offically registered to become the local leader of LIVESTRONG ARMY OCEAN COUNTY NEW JERSEY. I have created our blog http://livestrongarmyoceancounty.blogspot.com/. It will be used to communicate what we are doing and also follow local news, issues, fundraising events and much more.

I look forward to working with the other NJ LIVESTRONG Armies (northern NJ and central NJ) and our local communities to make cancer a local and national priority.

If you are from the Ocean County New Jersey area and would like to join us please email livestrongarmyocnj@comcast.net

LIVESTRONG!

Found something interesting...from 2006

2008-08-26T18:20:00.003-04:00

The following is something I wrote in my 2006 LIVESTRONG Summit application. As you can see I wrote this 14 days after being diagnosed. It did not take long for me to realize what I HAD to do.

LAF Question: Please briefly describe your experience with cancer and/or the cancer community:

My Answer: My life forever changed 14 days ago when I was diagnosed with Testicle cancer. 11 days ago I had a second opinion confirm I have Testicular Cancer. 9 days ago I had surgery to have my right testicle removed. My prognosis is very positive, no tumor marker in my blood and I have seminoma (less aggressive.) I still have more to test and more to take care of, but I know I will beat it. Next up 4.5 weeks of radiation treatments.

Growing up I was never educated in school to check myself. I have asked all of the men I know (friends, coworkers, family) and none of them were ever told to check themselves. I am now 100% committed to educating men on the facts about Testicular Cancer and how it is the most common form of cancer in the age groups 15-35.

Cancer has changed my life and my priorities. I will be taking an active role in educating people, raising money and anything else I can possibly do to help to get the word out and find a cure. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to attend the LIVESTRONG Summit and to become a representative where I live.

I will beat cancer and I will LIVESTRONG!

A few stats before I leave

2008-08-23T08:12:00.003-04:00

LIVESTRONG Challenge Philadelphia 2008

Over $2.5 million raised by everyone registered
As of this morning 402 teams registered (We have to be near 3,000 individuals, but I do not have the exact numbers)
Team MBA has raised the most $65,720
Team Down One has raised $20,780 (#22 out of 402 teams)
David Wilson has raised the most individually $54,073
Brian Dowd has raised $15,205 (#9 out of all Philly participants)

I have a lot to be proud of this weekend!

Over $15,100 raised

2008-08-22T12:40:00.002-04:00

Over the last 2 weeks I made my final Philly Challenge push to family and friends. Well, I was able to raise $1,625 since Aug. 10th and now I am over $15,100 going into this weekend. My goal is to raise $20,000 for the year, but it was important to me to go into this weekend with over $15,000 raised. YEAH!

I can relax now or at least until Monday when I restart my fundraising engine so I can go to the Ride for the Roses in Austin, TX in October with over $20,000 raised.

LIVESTRONG!

Here we come Blue Bell, PA - Home of the 2008 Philadelphia LIVESTRONG Challenge

2008-08-22T07:43:00.012-04:00

This weekend is the big event. Kristy, Caroline, Annabelle and I will be heading out to Blue Bell, PA tomorrow early afternoon to get registered and check-in at the hotel. It is funny how 8 months of fundraising (training for others) lead up to this. I consider this weekend as a time to celebrate our fundraising accomplishments and survivorship while honoring those we have lost to cancer.

Tomorrow nights fundraiser appreciation dinner should be a great LAF event. It will be held at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, PA. They will have 3 speakers at this event: Lance Armstrong Foundation President and CEO Doug Ulman, President and Founder of The Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Dr. Harold Freeman and 7 time Tour de France winner and LAF Chairman and Founder Lance Armstrong. They will have a dinner and silent auction. During the evening they will also give out awards for individual and team honors. The dinner is also a great opportunity to meet new people and see some friends.

I will have Kristy with me and our close friends John and Mary Kate. They will be able to experience their first LAF dinner event which I believe will further show WHY I do what I do. It is this type of event that really sends a message so I am thoroughly grateful that John and MK can join us.

We look forward to a great day Sunday. If the readers of this blog plan on being at the Philly Challenge keep a look out for Team Down One members.

By the way, to date I have raised $14,805 and my team has raised $20,280. YEAH!

LIVESTRONG!

Congratulations Team Down One!

2008-08-18T16:18:00.002-04:00

Though I serve as the team captain I think it is OK for me to give a big CONGRATULATIONS to Team Down One! As of this morning Team Down One has offically raised over $40,000 for the Lance Armstrong Foundation since February 13, 2007.

I remember starting out and when family and friends saw my stated goal of $30,000 for 2007 they thought I was crazy. Heck, we did not hit $30,000 last year, but we did raise $21,271. Not bad, not bad at all! Now this year we have raised $18,965 and still growing ;-) I consider this a tremendous accomplishment which would not be possible without the support of our family, friends and our team sponsors.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER THE LAST 18 MONTHS!

LIVESTRONG!

Leroy Sievers passed away last night

2008-08-16T08:21:00.002-04:00

I am sad to hear of the passing of Leroy Sievers. He has inspired close to 12 million survivors to never give up and to always fight cancer!

I did not know Leroy personally, but if you ever read his blog, which I do daily, he brought you into his life and his battle against cancer. On a regular basis I found myself thinking "how can this guy keep sharing with everyone his fight against cancer" and I always came back to one thing. Leroy had a WILL to LIVE and to HELP people understand.

No matter what the odds Leroy made sure to beat up cancer along the way. Leroy will live on in ever cancer survivor! Rest in peace Leroy!

LIVESTRONG!

Team Down One T-Shirts

2008-08-15T10:25:00.005-04:00

I just ordered the Team Down One t-shirts last night. They look great! Check it out below! It says.

Team Down One
Kickin Cancer One Ball At A Time

I have one shirt coming with an added line of "I Survived Testicular Cancer"