Why I Relay
Monday, February 9, 2009
By: Shelley Krook

Both of my parents got cancer, fought it and survived it. Many of my extended family members have also fought it, and some did not survive.

My aunt Ethel died of breast cancer almost 50 years ago.

My mom was diagnosed in 2000 at the age of 80. She waited 6 months for treatment. If she was scared, she never let on, she just saw it as something she had to deal with and move on. Which she did. She is now 89 years old and cancer free, thanks to her strength and courage.

My dad also successfully beat cancer in 1997; he passed away in 2003 from a heart attack. I have at least 15 first cousins who have had cancer and sadly, many have died. I relay for the ones who have died, the ones who have survived and for all the others, that they might not have to face this disease.