From a young age, I watched as so many of my family members battled this devastating disease. Including my Nonno, losing him was one of the hardest things my family and I have ever gone through. Watching him fight so courageously, but knowing there was so little we could do to help, left a lasting impact on me. But the truth is, cancer doesn’t just take lives—it changes lives. It reminds us how important it is to cherish every moment and to stand up for the people we love. I know that for me personally, it was a wake up call to hear the news years after that my nonna was diagnosed she fought and went into remission. And years later, my father was also diagnosed. Thankfully, his cancer was caught early, and today, he is a survivor in remission. While we celebrate his strength, I can’t help but think of all the families who weren’t as fortunate. I know the pain of seeing a loved one suffer, Ive experienced the heartbreak of loss, I have seen both sides of the same coin, and yet there is no side that is more bearable than the other.

This is why I chose to create a team for Relay for Life. For my family who I've lost, those still fighting, and those who fought already. It’s not just about raising money—though that’s a huge part of it—it’s about standing together, showing support, and raising awareness. Every dollar we raise goes toward funding crucial cancer research and support programs that help those who are fighting, and honor the memories of those we’ve lost. For me, this cause is deeply personal. It’s for my Nonno, who fought so bravely. It’s for my dad, who continues to be a symbol of hope and resilience. And it’s for every other person affected by cancer—those still fighting. 

I hope you can join me in raising money for a cause that is so close to my heart— for my loved ones who have since passed, for my loved ones still fighting, and for those who fought cancer before. Together, we can make a real difference. Please consider donating whatever you can to help support this amazing cause, and let’s continue the fight against cancer together.