The Prouty and Dartmouth Hitchcock medical center are very near and dear to me . I am participating in the Prouty this year as a small token of my gratitude to Dartmouth Hitchcock for the top notch care that I have received and will continue to receive, since my cancer diagnosis. The phrase "It takes a village" is very accurate and I am so incredibly thankful for my "village", my care team, that have approached my treatment, prognosis and care with passion and determination. My team of amazing medical professionals make it possible to try and live my life as close to normal as possible even with forever changing treatment plans, transfusions and learning how to combat the long list of treatment side effects. If it wasn't for Dartmouth Hitchcock's attention to the bigger picture of how cancer invades your life, I would have missed out on such a huge part of my life. Living with cancer is hard enough and Dartmouth Hitchcock understands that and goes above and beyond with resources and support every step of the way. My journey is not over by any means but Dartmouth has showed me that my "village" fights just as hard as I do and together we can make sure that cancer is not something that defines us.

Cancer effects everyone in some way, if it is you personally or someone you care about. Every step to lessen cancers impact is important, and this is how I can help, by sharing my story and being an answer for ear for those to come.. Even if you can't contribute financially, remember that everyone is effected in  some way, be an ear or a shoulder or a smiling face when someone you know needs it the most.

All funds raised will help fund innovative researchers and clinicians who are dedicated to finding ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer. Prouty funds also provide meaningful patient and family support services that are otherwise unfunded—such as support groups, massage, art therapy programs, transportation and grocery assistance, and more.

Together, we are changing lives. Together, we will end cancer!