9-20-06
Start: Ely, NV
Destination: Hwy 50, MP 44, NV
Elevation: 6700 ft.
Miles: 22.7
Weather: COLD and WINDY!
How do we need your help through the desert, you ask? Not by supplying us with water, or regulating the crazy weather, or lightening our load. We need your help getting us to accomplish what we set out to do. See, out here, there aren't many people - because there aren't many towns. So mom and I just keep walking, wishing we could do more. We talk to everyone we meet, and hand out cards with our Web site. We ask people to pass it on, donate, and follow our journey. But sometimes we feel like we just can't reach out to enough people. So how can you help? Pass it on! Help us spread awareness about bone marrow disease, the AA&MDSIF, and help us raise funds for research and patient education.
Do you know of a company that would like to join our efforts, along with 4imprint and Celgene, our current sponsors? These two companies really stepped up and showed that they have faith in us and the work that's been put into this. And they want to truly make a difference. And it certainly doesn't go unnoticed, because the donations to this cause are so desperately needed. If you know of someone, a company, or any sponsorship opportunity, just call the AA&MDSIF - let them know you have a lead on an "Our Hike" sponsor, and we'll get on it!
A lot is being done for cancer research and awareness, which is very important, and we think that it's wonderful to see so many people pull together to save lives. But to get to that point, cancer awareness had to start somewhere. This hike is our attempt to spark an ongoing effort to not only save lives, but give hope, inspiration, and maybe help a newly diagnosed victim of Bone Marrow Disease by letting them know they aren't alone.
From my own personal experience, one of the scariest parts about being diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia, is simply even having to ask the question, "What in the heck is that?" When the doctor says, "It's not cancer or leukemia," you think there would be a sigh of relief. The truth is, since it is less-known, there are fewer funds going toward research, so that means fewer options. This is a very scary reality. And that is exactly where we are trying to make a positive difference. Every step, big or small, pushes us forward in these efforts. And we hope every step we physically take westward will do the same.
So while we're in these desolate areas of the country, we will do what we can and push ourselves toward the Pacific Ocean. But we need your help reaching out to more people. We won't give up, and we know you won't, either.
Mom and I aren't alone out here, and we think of you, our supporters every day. You are what keep us moving. We're all fighting for the same positive changes in life, sometimes we just need a tool. The "Our Hike" family of supporters, friends, family, patients, etc. is a tool that we can all use to make a tremendous difference.
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