I was diagnosed with blood cancer in 1998 and have volunteered with the National Capital Area chapter since 2000. The Society was one of the first places that I called for information about my disease and their patient services manager immediately sent me a package in the mail with brochures and materials. Once I received the documents, the patient services manager followed up with with me on the phone and answered my questions. The Society has always served as a place for me to seek information. I have attended many of their patient education program, listened to the teleconferences and participated health fairs. I can say that they extend their services to all people, which is why I continue to support their efforts.

In 2004, I participated in the Washington, DC Light the Night Walk and raised over $4,000. It was a family friendly event and very moving to see all of the survivors, friends, and family members. As I prepare to participate in the event this year, and mark my 10 years as a survivor of multiple myeloma, I know that the funds that I raise will help the Society with their research and programs. The survival rate for multiple myeloma is only 34% and the funds raised enable survivors to seek new treatments, drugs, and access to clinical trials. There are over 11 million cancer survivors and each year more than one million people are diagnosed with cancer. Every survivor's journey is different, however hope keeps us alive.