I am hiking across the Grand Canyon this September with a good friend, Kristen Erickson Bass in memory of her late husband, Jon who lost his battle to brain cancer in 2007. During the time Jon’s health was declining, Kristen and I spent a lot of time rowing and racing together in a double. Now ten years later, I’m honored to memorialize Jon’s life with Kristen.

My sister-in-law, Anne Murray currently lives with brain cancer. Anne is surviving over 14 years of multiple cancers and has crossed off more bucket list items than most of us will. Her approach to cancer has been to live each day as fully as she can. Her positive attitude and sense of humor are admirable, and she is currently off chemo for the first time in years.

Michele Washburn was my best friend from college and my maid of honor who died of brain cancer at the age of 41. Michele was the strongest fighter I have ever known. We rowed together on the Ithaca College crew and she was always able to surpass her expected strength and power for her size.

I ask for your donation to help me raise money for brain cancer research – for these three heroes and all others who are impacted. I am grateful for any amount you can give.

Much love.