It is estimated that nearly 153,000 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year. Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and, by 2030, is projected to be the #1 cause of cancer deaths for adults under 50. This month I am going the distance for the health of those affected by colon cancer, as well as my own! I am taking part in the 2024 National Tour de Tush, a ride to end colon cancer!

In 2003, my Dad died from colon cancer at the age of 49. He was diagnosed when I was in 8th grade and passed away right before my senior year in high school. My Dad and I were extremely close. Softball was like our own language. As the youngest of 5, I was spoiled with a lot of one-on-one time with him—playing basketball in the front yard, coaching and traveling for my various softball teams, and playing Nintendo® baseball while just goofing around. We had a lot of inside jokes too, and a nickname that stuck after the first time I said it. Honestly, if you could have seen his reaction every time I called him Popsie, you wouldn’t have let it go either. He had a great sense of humor and an even bigger heart. Nothing compared to his bear hugs. But in 2003, he left behind a loving wife, five children, and missed out on knowing 10 grandchildren. He continues to miss so much in our lives, but even after 20 years, he is with us in every step of the way.

I recall his battle against colon cancer – his determination to survive is something I will never forget. It was at this time that my Mom became my hero and my Dad became my inspiration. And today, I work for a company that puts so much energy into impacting the future of colon cancer. I hear about colon cancer daily, which many would think might be a deterrent from my work. But I have found strength in knowing that medtech is working toward early detection, to help prevent other people from going through what my Dad went through.

So this month, I have a goal to ride 24 miles on my stationary bike. I am not a cyclist. I actually hate it. However through this fundraiser, I feel deeply connected to a cause that is extremely personal to me. By sharing my story, I hope to ignite a spark of hope among those who have been touched by colon cancer. Together, maybe we can turn grief into action, sorrow into strength, and loss into a legacy of advocacy. Every contribution makes a difference. Please consider supporting me in my journey of advocacy. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!