Anne Palmer Fundraiser

In 2012 I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  From the moment I nervously walked into Dana-Farber Cancer Institute I was treated with concern and respect.  Throughout my 16 weeks of chemotherapy I kept running as much as possible.  My oncologist encouraged me to stay active and supported me. With a lot of effort I was able to run and complete a half-marathon in my 10th week of chemo.  Surgery followed a couple of months later and finally I had six weeks of daily radiation treatments. Every visit to Dana-Farber I was met by welcoming staff and exceptionally compassionate health care professionals.  They always took the time to listen to me whether it was a list of questions or telling them about my running.

Following treatment, I wanted to give back to this world class cancer institute which fortunately, is in my backyard.  Dana-Farber has countless fundraising programs and one of their most successful is “Run for Dana-Farber.” When I heard about this I immediately thought of the 24 Hour Ultra-Skate at Homestead.  My son Eric and his friend Collen Pelech had participated in 2013.  I decided my race would be “Skate for Dana-Farber.” At my first Ultra-Skate in 2014 I was welcomed into the incredible long distance skate family.  My goal was to skate 100 miles and raise $2000 for Dana-Farber.  On the advice of Eric, I did not sleep and skated the entire 24 hours, logging 141 miles and raising over $4,700.

For as long as I am able to ride a skateboard I will participate in the 24 Hour Ultra-Skate @ Homestead-Miami to fund raise for the innovate research and compassionate care that occurs every day at Dana-Farber.  I am living proof of what is possible with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Please consider making a donation:  www.rundanafarber.org/2016/annep