Annie lights the way as the Ride for Roswell 2021 Torch lighter!
As a young wife and mother of three, Annie’s journey has not been easy.
“This club that I joined was not something I ever wanted to be a part of, but it’s not an invitation that you are welcome to decline,” said Annie.
Once diagnosed, Annie rushed to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. In the beginning, she remembers experiencing a wide range of emotions. Fear, grief, confusion and anger all tried to get the best of her, but then, something clicked. Annie’s determination to fight took over.
“I was 40 when I was diagnosed with cancer. I turn 42 the week of the Ride, right before I finish up my last treatment cycle.”
What a week it will be.
Annie, her family, and friends will celebrate her birthday and the end of her cancer treatment at the 2021 Ride for Roswell. Better yet, she will be ringing in her victory as the Ride for Roswell torch lighter. Even though this is her first year participating in the Ride, Annie’s dedication is unwavering.
“It’s so incredibly important that we raise these critical funds so that there can be a cure one day. So, we don’t have to continue to live in a world where someone gets a diagnosis, and we don’t know what is going to happen,” Annie said.
Annie will never stop fighting for a cure. She recently lost a good friend, Diann, that she met at Roswell through chemo. Diann was diagnosed with breast cancer three times and had a profound impact on Annie – guiding her through her journey. Coming out of Diann’s funeral, Annie realized that being the torch lighter is bigger than she ever imagined. This is her opportunity to continue Diann’s legacy and help others on their cancer journey.
“I hope that I can help others that are going through a similar situation. I will be there like my friend has been there for me. For other young people that are going through this with their young families.”
Annie and her team, Need for Speed, have raised almost $15,000 towards this year’s Ride and their impact is not over.
“I don’t want more people to be impacted by this while there is not a cure, and I don’t want to go to any more funerals of friends because of this terrible club that we’re all a part of.”
August 7 is a very big day for Annie. Not only will she be riding for the first time, but it marks the next phase of her life.
“I was diagnosed when I was 40 and I will be closing out year 41 with finishing up treatment, starting off cancer free and being done!”
