“Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. You wait and watch and work: you don't give up." ― Anne Lamott
If you've been reading this blog for a while, you know that my father was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in October. The cancer spread quickly and was painful. In November they told us that he would be lucky to make it to Thanksgiving. In December they told us Christmas. After Christmas they said New Years. He passed away on January first. My family formed team Hurwitz to walk in the Purple Stride soon after and everything sort of spiraled from there.
Our original goal was to raise $10,000. Once we met that we raised it to $15,000. Then $20,000. Then $25,000. We had a huge yardsale with donations from over 30 homes and volunteers from our friends and family. We had bake sales put on by Neil's aunt, whose mother also died of Pancreatic Cancer. We had a silent auction with baskets put together from donated items from local businesses. We had a Purple Out at my school where teachers could wear jeans and purple tops for a donation to the team. We worked, and we worked, and we worked.
(Teachers at my school rocking their PURPLE!)
I was asked to speak at the opening ceremony for the walk, because no team has raised this much money. I was also interviewed by the Virginian Pilot. My team has been remarkable. I've felt support from so many people from walking, donating, to volunteering. I was even
interviewed for the Virginian Pilot. To date, my team has raised almost $26,000. The goal for the Tidewater walk was $150,000 and they have surpassed that at almost $183,000. That's awesome.
Crossing the finish line!
Some info for people who want to join us next year (please do!):
- Fundraising can begin in the summer. You don't have to wait to squeeze it all in like we did!
- Parking is available in the garages at the ocean front for a fee. This year is was $10.00 for the day or $2.00 an hour.
- Volunteers are needed even if you can't walk.
- Money goes to four areas: scientific research, patient services, government advocacy, and community engagement.
- Strollers are allowed, but pets are not.
- After the walk there is live music and lawn games.
- There is a children's area with coloring and activities.
A huge, huge thank you to our donors for the silent auction!
Blue Ocean Wealth Advisors with Raymond James
Hunting & Gunning with Perry Beasley
Scrappers Delight - Chelsea Garrett and Allena Anglen
Hook Shots/Field & Stream
On A Mission Fishing
Adventures
Olive Garden
Britt’s Personal Training & Self Defense Gym
Breezes Day Spa & Boutique
Team Hurwitz started raising money in January. This year we will certainly start earlier. Be on the lookout for Team Hurwitz's events! If you want to join our team- let's chat! We are certainly a fun loving bunch. ;)
