Stupid Cancer

On 8th June 2018 a young adult close to me was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This diagnosis came as big shock to many around her, including me. Despite dedicating my career to cancer research, it was not until this personal encounter that I really began to understand the practicalities and difficulties of living with and fighting cancer. 

Back to my dear one: This person in her twenties is currently undergoing chemotherapeutic treatment, responding well and has blown me away with her strength, bravery and ability to handle this hurdle. Her story has made me want to do more, not just more for her but more for others fighting in a similar situation also.

I have always wanted to donate my hair  to kids battling cancer or alopecia but have never gotten round to it - and I've realized there's no better moment than now...

On October 25th I will be donating at least 12 inches of my hair (hence the reference to Lengths) to WigsForKids (https://www.wigsforkids.org/). I would love to raise $1000 for Stupid Cancer by then, in honor of my loved one.

I selected Stupid Cancer (http://stupidcancer.org/) because I would like to bring more awareness to the issues facing young people with cancer - careers, age-appropriate support, fertility and the list goes on. I love the sense of community created by this charity and the fact that 82c of every $1 go directly to supporting the programs and services of the charity.

Please donate anything that you can, every cent or penny (for my fellow Brits) helps.

Thank you all so much!

Munisha xxx

Did you know? Each year, 72,000 young adults (ages 15-39) are diagnosed with cancer in the United States alone. That’s one every eight minutes. Stupid Cancer, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is the largest charity that makes cancer suck less for those touched by young adult cancer. 

Why I care: This year I became one of those 72,000. I'm 34, otherwise healthy, active, and was diagnosed with stage 1 ovarian cancer in October. While my prognosis was good and my personal journey has been short lived, it's a good reminder that there are so many out there that aren't as fortunate.

On Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 2:30pm, I'm hosting a charity ride at Flywheel Sports - Old Town. Create an account at Flywheel Sports, and donate a minimum of $40 to the cause to reserve your bike today! (Note: by donating through GoFundMe, you reserve a place in this ride. If you would like to donate but can't attend, please note that in your comments).

All proceeds will go to Stupid Cancer to benefit cancer research and awareness. 

Join me in raising funds and awareness to support all those impacted by this disease!

For you Flywheel junkies: if you have a bike preference, please let me know in your comments. We'll do our best to accommodate. Will is leading the ride and of course has promised plenty of Taylor, hence the title of the ride :)