Hi Friends and Family,

Fundraising for anything other than COVID-related issues right now gives me pause, yet I find myself compelled to do so despite my hesitation because lymphoma doesn't stop affecting lives whether the world is experiencing a pandemic or not. Whether it is lymphoma or otherwise, we all have to choose how to spend our donation dollars.  I have decided to continue my annual effort to raise funds for the Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF). This is my third year participating, and, in lieu of the usual Lymphoma Walk in NYC the LRF is holding a virtual rally so that the efforts can continue safely. At the end of my message the details of the rally are posted.

Understandably, many people may not have the ability to donate to any causes right now. For those of you who do feel that you can donate I appreciate your consideration of the LRF at this time. I mean it sincerely when I say that $1 from everybody I know would add up and there is no such thing as a donation that is too small.  I'd be especially grateful if, either way, you'd consider sharing my message and/or joining my Team, NYC Lauren. You can then create your own message and together we can reach even more potential donors.

In late 2017 when I was diagnosed with "double-hit" diffuse large b-cell lymphoma, a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), I was terririfed. My family and friends dragged me through the months of treatment as did my wonderful hematologist/oncologist, and my treatment was successful. I am forever grateful to Dr. Sarah Rutherford for her role as a physician AND a researcher. Her efforts to find new, improved ways to treat lymphoma benefit all those who suffer from a blood cancer like lymphoma. Dr. Sarah Rutherford is a superstar and that the Lymphoma Research Foundation spotlights her research efforts makes my commitment to this organization even more dedicated. In the spirit of a virtual rally I'm "virtually" shouting out a continued thank you to Dr. Rutherford and all the healthcare professionals in the field of lymphoma. You've been "essential" to me since long before that term was created. I thank you.

Treating cancer, both physically and emotionally, is an effort that must be ongoing. Finding cures, improving treatment techniques and supporting patients and their families is critical to successful outcomes for patients like me. The Lymphoma Research Foundation, I hope you'll agree, is worthy of your support. 

Many thanks and with much love. xoxo

Lauren

P.S. I invite you to join my team, NYC Lauren, so you can also fundraise among your own familiy and friends. Here's more info about the Virtual Rally should you be interested in viewing it.

Rally On! America provides lymphoma survivors and their loved ones the opportunity to come together for one unified purpose — to rally against lymphoma! In an effort to further strengthen the lymphoma community, the LRF has set Saturday, June 6th, 2020 as its nationwide virtual rally. Through Rally On! you can rally ANYWHERE. 

Join us and experience firsthand the power of the movement to end lymphoma and celebrate the work being done to make sure that lymphoma research remains strong and vital. Join Team NYC Lauren and hundreds of teams across the nation to raise money for cancer research, increase awareness of lymphoma, and rally public support! 

Date: Saturday, June 6th, 2020

Event Schedule: 9:00AM CT / 10:00AM ET

Location: Facebook Live - Follow our page for updates!

Facbook.com/LymphomaCommunity

Questions? Contact TeamLRF@lymphoma.org