Petals for Progress in the fight to end cancer.

“Thanks” to all those who have offered their support and expressed an interest in this project.  I have been contacted by so many people who have watched “The Big Guy” video and have been profoundly touched by the message.

I believe that, beyond the personal tribute, is a message that asks us each to examine the purpose of our lives and the path we choose on our own journey. In addition, we are reminded that we have a responsibility to take care of our health and do what we can to make a difference in the world that surrounds us.

My mission now is to do my part in the fight against cancer. I feel I have an obligation. I do so in my father’s memory, and because I do not want to see another person I love go through what he did.

I realize, however that the odds are stacked against me because the fact is that approx. one in every two men, and one in every three women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. We lose about 600,000 lives a year to cancer. It’s shocking that 30 percent or more of the cancers people are living with today are preventable, with another on-third of cancers that are treatable if detected early.

That being said, I am inspired and encouraged by the efforts of two organizations – Stand Up To Cancer – and LIVESTRONG | The Lance Armstrong Foundation. They are both committed to the cause and are distributing their messages through innovative channels.

“We unite people to fight cancer believing that unity is strength, knowledge is power, and attitude is everything.” (The Lance Armstrong Foundation)

I am committed to doing what I can to raise awareness and funds for the fight against cancer. We have set up a fundraising team – Team Petals for Progress – at Stand Up To Cancer.  100% of all donations to our team support the revolutionary efforts of Stand Up To Cancer to urgently move cancer research forward.

More news and progress to come …

Thank you,
Joni Romnes Welzien