Letter: Cancer survivor says thanks
To the Editor:
No one expects, at the age of 27, that their life could be changed by something as drastic as cancer. Cancer is a disease that not only takes its toll on a person physically and mentally, but it also affects that person financially.
Growing up in Hillsboro, my family, friends, and my Durham Baptist Church family were a big part of my life. After leaving Hillsboro, no matter how far I went, I always knew that this would always be a place that I call home. The people of this community have always been there to lend a helping hand. This was never more evident, then on what occurred April 15 in my hometown.
The community that supported me as I grew up, came out to help me in the biggest battle I continue to fight, my battle against cancer. With medical bills that are piling up, the Durham Baptist Church and its youth group came to my aid. In a matter of a few short weeks, they organized a meal and baked goods auction that helped raise funds to offset my medical expenses.
I knew that the people of Hillsboro would always be there to help someone in need, but the turnout I received was more then I ever could have hoped for. I was absolutely speechless and slightly overwhelmed when I saw just how many people in the community came out to show their support for me and my family. It was an unbelievable night which we will never forget.
It took so many wonderful people to organize this event for me. I would like to thank the following people who made that night possible: Deb Geis and Julie Jantz who took a tremendous amount of time out of their busy schedules to organize this event and make it possible; Autumn Chisholm, who assisted in cooking and planning the meal that was served at my benefit.
Also, Tim Diener, who organized and conducted the auction that evening; the Durham Baptist Youth Group, for setting up, serving, and cleaning up the meal portion of the event; all ladies from the church who baked the all the goodies (of which the doctors do not allow me eat) that were auctioned off.
A special thanks to the members of the Durham Baptist Church who continue to support of myself and my family; and the people of Hillsboro, who continue to donate money to me for my medical bills, long after the fund-raiser has taken place.
Finally, I would like to thank my family. I know that I have caused them many sleepless nights worrying about me and everything that I am going through. I cannot begin to tell them how grateful that I am to have such a loving support system.
To finish, I would like to update you on the progress of my condition. I just found out on Monday that my cancer is in remission. I know that getting to this point is half the battle and that I still have a long road ahead of me towards full recovery. I could not have gotten here without all of your support. Thank You!
Elizabeth (Liz) Lancaster
