Suzanne Dickson

In 2005, after delivering twins and already having a 2 year old, I was diagnosed with cancer. For some reason, I thought cancer was something that only happened to “other people” especially since I was so incredibly healthy up to that point. I did not have any experience with cancer and its devastating effects on not only the patient, but also the family and friends. Its huge impact is crushing to all those involved. I was extremely fortunate to have support, but I was always grateful for the research that enabled a cure for my disease. I always wondered “What happens with all the fundraising money?” prior to having cancer – then I learned when I was a beneficiary. I was truly amazed – and still am - there are great minds that can research and find cures.

 

One story that always stuck with me happened when I was in chemotherapy. My nurse told me how the “old people” always felt bad for us “young people” – it was cute they considered a 32 year old (me) as the “young one.” Even amongst cancer patients, there is a tendency for the sick to feel bad for the younger people, not themselves. This brings us to children. I have a soft spot for those who barely had a chance to live. As an adult, cancer treatment is extremely harsh and time-consuming, but I cannot begin to imagine the ordeal a small child and his/her family must go through.

 

My father always told me while I was sick and receiving help, “When you pull through this, there will be a time you need to give back.” When I met Jason, the founder of Endure to Cure, I immediately felt the time is now.