Hi Everyone,
The Sarcoma Foundation of America hosts an annual gala to raise awareness and funds for this extremely rare cancer.
My family has been to many of these galas to honor dad before and after he died.
In 2013 — the one gala I didn't attend — dad received a Courage Award, an honor bestowed on individuals who have demonstrated exceptional bravery and resilience in their battle against sarcoma.
He fought fiercely for 15 months and it was so meaningful for us to see him recognized. If or when people mention how strong I am (physically and mentally), I know it comes from both my parents.
A few years after dad died, I got curious and tried to track down something from this gala. Eventually, I found dad’s acceptance speech. If you are interested in watching it, the link is here (12:20-20:36): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n05q9yyHrVY
Even though dad is no longer here physically, the annual galas still mean a lot to me.
The SFA has been holding annual competitions for children’s sunflower paintings as sunflowers are the SFA symbol (“Standing Up to Sarcoma”). One year, I didn’t realize that my painting was going to be in the gala program until the gala event had already started.
Immediately, the people around us took notice of a bouncy little kid proudly showing off his artwork. As if on cue, a few of them asked for my autograph.
I was astonished that random people would do this, and I couldn't stop smiling the rest of the night. Even in the prime of my painting, I knew I was no Picasso, but the strong sense of community at the SFA events made me feel like I was a great artist for one night.
As part of their fundraising effort, galas also include silent auctions. The kid I was, did I understand what this meant?
No.
I remember one year I got side-tracked on my way to the bathroom and ended up in the lobby where the auction was taking place. I strolled through the isles and carefully analyzed each item (to see if it looked cool or if I knew what it was).
Eventually, I narrowed my scope to one item that I couldn’t pass on — a football signed by Joe Montana. From what I remember, I put down my mom’s name and a very hefty bid.
All I know is that when I woke up in the morning, the football was on the kitchen table. Today, it sits in my room and makes me chuckle every time I look at it.
Now, Mom would’ve been a little less… surprised… if this had been the only item I bid on. It wasn't.
Although I said the football had all of my attention, there was some other sports memorabilia that I apparently bid on. Despite the fact that I’m not even a baseball fan, I ended up with 2 signed baseballs of famous Yankee players (though I couldn't even tell you their names)!
Safe to say I’m not allowed at silent auctions anymore.
And then there is my favorite memory from an SFA gala. Many people hate birthdays because they’re reminders of getting older (and older). But I love my birthday in part of because of this memory.
In 2017, the SFA gala fell on my 10th birthday. I remember how excited I was to officially be a decade old (double digits!).
Towards the end of the event, I heard my name being called on stage. I darted my eyes at mom and she had this huge smile on her face.
Nervously, I made my way towards the stage with everyone staring at me. I got up there and the band and singers struck up the “Happy Birthday!” song for me. Quickly, everyone in the room joined in — a couple hundred people, at least — and the feeling was surreal.
I felt like just like Bruno Mars on that stage. After the song ended, everyone erupted in applause and I felt like the most special person in the world. My friends thought so, too, when I spent the whole next day telling them every little detail.
The SFA has done a lot for my whole family. From appreciating my dad’s spirit to honoring my birthday, this organization holds a special place in my heart.
To have raised just about $11,000 for them feels like I am finally able to give back and make sure fewer kids grow up without a dad, mom or somebody important in their life.
I am beyond excited to return to the gala this October. It will also mean a lot more not to go empty-handed this time, but as someone able to share this journey and all of your support.
Until next Sunday!
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