Nine years ago, my sister Angela and I were diagnosed with breast cancer and ovarian cancer, within two weeks of each other.  Our mom was diagnosed with multiple myeloma two weeks later. Hard to believe the three of us were undergoing treatment and or surgery for cancer at the same time!

In honor of Ovarian and Breast Cancer awareness months and having endured a 9 year journey that includes three subsequent recurrences of ovarian cancer for me, I've created this page to raise funds for gynecological cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK). I hope you will consider joining the cause and making a donation to support the incredible medical care and research that continues to serve me and countless others. The hope, of course, is that these efforts will eradicate the disease for us and future patients!

The idea for this fundraiser was inspired by a 10 day walk I am taking in October along a 110 mile leg of the Camino de Santiago in Spain.  The Camino de Santiago (the Way of St. James) is an extensive network of ancient pilgrim routes stretching across Europe and coming together at the tomb of St. James (Santiago) in Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain. 

Having many of you - my dear friends and family - walk by my side these past 9 years, I will walk the Camino with gratitude for all of you, and with remembrance for all who can no longer take this walk. I will also remember the unbelievable care from countless doctors, nurses, and staff, including front desk folk, custodians, and security guards (who are known by name). Each of these individuals continually demonstrate incredible compassion and commitment to restoring my health and making me feel cared for EVERY step of the way. 

Walking along such a historical trail, in the footsteps of millions of pilgrims who have done this walk for centuries, helps to contribute to making this trip not only a spiritual journey, but also a journey for health…hence I have coined this “Dos Caminos”.   Many of the most important breakthroughs in cancer research and treatment have been brought to light at MSK, and none of that progress would have been possible without support. In fact, much of the most promising new research can't even begin without donations from individuals. In most cases, government funds become possible only after support from individual people of the early phases demonstrate potential breakthroughs.

Too many of us know people who have faced a cancer diagnosis, and sometimes it's hard to know how we can make a difference. One of the most effective ways to help is to make sure the crucial work being done at MSK continues to have the support that will drive it forward. The cancer world can be such a scary place, but to have a medical team like I have and trust makes all of the difference in the world.

Dos Caminos will bring me to another part of the world, but I will keep you all close to my heart and remember you by my side during this journey.

The past nine years have confirmed over and over again that the funds will be put to good use.

Thank you for your consideration!