Thanks for taking the time to visit!  As you now know, on June 16, my sister and I will be participating in this years Ride to Conquer Cancer - a 2 day sore bum, beautifully scenic long ride from Vancouver to Seattle.  Why are we putting our bodies through this you ask?  Well... 

I know we all have been touched in some part by cancer in our lives.  But for me?  Specifically?  My Grandpa Heinz (yes, like the ketchup).  HE IS MY INSPIRATION.  One of the most inspiring, funny, uplifting, strong and light hearted people I have had the pleasure of knowing.  Someone who never, EVER gave up, and who laughed in the face of a man in a white coat telling him he had only 6 months to live.  He sure proved them wrong.   For 6 more years he fought hard.   Laughed harder.  And even had the nurses pulling his finger making sure they too were laughing.  My goodness you were strong.  Being a nurse myself, it's rare we come across such a light-hearted and strong person who cares enough to lighten up everyone around them.  With tears in my eyes as I write, I am so honored to have been so deeply touched by your life.  Grandpa, you were a shining light.  You have passed this light on to me, and here is my way of passing this light on to others.  I can't thank you enough. 

One more thing Grandpa.  In case you didn't know.  YOU are the reason I became a nurse.  YOU are the reason why I want so desperately to help others live a more passionate, love-filled, blissful life.  YOU are the reason why at the end of the day I sometimes frustratedly ask myself, "Why the hell do I care so much?".  Why?  Because it does make a difference.  And it is possible.  I know this because I've seen it with my very own eyes.  Thank you for showing me this.

If you are able to help, please donate not only for me, but for anyone and everyone you know who has been affected and touched by cancer.  No matter how little, it all makes a difference.  For everyone involved.  The more we give, the more miracles we will begin to see in our own lives, enabling us to make even more of a difference.  Who knows.  Maybe with enough light we can conquer this thing for good.  I can't thank you enough.

Love Jenn

(soon to have a very sore bum but with a beaming smile on my face)

Oh, and Smile with Your Heart already!