relay

Normally, I HATE fundraising. Remember those candle/chocolate/gift wrap fundraisers you were forced to do in elementary school? I never sold anything.

When I signed up for Relay for Life, the issue of how I was going to raise money remained in the back of my mind and nagged me relentlessly. After all, Relay isn't just about having a good time with your teammates. It's about celebrating cancer survivors, remembering those who passed away, and raising money for cancer research. It's a cause I strongly support. I just didn't know where to start.

The challenge was to raise $100 over spring break. At first, I wasn't even planning on trying to reach that goal. I halfheartedly sent out a dozen emails and waited for a response. Then, the donation I received from one friend completely changed my mindset. I was awed, humbled, and moved by her generosity and the story behind it, and the motivation to fundraise smacked me in the face. I haven't felt this driven to do something in a very long time. I finally began to pour my heart into my fundraising efforts through asking people directly if they would be willing to give, signing up for psych experiments so I could donate the money, and brainstorming more ways to reach people. Many of the people I talked to were incredibly supportive, and I am so encouraged and thankful for their willingness to help out.

And really, it must be some kind of miracle now that I know I will surpass my $100 goal when I have never been able to sell a roll of gift wrap before. But just because I've met my goal doesn't mean I should, or will, stop trying. There is still a week left until Relay, and I am asking you to please consider making a small donation here.

Every dollar really does make a difference. Thank you for your support.