I am extremely fortunate with the life I have. I have a loving family, a great job, amazing friends and most of all I'm healthy. I believe that it is very important to give back to those who aren't as fortunate. Olivia changed me in many ways. She taught me to live, love and appreciate the life I have. She also taught me the lesson on how important it is to help others. Even when Olivia was extremely ill she was still strong for herself, family and friends. She was selfless, courageous and loving. Olivia will always remain in my heart…I sail for many reasons and one of them is for her.
I find myself looking to Olivia for strength when times are tough, but I also celebrate with her. I sail with OliviaLives.com on my boom and when I am racing I constantly look at that sticker to motivate me. It represents Olivia's strength and love, but it also represents all the children that are battling cancer. I think of them and try to push myself just a little bit harder. I know that every time I podium I will hopefully be helping the Sarcoma Foundation get one step closer to curing this illness.
Life is short and sweet, but for some its not as long and is filled with hardships. I feel it's important to give a little light for some who's world can be filled with darkness. I will continue my 2011 pledge into 2012 and hopefully I beat my 2011 donation.
Check out www.olivialives.com for our 2012 programs and perhaps you may find an event that you would like to participate in. If so then the contact information is on the website.
Photos from the Benefit are at:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10100688113032811.2751242.5034252&type=1
