Coming from a family of four sisters, Michelle, Melinda, Melanie and Marcia, it was bound to happen.
A breast cancer diagnosis seemed inevitable and it did for number three of the M’s in the spring of 2020. Melanie Jean Lacroix Shokal, my hero and my big sister, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Mel has been so brave during all of this, gracious and selfless. I am proud and honored to be helping her with her volunteer efforts as the director of survivorship for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of NH.
Breast cancer had already been a part of my life starting with an extremely close family friend. Sarah was diagnosed at the incredibly young age of 23 along with her mother, who was an important role model in my youth. My mother, my aunt and sister-in-law, and so many others close to me, are breast cancer warriors. Recently my best friend’s mother and my boss also learned their news. The list goes on, too many people.
I did have my own personal experience with a scare that included a biopsy, fortunately with negative results. Being a mother of two daughters, Emma and Sadie, and now a grandmother of Meredith, I cannot help being concerned for their health. All reasons why we continue to participate as a family in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.
We have been walking for many years in Concord and look forward to participating again this year in the event, which is now statewide. The overwhelming energy at Memorial Field is felt as soon as you enter the parking lot. It is something I look forward to every October.
I have memories of the walk in all sorts of crazy weather, raining (almost felt like snow) to hot and humid and crazy winds. It is a day to meet up with old friends and make new ones. The 2020 pandemic did not stop the amazing team of the Making Strides peeps when they put together the innovative drive-in event where we made more memories and had hope to share.
I encourage and challenge others to join a team this year or make a donation as every little bit makes a difference in the research and support for the battle against this horrible disease. Your donation helps save lives. Make Strides 365 days a year, not just on October 16, 2022, in Concord.
Hope is every day. Together we can offer hope. Together we can provide strength. Together we can make a difference.
Marcia Lacroix Merrow of Boscawen is#4 of the M’s.