In 2008, my sister-in-law Theresa was diagnosed with stage 4 inoperable colon cancer. Receiving this news, just after turning 40, is something no one should ever have to suffer through. Two years later on Dec 26th 2010 our extended family lost a an amazing daughter, a loving sister, a devoted wife, and a loyal friend & loved one. We love Theresa and miss her very much. She was a vibrant, energetic and caring soul with lots of love and personality to offer the world. Her life was cut short, way too short, and we pray that no one else ever has to learn about colon cancer in this way.

After her diagnosis we converted the pub crawl into a fundraising event. The party raised money and helped to support Theresa when she became too ill to work. Though Theresa is no longer with us today, we want to continue contributing to a charitable cause in her loving memory. Thus each year a portion of the proceeds of the event will be donated to the Fight Colorectal Cancer organization.

With no known history of colon cancer in her family, Theresa was not aware of her need to have an "early" screening. Early symptoms perhaps were misunderstood and it wasn't until Theresa had difficulty attempting to start a family of her own that the severity of the situation came to light.

Though typical awareness campaigns ask for screenings to begin in your 50's, we seem to be noticing an unsettling trend around the world. Cancer in general seems to be on the rise, and striking earlier and earlier. Whether it be our diets, our own polluting of the environment or even something unknown or outside of our control, it is painfully obvious to our family that we, as a human race, don't yet fully understand it.

Thus we invite you to join us at our annual party knowing that you're helping fight colon cancer along the way. Or if you would like to make a donation in Theresa's honor please visit her fundraising page at the Fight Colorectal Cancer weebsite. Whether you support research efforts behind any cancer prevention and/or specifically colon cancer and colon cancer awareness we thank you for your support and may your family and friends never be affected by this horrible disease.

If you would like to learn more about Colon Cancer Awareness please visit the links provided below: