Sarcoma is/was "my" cancer--Chondrosarcoma specifically.

From now through November, all across America, there will 5K Runs that raise funds for Sarcoma research. Go here (https://www.curesarcoma.org/race/) to find a location near you.

Last year I ran, so to speak (slightly under 12 minutes a mile), the Race to Cure Sarcoma -- Cleveland. It was my first group event for cancer patients. It was especially impactful because it was "my cancer" and there were many there with sarcomas. Most had a more radical experience that I had: amputations, metastasis to the lungs, pictures of people decades younger than me who had died.

That part was not fun.

 My emotions were overwhelmed with gratitude and sorrow simultaneously. I wondered how my surgeon and his staff could face this drama every day of every week. My care and concern for those around me broadened my cancer experience into a community. It was no longer just about my surgery, recovery, scar, scans... I was part of a community.

But there was the FUN element, in addition to the event being rewarding. 

Not too long ago I was using a walker. Then I graduated to a cane. Now I am ran a 5K "race" with hundreds of other people, some who were affected by cancer and others who like to help, make a donation and run.

A running event is positive from start to finish. I shows people being active to the best of their ability. They are accomplishing something physical and mental, emotional and spiritual. The celebrations and enthusiasm is as contagious as the smile on the beautiful teen age girl that stood beside me for the Survivor group picture. She stood on one healthy, normal leg and a prothesis in place of her amputated leg.

I'm thankful for the Sarcoma Foundation ( www.curesarcoma.org and www.curesarcoma.org/race/ ). 

They organize these events all over the country and people by the thousands pay, show up and run/walk. We get T-shirts, hang out with the medical community, other patients and their families and share the common denominator of being cancer patients.

And all the proceeds go to a good cause: research to cure sarcoma.

Everybody should find a cause to support with an activity, in addition to the normal tithes, offerings and financial donation. Whether it is a bake sale, a 5K, a silent auction, a consignment shop, a yard sale, a concert or a missions trip, there are a lot of fun ways to care for others. These efforts raise funds and make a difference that is beyond measure and the participation is fun and that fun is emotionally healthy and healing.

Generous and caring people are the happiest people.

They aren't generous because they are happy, but are happy because they are engaged, involved and generous.

When you care, it matters, even when it is fun!

This summer find a 5K, Race to Cure Sarcoma is my recommendation! And have fun!