Doesn't Ryan Look Too Happy?

The week is beginning to fly by, it seems. Perhaps I am just so looking forward to the upcoming 3-day weekend. Monday actually turned out to be a "not so good" day at work, but then Ryan and I had to head to our monthly Relay for Life committee meeting early that evening and it ended up being such a surprise blessing to me. Attendance at committee meetings has been a bit sporadic for everyone this year (just a lot going on, I think), but Monday night's meeting was fairly full (and a lot like the fun meetings we typically have). And most exciting, an older couple whom I love dearly were there and I (and the sweet wife of the couple) made sure we sat at the same table. She was diagnosed with a new health problem (also a cancer survivor) late last year, so I think they have been taking some time off this year to begin to deal with it. Just being able to see and talk to them just really lifted my spirits and helped change a not so good day to a much better one.

Ryan and I also started our RFL fundraising activity earlier this week and is doing well so far (we've received on-line and in-person donations). And with more than 2 weeks left, we're hoping to sell many more pieces of tape...want to make sure I really stick to that wall! For those of you who may not have seen/received a letter yet, I am posting the picture and letter below.

RFL Fund-raiser:

Finally, the question which you have always wondered about (and probably given you more than a few sleepless nights) will be answered!

If we duct-taped Jackie to a wall, would she stick?

And subsequently will also answer your next question…how many pieces of tape would it take?


Family / Friends / Past Relay For Life Donors:

It is that time of year again – Ryan and I are back to raising donations for the American Cancer Society. And to keep the “fun” in fundraiser, we have tried to come up with another unique way for people to give donations towards ACS. Some of you might be fondly remembering the pink flamingos which landed in your front yards last year…

So, how does it work? Each $1 donation that you give will count towards one 12-inch strip of duct tape, which will then be used to duct-tape me to a wall on the night of Relay for Life (don’t worry, if you can’t attend, I will e-mail pictures).

So, how can you give? There are a few options…either hand me or Ryan a check (made payable to the American Cancer Society), hand either of us cash, mail us a check/cash, or go online to our RFL web-site and pay by debit/credit card (Follow This Link). Donations are needed by Thursday evening, June 8th.

Also, with a minimum donation of $10, please let me know if you would like to dedicate your donation to be “in memory” or “in honor” of a loved one (just send me an e-mail) and I will have a luminary placed around the track for him/her.

In case you might be wondering why we take part in activities that might seem kind of crazy (walking around a track all night for the RFL event, planting flamingos in front yards, getting duct-taped to a wall, etc.), here are just a few of our favorite reasons to Relay.

· The donations raised for ACS go towards needed cancer research, prevention and awareness programs, cancer patient services (including rides to treatment, wigs, and beauty days), and much more.
· To honor our parents who have now either surpassed or are nearing their 2-year cancer-free marks…Ryan’s mom from breast cancer and my dad from late-stage colon cancer.
· To remember and honor those who have fought the battle (including their loved ones) and to help give & pray for many to have HOPE.

Please don’t feel obligated to give just because we have sent you this letter and/or because you have given in prior years…we just wanted to make sure and give everyone an opportunity to help duct-tape me to a wall and give to a wonderful cause at the same time. Also, feel free to forward on to anyone else who might like to participate.

Thanks so much,

Ryan & Jackie Desch
Team Steps of Faith

P.S. If you would like to see the duct-taping in person, make sure to be at our RFL event on June 9th at Bellevue East H.S. -- probably will take place sometime after the Luminary Ceremony (usually just after dusk).