Maine Cancer Survivors Share Strength At Cans For A Cure

This years, 23rd Annual Cans for a Cure was historic and one for the books.

Over the course of 3 days, those of which unforgettable, the Maine community came together, one can, one bottle, one nickel at a time, to raise a massive $70,500 for the Maine Cancer Foundation.   

We broadcasted live from the Jordan’s Furniture Broadcast center in the Maine Mall parking lot, with the whole 949HOM team made up of Lori Voornas, Jeff Parsons, and myself Lizzy Snyder.   

Also and most importantly, we were accompanied by Ray and Kelly from MCF.  

One Nickel at a Time: Cans for a Cure Raises $70,500 for Maine Cancer Foundation

We all watched as hundreds of people offered not just their bottles, but their hope. From young Toddle Inn kindergarteners lugging huge bags bigger then their bodies, to Mainers with just a few bucks, each and every donation mattered and counted.   

This was deeply personal for all of us, because cancer doesn’t discriminate and has hit so many people we love, we know, and we miss.   

Meeting Cancer Survivors in Maine

A touching moment I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you about was, a stop on the Bill Dodge Can Van route. Lori and I stopped at the quant home of Kim Charland who is a stage 4 breast cancer survivor.

As we jumped out of the truck and approached her sitting with her family under blankets in the garage awaiting our arrival I was hit with a reality. Hope lives more powerfully in those that have struggled. Kim was surrounded by her beautiful family, and best friend.

She radiated this sharp strength and bright light that created a warmth in the very cold crisp air.

Despite her obvious pain, her eyes revealed this positive happiness that you couldn't help but smile at. This one encounter out of many, reminded me why this mission matters.   

The Maine Cancer Foundation doesn’t only fund research to find a cure, it gives tangible and much needed help to our brothers and sisters struggling through this disease. From transportation to family support, they give love and hope, so no one faces cancer alone.  

To every single person who showed up, shared, cheered, cried, and donated, you made a a difference. You put a smile on a face like Kim's. You made her family and children smile too. You prove to me that kindness and humanity is here and thriving in Maine.   

Because of you, hope if alive, sad hearts are fuller, and this fight against cancer continues, but with powerful love leading the way.