Dear Friends and Family,

Join Us on Our Journey to the Roof of Africa – Together, We Can Make a Difference!

This year, we're doing something truly extraordinary. We're taking on one of the world's most iconic challenges - climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds and awareness for cancer research and support. Every step we take up this majestic peak is dedicated to those who have battled cancer, those still fighting, and in honor of the loved ones we've lost. 

But we can't do it without you. Our chosen charity, Blood Cancer United (formerly known as The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, or LLS) has been operating since 1949 and is the global leader in blood cancer research, support, and advocacy.  They are a 5-star Charity Navigator organization and every dollar you donate will go directly to their mission. 

Our Goal: To Raise $10,000

Our goal is to raise $10,000 for cancer research, patient support, and policy and advocacy. This isn't just about reaching the top of a mountain - it's about making sure that more people can one day overcome their own mountains too. 

Why Blood Cancer Research?

In the US, over 180,000 people are diagnosed with a blood cancer every year! For us, it's personal: our Chicago friend, Kate, barely survived lymphoma in 2008. Her husband Charles has been a top fundraiser for Blood Cancer United since her recovery and is organizing this trip. Now we live in Vermont and almost unbelievably our good friends here, Andrew and Kristen, have a similar story: Andrew fought first Hodgkin's Lymphoma, followed shortly thereafter by Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Both Kate and Andrew survived because of treatments that were not available just years earlier because of advances in cancer research funded in large part by cancer nonprofits like Blood Cancer United.

Why Kilimanjaro?

Mount Kilimanjaro, standing at 19,341 feet, is Africa's tallest mountain and one of the world's Seven Summits. It's a tough, grueling ascent that pushes physical and mental limits - just like the daily challenges faced by those battling cancer. Here's how you can make a real impact: 

1. Donate - Every dollar brings us closer to a world where cancer is defeated. Whethere it's $5 or $500, your contribution will make a difference. 

2. Matching Gift - Check to see if your company matches a part or the entirety of your donation. This will help double your impact and get us closer to our goal of $10,000. You can check to see if your company matches at the link I'm including at the bottom of this page.

3. Share Our Story - Even if you're unable to donate personally, spreading the word is just as powerful. Share our fundraising page via email, on social media, etc. 

4. Get Involved - Join us on this journey. We'll need the support of our community every step of the way, from training to the final summit.

Thank You for Your Support!

Your contribution brings us closer to a cure. Every donation - no matter how big or small - makes a direct impact on cancer research, patient care, and ultimately, saving lives. Together, we can take this monumental step for cancer fighters around the world. 

Let's climb for a cure. Together, we can reach new heights and make a world of difference. 

With much love and gratitude, 

Charlie and Susan 

https://bloodcancerunited.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/employee-matching-gifts