Twas the season for giving...

Because it is the season to give, and to give is better than to receive UCF collected

OVER 100 GIFTS

for the children of our young adult clients at UMMC. We owe endless Thank-yous to our supporters who contributed gifts. Here is our UCF holiday story...

We wish you all an incredibly happy, healthy and peaceful New Year!

Twas the holiday season and all the Ulman Cancer Fund elves

Were busy buying presents, not thinking about themselves

The presents were wrapped in the office with care,

With hope that bright smiles the children soon would wear.

Each family was resting at home in their beds,

While visions of blessed holidays danced in their heads.

The children were dreaming of gifts, games, and toys

And the parents were wishing for children full of joy.

So Ulman Cancer Fund called out to our supporters

For presents, and wrappers and one or two sorters.

And after one day presents overflowed the place

Waiting to be received by a child’s warm embrace.

There were bicycles, stuffed animals, leapfrogs and books.

There was an easy bake oven for the tiniest of cooks.

A light bright, Legos and an abundance of movies

We all thought the gifts were pretty darn groovy.

Next step was delivery to the hospital and home

From Baltimore to PG County to Bowie we roamed,

Delivering presents wrapped with cheer

To wonderful strong, brave people who shed a few tears.

The true gift was in the giving for all of the staff

We were reminded what the holidays are all about.

We resolve to make next year even better

For giving, taking action, and our holiday sweaters!

So our team will be working even harder next year

We thank you for all YOUR help in getting us here.

The staff at UCF wishes with all of our might,

“Happy holidays to all, and to all a good night!”

In the spirit of giving...

Last night, I was reminded of the true meaning of the holidays. The holiday season is one of my very favorites. Kicking off with my birthday in November, the changing of the leaves to red then brown then gold always stirs this sentimental, bittersweet feeling in me. The end of the year inspires reflection, giving, and gratitude: some of the best qualities of people.

When Brock visited UMGCC last week and asked one of our patients what we could do to help her she said she needed,

"A Christmas present for my 5 yr old."

I know this touched Brock deeply and when he retold the story, we all stepped back to think about just how blessed we are.

UCF put out a call to action by word of mouth to see if anyone would be willing to help buy presents for some of our families at the hospital who needed help this holiday.

Last night, one of our supporters took her 3 boys to shop for a family in need. The boys are 6, 4, & 1 and she had them each buy a gift for a boy their age. She reported it was a, "blessed experience to take them shopping and teach them true meaning of Christmas."

Whether you are celebrating Chanukah, Christmas, Kwanza, or no holiday at all- please consider donating to a family who could use your help to brighten their holiday.

Visit our website for more details.

Sarah Wainio
Volunteer Coordinator

UCF's Cancer Fightin' Mix

Here are a list of cancer fighting songs composed by our @ulmancancerfnd Twitter followers...

@jonfilbert and @miket355
>Maybe Tonight, Maybe Tomorrow, Wideawake


Blip: TripsOnFeet
>HARDER BETTER FASTER STRONGER, Daft Punk


@jennieburke
>Beautiful World, Colin Hay


@ASmithConsult
>The Remedy, Jason Mraz


@ASmithConsult
>I Run for Life, Melissa Etheridge


@tysonbreuer
>Green Light, Punchline


@tysonbreuer
>Come Clean, Hilary Duff


@tysonbreuer
>Phantom Limb, The Shins


@bklynmoxie
>Casimir Pulaski Day


@kattemie
>Momma Said Knock You Out, LL Cool


@jillbankey
>I Didn't Know My Own Strength, Whitney Houston


Jennifer Owen via Facebook
>It's Not My Time, 3 Doors Down


Sarah Combs via Facebook
>Monument, Mirah


This is a great start! Please comment with your own cancer fighting song, or e-mail sarah@ulmanfund.org

Cancer Experience Expressions

Last week I sent out a Twitter and Facebook blast asking our followers and supporters how they expressed their cancer experience. Being a creative person myself,I wondered how the artsy and not so artsy deal with their cancer stories.

I've seen tattoos, books, poetry, songs, blogs, and more. I wanted to hear how YOU express yourself.

I got some feedback, and I'd love for this to be an ongoing opportunity for anyone to contribute their personal expression. Maybe some of the shared work will even inspire someone to create a way to share their store?

Nate e-mailed me that he had a cancer related blog:

There are a variety of topics I talk about, but I address my cancer diagnosis and treatment. I was unable to write about it for a very long time (I had to relearn MANY physical things as I spent almost a month in a coma and lost a great deal of strength and coordination), but I have a summary post covering that time and I occasionally make updates related to my recovery.

Jeff shared a truly touching poem about his friend Carlos who was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Mutiforme at the age of 39 and passed away at the age of 41. Carlos was a marathon runner who participated in marathons all over the world including Moscow, Helsinki, Cuba and most of the major ones here in the states. From the point of his diagnosis all the way to the end he fought his cancer and was determined to race again. Carlos was a Gradate of Penn. St and Notre Dame with a degree in Business Law.

An Ode to a Friend
By: Jeff Houston 12/2/2001


My friend died today
And yet I hide behind my mask pretending that I’m strong
Smiling as if nothing’s wrong
When all the while I’m crying inside.

I never got the chance to say goodbye
To express all that I kept inside
Always keeping up the façade
Of being strong on the outside

I look to the sky and I ask God ‘why?’
Wondering how he could let us hurt so much inside
How he could let someone so young die
When there was so much more life to live.

I miss my friend and the life he lived
I will do all I can to keep his memory alive
And live the life he had wished for me
As I hold the memory of him close to my heart.

Goodbye my friend, you are missed.

Finally, a Twitter follower @cathycookhome recommended @justaride's book Rodeo in Joliet.

If you would like to share your cancer experience, please e-mail sarah@ulmanfund.org

Sarah Wainio, Volunteer Coordinator

LUNGS- (Learning, Understanding, Navigating, Growing, and Survivorship)

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of spending a day with Jonny Imerman of Imerman Angels . Jonny, who is a partner with UCF, is a complete inspiration for anyone fighting cancer or not. Jonny embraces and loves life and is a true motivator to do what you feel passionately about.

The day I got to spend with Jonny, we made a visit to The Cancer Institute at St. Joseph Medical Center to see Pamela Trombero a lung cancer survivor. Pamela had read Jonny's story and connected with his experience. The day of the visit they even realized they had the same chemo! The take away message of both Pam and Jonny's experience, as someone witnessing them connect, is that no one should ever be alone in a diagnosis. Both Jonny and Pamela felt alone. Now, like UCF, both Pamela and Jonny have devoted their lives to preventing anyone else from feeling the isolated during diagnosis, treatment, or as a survivor.

Here is, as Pam calls it, the short version of her story:

I was diagnosed with small-cell lung cancer in March of 2006; three weeks before my 50th birthday. It is very unusual to be diagnosed with lung cancer at 49; most of the population is in their 60’s and 70’s when diagnosed. I wanted so badly to be able to talk with someone in my shoes who had been through chemotherapy and surgery to know what I was up against, but I found no one. Lung cancer survivors are hard to find.

Once I came back to work, I talked to Dr. Krasna about starting a support program for newly diagnosed or recurring lung and esophageal cancer patients. I think it took me 5 seconds to think up LUNGS (Learning, Understanding, Navigating, Growing, and Survivorship). The program is similar to Johnny’s program in that we match mentors with patients who have had a similar diagnosis. We also offer educational lectures throughout the year which have been well attended and are a great success.

I may have had to go through my treatments and surgery alone, but if I have anything to do with it, no patient will feel alone during his or her diagnosis and/or treatment. The program is a success and we are slowly but surely growing.

If you would like more information on the LUNGS support program you can can go to and click on the LUNGS program under calendar of events. You can also contact Pam directly at 410-337-4543.

It was a true honor to spend the day in the presence of two people so passionate and so full of life! I encourage you to at least further educate yourself about Jonny and Pamela's initiatives, spread the word, and continue to grow the cancer community!

Sarah Wainio, Volunteer Coordinator

ELF YOURSELF!

With Brock, Kelly and Brian out of the office today Lindsay and I lit a "cinnamon coffee cake" candle, played Michael Buble on iTunes and prepared some holiday fun to welcome them back to the office...

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

And once Katrina returned from her meeting, the three of us did a little do-si-do in the barn behind the office...

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

We're thankful for...

Mostly, we are grateful for YOU: our supporters!

THANK YOU and a very happy holiday to you!

Debbie Troy talks blue jeans, UCF and True Religion!

Event Coordinator, Debbie Troy, talks about the Blue Jean Ball and its meaning to UCF.
For tickets to the event, or more information please visit the Blue Jean Ball site!

Ulman Cancer Fund Art Show and Sale: HUGE SUCCESS

On October 18, 2009 Diana and Lou Ulman hosted an Art Show and Sale benefiting The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults. With four contributing artists: co-founder Diana Ulman, board member Cheryl Duvall, long time supporter Jack Boonshaft and new UCF supporter Rae Cumbie, the event raised over $4,000 for the fund! A wide range of media and price points was represented for enjoyment and sale. UCF is working hard to create new types of fundraisers that will appeal to many different audiences. The Art show most certainly accomplished this goal and was attended by over 100 guests!

Ulman Cancer Fund Landscaping: Lawns and Leaves

 (Sarah, Kelly, Katrina, Lindsay and Brock showing off John's fancy yard tools!)

Saturday, October 24th 2009 was National Make a Difference Day and the UCF office wanted to get involved. We decided to do our part in making a difference on Friday the 23rd. One of our clients needed some help in his yard and we knew just who to call.


Rock star volunteer, John Beck, donated his time on the 23rd, his equipment, and lots of resources.

UCF is thinking of taking up part-time landscaping to bring in some extra money to the fund. We are now nearly professional leaf rakers and baggers...

Mulchers...

Weeders...

Tillers...

With a special expertise in wheelbarrow pushing...

For more pictures of the UCF Make a Difference Day, please visit our Facebook page! 


Or to utilize our services please call 410-964-LAND!
(Ok, not really...)

Raven's Bye-Week Tailgate Party

Just because the men in purple are out of town, doesn't mean you can't watch the game with friends, good food and free Miller Lite and house wine!

The Ulman Cancer Fund and Ale Mary's presents... Ravens Bye-week Tailgate Event

Please come raise awareness and support The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults at Ale Mary's in Fells Point.

Check out the Animoto 30 second short for the event too!

So You Think You Can Dance honors the fight of breast cancer.

Last night at the 1st Mariner Arena, I saw the So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD) Tour perform. Your first reaction may be, "dork!" And for those of you who don't know me well yet, you're probably right about that.

However, the show was PHENOMENAL. After a day of travel to DC for George Washington's Survivorship Symposium I was all "learned out" and ready to sit and watch some fantastic dancing. I got that and more. These dancers are authentic athletes and beautiful performers.

A huge fan of the arts, with a personal history of 18 years of dance classes and performing, I had been anticipating this year's SYTYCD stop in Baltimore greatly.

Insert incredibly embarassing dance recital photo...

Could you find me?

And here are the REAL dancers...

The SYTYCD dancers performed favorite dances from the season along with comic dialogues. Most notable and relevant for this month (Breast Cancer Awareness Month), two dancers performed a piece choreographed by Tyce Diorio. The piece was a tribute to one of his dear friends fighting breast cancer. Melissa and Ade dance to "This Woman's Work". The dance was prefaced with a clip of Tyce explaining his connection to the fight. He talked about wanting to give his friend hope, and something to fight for.

He certainly succeeded. Please take 2 minutes of your time to watch this gorgeous and incredibly moving tribute:



(This is video from the season 5 TV show and not my own personal video. I was so excited when the dancers came on stage my digital camera video is too shaky to make you suffer through!)

Sarah Wainio
Volunteer Maryland Coordinator

Pre marathon margaritas and other stories from Baltimore Running Fest...

The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults had approximately 50 runners in the Baltimore Running Festival this past Saturday, actively fighting our battle against cancer. We are so proud to have had TEAM FIGHTERS compete in ALL events: 5K, half marathon, relay, full marathon. Also, we had the children of TEAM FIGHTERS in the kid’s fun run!

Shelby Orndoff, UCF’s Scholarship Program Manager participated by completing her first marathon. Here is an excerpt of her experience…

“Basically this was my first marathon. I figured I had done a 5K and Survivor Harbor 7, so I lost the floaties and decided to dive head first into the shallow water. Running a marathon was a "bucket list" item for me and it helped that I was running for a good cause! I've met people both through UCF and my work as a nurse who would love to be out there running and can't. I was running for them. Each step and each mile was for anyone who ever fought cancer, has cancer, or has lost someone to cancer. I wasn't running to the finish line looking for a cure. Running those 26.2 miles and crossing the finish line was my way of never losing hope. From someone who couldn't run 5 miles a year ago, to running 26.2 miles – I’m sure that anyone can beat any obstacle.

The night before the race I attended the Team Fight pasta dinner at Frank and Nic’s. I had a margarita (as Kelly teased me about yesterday in the UCF office) to take the edge off... I should have had 5 more! I didn't sleep much the night before the festival and despite knowing better my nerves got the best of me. I got sick 5 minutes before the starting whistle! Aches and pains kicked in fast - I never lost or became short of breath, but from waist down my body was numb. Mile 17 I had my moment of breakdown. But, I kept chugging and when I saw Camden Yards I couldn’t have been happier. Post race I ate like a teenage boy and could barely move! But it was worth it. Now that it is a few days later, I can't wait to run it again next year! Kick cancer's butt all around Baltimore!”

Heather Gannoe, sister of Cancer to 5k program founder, also completed the marathon!

Click here for Heather’s Baltimore Running Festival story

The Cancer to 5k program, is an idea that developed out of the personal experiences of Holly Gannoe-Shoemaker while she underwent treatment for cancer. Holly is a 3-year Nodular Melanoma Survivor. The encouragement to move forward with this idea came through Holly's participation in the Inaugural LiveSTRONG™ Summit held on October 28-29, 2006 in Austin, TX by the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Many cancer Survivors finish treatment, are given the "all clear" from their treatment team and then find themselves asking, "what next?" The feelings of uncertainty and anxiety and stress that often follow the end of treatment along with the physical changes that can result from some forms of treatment (weight gain/loss, fatigue) are not uncommon. Exercise is a known way to reduce stress and feel less tense. Regular exercise increases your sense of well-being after cancer treatment and can speed your recovery.

For more information on Cancer to 5k

UCF is so proud of its Baltimore Running Festival participants and thanks them for sharing their stories. KEEP FIGHTING!

SCREW CANCER...AGAIN!

Thank you so much to our friends, family, long-time supporters and especially new faces who came out to our 2nd annual SCREW CANCER event at Looney's and helped us to toast to life! With help from our sponsors, Underdog Wine Merchants and Dogfish Head Brews, along with the entertainment of Garrett Anderson and Rew Smith we were able to celebrate the mission of The Ulman Cancer fund for Young Adults.


This year we changed the feel of the event and created a more casual, laid back evening that catered towards the young adults we support! With the generosity of Looney's Pub we were able to attract new people to our cause. If SCREW CANCER was your introduction to The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults we hope to maintain your support.


The evening would not have had such an impact without our special guests. Amanda Pope, a recent Thyroid Cancer Survivor and a Young Adult Alliance Panel Member eloquently told her story about the "best" kind of cancer.

(Amanda Pope-Young Adult Survivor)

A returning guest and young adult cancer survivor, Jonny Imerman, made a special trip to Maryland for our event. His organization Imerman Angels provides one-on-one support connecting cancer fighters, survivors, and caregivers. Jonny spoke about the importance of partnering in the cancer community.

(Jonny Imerman-Founder of Imerman Angels)

That evening we were also able to honor and present a check to our Martek Biosciences Corporation Scholarship Award Winner, Hayley Grist, a Pharmacology graduate student at the University of Maryland.

 (Shelby Orndoff-Scholarship Program Manager, Hayley Grist-Scholarship winner,

Brock Yetso-Executive Director, Ken Ulman-Howard County Executive)

Thank you again for all those who made SCREW CANCER a fun and successful night, your continued support is invaluable to The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults!

(SCREW CANCER attendees listening to our guest speakers!)

More pictures from the event

Miss Piggy, Kermit and James Denton...

You might wonder what Miss Piggy, Kermit the Frog and James Denton have in common. No, it isn't Lady Gaga!!

 All three celebrities (Kermit, Miss Piggy and James Denton) appear as advocates for Disney's Give a Day Get a Day program.

Beginning January 1, 2010 if you give a day of service with a participating organization you get a free day at Disney World or Disneyland! There are few places in the world more magical... Disney's goal is to inspire 1 million people to give a day of service! How great is that?


If you would like more information about Give a Day Get a Day, check out Disney's site:

Give a Day Get a Day


Or, if you don't want to wait until January contact Sarah ( sarah@ulmanfund.org ) for volunteer opportunities at The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults.

iParticipate

"When you pitch in for someone else you will benefit more than you think. Contribute to your community in any way and you will literally make yourself healthier. Do good for others and feel better about yourself, you'll be improving lives while enhancing your own health every day."


iParticipate is a website that collects volunteer opportunities based on location. It is a movement supported by many celebrities and public figures including Ashton Kutcher, Michelle Obama, Matthew McConaughey, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jill Biden. Go ahead, check it out!


http://www.iparticipate.org/

What do you think about their stance on volunteering? Can it make you a healthier person?

Welcoming the newest staff member .... Sarah!

Hello! I wanted to introduce myself. My name is Sarah Wainio, and I am The Ulman Cancer Fund’s newest staff member. I came to UCF by way of AmeriCorps’ program Volunteer Maryland. I am so excited and honored to be able to help with UCF’s mission to empower young adults, families and the community to take control of their cancer experience.

Here you can find more information on AmeriCorps and Volunteer Maryland:

http://www.volunteermaryland.org/

Below you will see a picture of my fellow Volunteer Maryland Coordinators (for other organizations) and Volunteer Maryland staff:



A little background on me… I’m a recent graduate from Fordham University in New York. I graduated from Fordham with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and a second degree in Philosophy. I have a long history of volunteerism, including volunteering in Thailand and Israel. I also worked in volunteer management at the public radio station WFUV 90.7. Now that I’ve finished school I feel a very strong connection to spending time volunteering in my own community.

During my 11 months here I will be working to recruit, energize, and recognize volunteers. If you are interested in hearing about our volunteer opportunities at The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults please contact me at

sarah@ulmanfund.org
or
410.964.0202 ext 109

Also, keep in mind that October 24th is National Make a Difference Day! Start thinking about how you can help now!

Sarah Wainio
Volunteer Maryland Coordinator
The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults

Columbia Triathlon Association's Rob Vigorito is Half Full! Are you?

October 2, 2009 - LIVESTRONG Day 2009




It is with great excitement that we announce a commitment from one of our long-time community partners and friends to support the Half Full Triathlon. The Columbia Triathlon Association and Robert Vigorito have formally announced their commitment to be one of our newest community partners in this cancer fighting initiative.

Are you ready to race the Vig! Watch the video to learn more...



Register for Half Full Triathlon today - LIVESTRONG Day 2009

http://www.halffulltri.org/

Todd Heap Gets in the FIGHT!

On Sunday, September 20^th, Baltimore Ravens Tight End Todd Heap was in San Diego scoring touchdowns in the team’s victory over the Chargers. Two days later Heap was not spending his day off sleeping through the jet lag or celebrating the Ravens win. He spent the day visiting with patients at the University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center through the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults' Patient Navigation program. He was celebrating a different kind of victory for the patients - a FIGHT - a victory in progress.

Heap began his tour of the hospital by meeting with Dr. Mothan Suntha, Vice Chair of Radiation Oncology and Associate Director of UMGCC. Dr. Suntha educated the tight end on the advanced technology that the cancer center offers its patients. Heap spent the rest of his time in the hospital visiting with the patients. He went door–to-door in various units of the cancer center.

The two-time Pro Bowler chatted with each patient and listened to their stories, struggles and triumphs. He would tell the patients how cancer has affected his life and family, and commended them on their strength and positive attitudes. Ladona Haley, a patient who is fighting cancer but still manages to be the Ravens # 1 fan, told Heap, “I am fighting this like you fight out there every Sunday.”

For a moment, these brave cancer fighters were able to forget about all of the challenges that they are facing in their lives or that lie ahead, and got the opportunity to meet an extraordinary athlete and incredible person. His impact was powerful and it was felt throughout the entire cancer center and cancer community. It is safe to say that the patients and employees will never forget the day # 86 came to visit. On behalf of all those who are living with, through and beyond cancer and the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults, thank you for FIGHTING, Todd!

"Cancer isn't Contagious, but HOPE is!"

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

"Cancer isn't contagious, but hope is!"
- Cindi Hart

On Monday I had the special honor of joining the Cyclist Combating Cancer for part of their Spokes of Hope ride into Washington, DC. Spokes of Hope is group of dedicated cancer survivors and care givers who are using cycling as a means to support the fight against cancer – they’re cycling from town to town and cancer center to center across the country to talk to patients and medical professionals about the importance of the cancer fight. Spreading the message of hope along the roads of our community, we rode from Towson, MD into downtown Baltimore City to visit staff and patients at the University of Maryland Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center. From meeting with the leadership of the Cancer Center to patients to medical professionals, the day was one filled with appreciation and admiration for all that’s being done by so many to fight this humbling disease.

A special thanks to all the Spokes of Hope riders and support team for taking on this initiative and for visiting the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults Young Adult Patient Navigation Program at the University of Maryland Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center. We’re honored to be a small part of their journey to bring change.

Another thank you to everyone at the University of Maryland Cancer Center (staff, patients & families included) for welcoming in the Cyclist Combating Cancer on this special visit and having drinks and cookies upon our arrival!

Brock Yetso
Executive Director

Cancer - We are going to FIGHT...and WIN!

As you know the cancer to 5K program has been a blessing for me. Afterdealing with cancer it has been great to have the support of a groupthat does not sit around. I was not a runner when I joined the cancerto 5K program and never thought I could run a 5k.

Thanks to you Holly,Arnetta, the support of the rest of the group and of course how patientCoach Bob has been with me, I was able to finish a couple of 5Ks andeven a 7 mile race. But being able to finish the races is not the onlybenefit. Running has also improved my tennis game. Therefore, for allyour support I am dedicating all my matches at my next tennis tournamentto the Cancer to 5K program. I will be playing singles and doubles atthe Capital Classic XVII, scheduled

for the weekend of Sept 12. Here are the details of the tournament. I hope that you can join me andfeel free to pass along the information to the rest of the group. Iwill be doing my best to win it for the Cancer to 5K. As with cancer,"Let's Fight and Win".

Take care.Denny

For more information on the Cancer to 5K Program, go to www.cancerto5k.com

A Note From an Incredible TEAM FIGHTER!

On Saturday, September 5th, 2009, Joel Wonicker-Cook set out at 4:00 a.m. to celebrate his 40th birthday. 4 a.m. is a little early for a party - but that is because Joel's party consisted of a 40 mile run! He ran 40 miles in 8 hours and 24 minutes through Palm Harbor, Florida in support of the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults and the Kids Wish Network.

The following is a note we received from Joel after his extraordinary accomplishment:

Hi,

Thank you.

I want to say thanks to you and all my supporters for your help with the 40/40 Run and our charities, Kids Wish Network and The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults.

We had an absolutely great day Saturday, beginning at 4:00am at Lansbrook Lakefront Park where a few hearty souls joined me on my odyssey. Kym Rivellini, who turned 40 years old herself September 4^th, joined me for the entire 40 miles. Throughout the day, I had more than 25 running and riding partners and I truly wouldn’t have made it without them. As Kym and I noted to each other “I get by with a little help from my friends . . .”

The first 20 miles clicked off like a metronome, with little challenge and not much suffering. The halfway point however was playing tricks on me. At that point, I began to have some stomach discomfort and my feet began to be uncomfortable. At the lap 5 rest stop, Kym handed me a banana, and it seemed to do wonders. The last two laps were much better.

Much better doesn’t mean easy. While most of the course was shaded, the sun was brutal along a one mile stretch of East Lake Road. We had to walk that stretch. Once we reached the mile 4 marker, we knew we had it in the bag and kicked up the pace. With help and support from so many friends, I crossed the finish line in a dead sprint; Kym finished a minute back to break the tape in triumph as well.

Again, thanks for making this an unforgettable birthday event (my actual birthday is 9/9/09) and for your support of Kids Wish & Ulman. We’ve just about reached our fundraising goal; if you’d like to help us cross this finish line, please visit http://www.4040run.com/charities.html.

Thanks,

Joel

http://www.4040run/.

Run with me. Run for them.

Congratulations to Joel! Way to FIGHT!

LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit in Review: A World Without Cancer

Lance Armstrong & Doug Ulman giving closing remarks at LIVESTRONG Global Summit

August 27, 2009

Wednesday marked the end of the Inaugural LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit in Dublin, Ireland. Gathering over 500 delegates from 60 different countries across the world, I was honored to represent the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults and the adolescent and young adult cancer movement. We listened to informative and powerful presentations and participated in empowering working sessions on topics including the global cancer burden, the global economic impact of cancer, discussions on methods for better collaboration, innovation and transformation and activities around leadership, reach and story telling to help drive more effective social change.




While at the summit, I had was fortunate to connect and idea share with so many amazing fellow advocates, survivors, dignitaries, political figures and medical professionals. Below and above are some videos from the some of these extraordinary individuals and some scenes from the summit.




Watch World Without Cancer Video shown at LIVESTRONG Summit

24 Hours of Booty Visit to Ulman Cancer Fund Headquarters in Columbia, MD

Brock Yetso (UCF Executive Director) interviews Basil Lyberg (24 Hours of Booty Executive Director) talk booty



Join fellow cyclist and cancer fighters at the Columbia Gateway Business Park for 24 Hours of Booty on September 26 & 27, 2009. Proceeds from this event will benefit the work of the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults and LIVESTRONG.

REGISTER TODAY at http://www.24hoursofbooty.org/

Acting Locally But Thinking Globally: UCF Participates in LIVESTRONG Global Summit

Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults Selected to Participate in Premiere
LIVESTRONG® Global Cancer Summit in Dublin, Ireland

First-ever event to bring together world leaders, advocates and corporations from
more than 60 countries to address the global cancer burden

Columbia, Maryland, USA – August 18, 2009 – Today the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults announced that Brock Yetso (Executive Director) and Diana Ulman (Founding Member) will represent the organization at the premiere LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit in Dublin, Ireland, August 24 - 26. The Summit is the landmark event of the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Campaign, an effort of the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF). Yetso and Ulman will represent the organization’s commitment to fight cancer in Howard County and the Maryland/DC/VA Region and engage with world media, political leaders, representatives of non-governmental organizations and corporate leadership.

“In August of 1996 we were told that our son Doug had cancer – He was 19 – now, 13 years later, we join Doug, President of the Lance Armstrong Foundation and hundreds of determined advocates to build a world wide community resolute in its mission to take control of cancer – to conquer it – to triumph over it – all of us together – this is what we have been working toward – this is our journey – thank you, Doug for leading us here” said Diana Ulman, UCF Founding Member.

“The Global Cancer Summit provides our organization a unique opportunity to highlight the positive work in our community on a global platform. Using sport, education & awareness, and the mobilization of thousands of people around the young adult cause, we hope to change the way our community and region address the young adult cancer issue” commented Brock Yetso, UCF Executive Director.

“Cancer is a major public health problem that affects every country in every region of the world regardless of economic and social situation,” said Lance Armstrong, LAF founder and chairman, cancer survivor and champion cyclist. “Through collective action, we will make a renewed commitment to reducing the burden of cancer around the world and break down the stigma and silence too often associated with the disease.”

In September 2008, Armstrong announced the Foundation’s commitment to making cancer a global priority at the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting in New York. The LAF made this commitment after its worldwide research, conducted over 18 months, revealed widespread misconceptions, stigma and lack of awareness associated with cancer.

In response, the LAF established the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Campaign to urgently address the burden of cancer worldwide and support the 28 million people living with cancer around the globe. Cancer kills more people every year than AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria combined. It is estimated that cancer will be the leading cause of death worldwide by 2010.

With such staggering statistics, the LAF recognized that a global challenge like cancer required a global movement. And so it began urging world leaders, leading cancer organizations and cancer survivors to join together by making commitments to take action in their communities to reduce the burden of cancer.

The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults Global Commitment

The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults is proud to join the LIVESTRONG movement with a commitment to use sport, education and awareness at the community level to mobilize people in the fight against cancer.

Through grassroots advocacy & education, the promotion of exercise & healthy living and by facilitating young adult patient navigation in cancer centers, the UCF is working to empower young adults and families to face cancer with the knowledge, resources and hope necessary to thrive. Our work at the community level will help create and promote an environment where young people and families can come together to thrive against this deadly disease.
Description:
The UCF will commit delivering the following two programs as a participant in the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit.

1) Young Adult Patient Navigation Program at University of Maryland Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center - http://www.umgcc.org/patient_info/ulman_nav.htm

2) Half Full Triathlon on October 3, 2010 - a Half Iron distance triathlon hosted on LIVESTRONG Day weekend 2010 that will mobilize, educate and empower over 5,000 people in the fight against cancer - http://www.halffulltri.org

These two programs are in align with the 2020 targets in that they target public attitudes toward cancer, promote early detection and screening and promote access to accurate cancer diagnosis', appropriate cancer treatments, supportive care, rehabilitation services and palliative care which will faciliate improved outcomes for patients worldwide.
The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults is looking forward to participating in the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit in Dublin, Ireland from August 24-26, 2009 and helping to make the case for acting urgently to address the global cancer burden.

Unlike other conferences and forums, the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit is unique in that it will kick off a unified global movement while providing attendees the opportunity to connect with other advocates, network, gain media exposure and access tools and resources to help them mobilize in their own communities. Speakers include honorary Summit chair and former Irish President Mary Robinson, Irish Cancer Chief Professor Tom Keane, CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta as well as representatives from the World Health Organization and other global bodies.

For more information on the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Campaign and the Summit, please visit http://www.livestrong.org/

About the Lance Armstrong Foundation
At the Lance Armstrong Foundation, we fight for the 28 million people around the world living with cancer today. There can be – and should be – life after cancer for more people. That's why we kick in at the moment of diagnosis, giving people the resources and support they need to fight cancer head-on. We find innovative ways to raise awareness, fund research and end the stigma about cancer that many survivors face. We connect people and communities to drive social change, and we call for state, national and world leaders to help fight this disease. Anyone anywhere can join our fight against cancer. Join us at http://www.livestrong.org/.

MILLERSTRONG: Lax for Cancer!

In the mid-atlantic region, the lacrosse community has always been a strong and intimate one. Through summer tournaments, camps and clinics, players and their parents from all over are brought together by their passion for the sport. The bond is significant and strong, which is why the overwhelming involvement of the lacrosse community at the 2^nd Annual Millerstrong Lacrosse Classic was no surprise.

The mission of the Millerstrong Lacrosse Classic is to utilize the lacrosse community to raise the voice of the We Believe Foundation in support of teens and young adults battling cancer. Millerstrong educates teens and young adults about early detection and gives lacrosse fans the opportunity to watch top notch lacrosse players in action, while they play in honor of Cancer Warriors.

Matt Miller, the inspiration for the event and the young man who is the reason behind the We Believe Foundation, kicked off The 2^nd Annual Millerstrong Lacrosse Classic on Saturday, August 1. Matt was diagnosed with testicular cancer in his senior year at DeMatha Catholic High School. He was one week away from receiving his official scholarship offer to play lacrosse at Drexel University. Matt was immediately taken into surgery for tumor chemotherapy. His journey with cancer was tough and painful, but through it all, Matt and his family always believed he would conquer cancer and be able to step on the field to lead his team as a Senior Captain that year. Matt achieved his goal and so much more. At the Millerstrong Lacrosse Classic, Matt’s mother, Sarah Miller announced that Matt has been cancer free for one year and she proudly watched him step on the field to play in the games that day with nearly 100 fellow lacrosse players honoring their own Cancer Warriors.

The Classic included guest speaker, Dave Pietramala, Head Coach for the Johns Hopkins University Men’s Lacrosse team. With the same enthusiasm Coach Pietramala uses to motivate his teams to National Championships, he spoke about how to overcome obstacles and maintain a positive attitude in the face of a cancer diagnosis.

After Coach Pietramala shared his message, each player was introduced and took a knee for the Cancer Warrior they were playing in honor of. After introductions were made, the day was filled with competitive lacrosse as Team Courage played Team Strength and Team Hope played Team Believe.

The stands were filled with lacrosse fans of all ages, and floating through the bleachers you could spot Mary Kay representatives dressed in bright pink t-shirts helping the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults “Ban the Burn” by handing out free sunscreen!

The Millerstrong Classic was more than just a lacrosse tournament. The players that took the field that day played with more than a heart filled with passion for the game. They played with passion for a cause that is greater than goals and assists. They played for those who are fighting and those who they have lost.

For more information on the Millerstrong Classic and the We Believe Foundation please visit: www.millerstrong.com