2010 Cooking For A Cure Wrap-up

All the work, all of the sweat, all of the worry, all accumulated with a 4 hour event that went off without any major hitches.  And I am grateful for that.

The weather, although very hot and humid, did not open up with tumultuous downpours of rain and lightning.  The setup was first rate.  The help was tremendous and the participating restaurants were fantastic.  I have to say, that despite my best efforts to screw things up, the night was successful.

We raised almost $4000 in the fight against cancer and had a good time doing so.  It was a very long week leading up to the event and I have to say that I was totally drained on Sunday (hence, no post).  Now the only thing left is the Pan Ohio ride itself.  No worries there…right?  It is only 340 miles or so across the state of Ohio.  No biggie!

Some highlights of the C.F.A.C. :

Mindi Drayer, weekend news anchor for WCMH NBC 4 was on hand to help us out by raising bail money after she was put under “Tent” arrest.  She also helped Emcee the event.  She did an awesome job and truly seemed to enjoy helping us out.  She was able to raise almost $400 in bail money.  She was also a very neat person who took pains to get to know us and what we were all about.  She is a very sincere person.  Who knows, we may try to talk her into joining us on the bike and joining the 6-pack team!

Speaking of the 6-pack, the entire team was present for the festivities.  A true showing for comradeship and solidarity in the cause.  It also show how much of a friendship we have formed over the last year.  To think that we did not know each other last year at this time and now we are joined in the fight against cancer is an amazing thought.  At least to me.  The best part of it though is the fact that we all get along really well together.  We all enjoy each other’s personalities and companionship.  That sure makes the stress of these events easier to deal with and also all of the miles of road go by so much quicker.  I am a better person because I know these folks and their families.

The volunteers for the event were awesome as well.  Everyone worked without complaint and from what I have heard, all had a good time as well.  My co-chair for the event, Kim Weaver, deserves honors for her effort.  She worked tiressly for the cause and was there to keep me on track.  Thanks KIM!!! 

My family was right there with me through the entire process and had to endure the worst of me when I got snappy or stressed out.  But showing their love and support helped me get through the tough times.

And the guest were fantastic as well.  I heard some great stories of inspiration.  We were also greatly appreciated for our efforts.  That helps as it keeps me not only grounded, but give me strength to continue the battle.

My hero, Judy Y. was there at the event.  She is doing so well and looking great.  She also got to meet the 6-pack.  That was an emotional time.  We were reminded of why we ride.  It is for people like Judy.  And now Judy can put faces with the names as we tell her of the adventures of the 6-pack.

So in summery, another successful fight in the battle that is cancer.  I am very happy and proud of all involved and hope that next year will be even better!

Just an F.Y.I.  If your were unable to attend the event, but still want to donate to the cause, just follow the Pan Ohio/6-pack link on the right of this page.  Just because this year’s event has passed, that does not mean that the quest for donations has ended.  THANKS!