Today I am joining the International Waldentrom's Macroglobulinemia Foundation. Waldenstrom is a rare chronic blood cancer. Most people have never heard of this organization or the disease and that is why I feel the need to get involved (that busybody in me). I have a very dear friend with this disease and this is something I can do to help. I went to the IWMF website last week and learned more about this rare disease and probably should have just written a check and felt good about it. But after reading the patient stories (very similar to my friend's story) and learning the great need for increased awareness that can hopefully result in more research funding, I sent off an email telling them I want to help.

I don't have a lot of time. My plate is full with my volunteer work with North Country Life Flight, my 93 year old dad living with us, a hard-working husband to care for, a dog and then there is my disability that limits my activity (not complaining) but I've offered them 3 precious hour a week to see if I can help make a difference. It is not much but they seemed to appreciate the offer. Hopefully my writing and promotion background can make a difference for them.

Their goals are ambitious, much more than I've ever worked with but very necessary to funding the much needed research to bring about effective treatment and an ultimate cure for WM.

Consider joining me, if not with your time, perhaps you can write a check. Any amount will help.
Visit the IWMF website at:
http://www.iwmf.com/index.htm

Checks can be mailed to:

IWMF
3932D Swift Road
Sarasota, FL 34231