There is a saying: yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the "present.” For cancer patients, every day is a gift because they never know what tomorrow will bring. But with your past support, we have been able to enhance the quality of life for cancer patients in our community by providing essential services, support and hope. Last year's fundraiser was such a success that I am inviting you to be part of our cause again!

This year marks the 6th annual Friends Who Care Association fundraiser. This year’s fundraiser is especially important to me because I lost someone very near and dear to me to cancer this past May, my Aunt Mary. My Aunt Mary had Down’s Syndrome, but was larger than life itself and inspired everyone she met. She was such a beautiful person and I think about her every day. Her face would light up a room and could make even the most stubborn person smile. Her soul was inspiring, and she still is to this day the most caring and exuberant person I’ve ever known.

When she was diagnosed with cancer in the summer of 2009, I was absolutely devastated, but she never stopped smiling! Through the chemotherapy and immense pain, my Aunt Mary remained vivacious and in good spirits. Even after she lost her hair and could no longer walk, she stayed positive and took tremendous joy in her wig, so she could do her hair with the girls, and a wheelchair, which enabled her to go places with us. My Aunt’s unyielding hope and eternal optimism throughout her battle with cancer gave me a new perspective on life. And now, more than ever, I am dedicated and driven to raise money that will help the others in our community who are also battling cancer.

To honor the life of my Aunt Mary and to commemorate her 47 glorious years, my goal this year is to raise $14,700.00, and I need your help! Your tax-deductible donation will not only help provide monetary assistance and life saving services, but will also instill hope and build confidence in those who are battling cancer! What sets the FWCA apart from other organizations is that all proceeds stay local, so your donation is guaranteed to help someone within our community or maybe even someone you know who is battling cancer! I will never be able to make someone smile the way my Aunt Mary did, but I will put forth every effort to shine a little light on those who are suffering like my Aunt did.

Every dollar counts and you CAN make a world of difference to someone in our community! So let your neighbors, your customers, and your community know that you are joining them in the fight! If you would like to help, you can send a donation, payable to the FWCA, to me at the address below. Tickets to our fundraiser dinner event on March 10th are now available and I look forward to seeing you there!

If you have any questions about the FWCA or this year’s fundraiser, please feel free to contact me and I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your generosity and support!

Sincerely,

Matt Vieira
FWCA President
47 Laurie Lane, Lowell, MA 01854