On December 3, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance will join nonprofits around the world in observing GivingTuesday. This day of giving is a powerful counterpoint to Black Friday and Cyber Monday—a time to give back, to be a part of something, change lives, and maybe even change the world. We asked allies Domenic, Chelle, and Michelle why they plan to give on GivingTuesday.
Domenic Mattei, Caregiver
“I’ll never forget the doctor’s words: ‘Holly’s scan is showing positive for a 100% colon blockage and it has metastasized to her liver and lungs.’ Hearing that my wife had colorectal cancer was like receiving a blow to the head with a sledgehammer.
In that instant, my role changed from husband to caregiver.
Thankfully, I found the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. The Alliance treated us like family and provided support during Holly’s next steps and our most difficult time. Without the Alliance, I never would have been able to provide the care Holly needed or found my way through Holly’s journey.
As a passionate ally this GivingTuesday, I’m keeping Holly’s memory alive. With the money collected, the Alliance will be able to provide research, funds for screening, and support for patients and caregivers alike.
My goal is to see colorectal cancer eradicated in our lifetime so no one has to lose their soulmate!”
Chelle Benner, Survivor
“I don’t completely remember the conversation with my doctor, but when I hung up the phone, I knew I had stage-IIIc rectal cancer. And so it began—scans, hard conversations, chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation.
I knew I’d fight with every ounce of my being to live for my amazing husband, my beautiful daughter and for myself! I found Blue Hope Nation on Facebook, which lead me to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and its Buddy Program and support group chat.
With the Alliance, I found a support system of people just like me. My Buddies made me believe in the future again. My chat room peeps answered all my questions, cried with me, and laughed with me, too—these were people I had never met but who helped me through some of my darkest days.
I’ll choose the Alliance this GivingTuesday because they provide an amazing support system and because they are committed to finding a cure for this disease in our lifetime. I am honored to be an Ally!”
Michelle Cappel, Survivor
“This GivingTuesday, I choose to support the Colorectal Cancer Alliance because their mission to screen, care, and cure means the world to me! I count on the Alliance to support me on my journey in battling this horrific disease.
After being diagnosed with stage-IV colorectal cancer at age 41, the Alliance became a loving part of my family. The Alliance is here to guide people to new and innovative treatment techniques, assist in locating clinical trials, providing support groups—but, most importantly, to understand what life with colorectal cancer is like.
Giving on GivingTuesday will mean that more people will be able to join our family—our nation of allies—and get the care and support they need. Please join me in giving to this life-changing organization, so that it may continue its efforts to end colorectal cancer in our lifetime!”
There are plenty of reasons to give. Please join our nation of allies in giving help and hope to the many patients and their families facing a colorectal cancer diagnosis this GivingTuesday. Click here to donate.