In a Perfect World...

When I was asked once again to encourage everyone to donate the gift of life, I said “yes” immediately. That was easy. The hard part came when thinking of the honorees of this year’s blood drive. I thought in a perfect world, cancer would not exist and I would be urging donation for faceless, nameless recipients. But we all know that is not the case, and the very least any of us can do to progress toward perfection is to do our part.  Unfortunately, two of our dear mothers are battling this monster and you have the chance to help the fight.

Mary Kate Fuller, who also happens to be an alumna and Mary Blair’s mother, is a living example of victory over cancer. She has been valiant throughout the ordeal and, thankfully, now restored to health. Kerin Riley, mother of Anna and Kaitlyn ’11, is in the midst of her battle and needs our support and strength.

Countless resources will educate any reader about blood’s necessity, but my intent here is to ask you to infuse these ladies with the knowledge that they are not alone in their fight. Emotional and physical health are inextricably intertwined, so please join me in helping to lift these warriors’ resolve and determination by honoring them with our blood donations. I challenge you to make this the largest, most successful drive ever, and in so doing, show Kerin and Mary Kate we’re fighting right along with them toward a perfect world!