I am excited to announce my plans for 2019. This year I will be hiking the Appalachian Trail from Georiga to Maine. This endeavor will take about six months to complete and the trail is 2,200 miles long stretching from the Smokey Mountains to the Shendohas and finishing on Mount Katahdin. I will be hiking to bring awareness and raise funds for the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation. I have chosen this specific foundation because they hold a special place in my heart. In 2016 I had been misdiagnosed with breast cancer and during that time the Lung Cancer Foundation had already begun to help me, even though at the time I had not yet been diagnosed with lung cancer. I am overcome with the amount of empathy and determination they have to help those who've been affected by Lung cancer. When I was frozen in fear and overwhelmed by a devastating diagnosis they gave me guidance and encouragement. They were and continue to be instrumental in my overall well being. Words are not enough when it comes to showing my complete and absolute appreciation for the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation.

This foundation is an incredible resource for anyone who has been touched by lung cancer, from the patient to the patient advocates. I would like to return the favor and support the lung cancer foundation by doing this hike. I plan to raise awareness about key issues pertaining to lung cancer. For example, the importance of early detection, that more women are being affected (killing more women than breast cancer and ovarian cancer combined!), that it isn't just a smokers disease, just to name a few. The information about lung cancer needs to become more mainstream knowledge. People need to know the facts so together we can stand up to cancer and make an impact. Lung Cancer is also one of the LEAST funded cancer while being one of the most deadly!

I ask those of you who know me or know someone who has been affected to contribute $20 to the 2 million for $20 campaign to further Lung Cancer research. Every mile and section I hike I am asking for sponsorship, $20 per mile. I love knowing that each step I take is a step closer to a cure! I want you to be a part of the adventure! Life is crazy like a roller coaster, full of ups, downs and unexpected twists. So take a seat, strap in, raise your hands or close your eyes, let the wind push your hair back, let the excitement take you over and enjoy the ride!