lls ltn newsletter albany vol 4 issue 1 final
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2014 Light the Night Walk
Registration is Now Open!
Saturday, October 11, 2014
Siena College
(515 Loudon Road, Loudonville, NY)
Registration, food and festivities begin
at 5:00 p.m. sharp.
Register your Walk team, join an
existing team, or sign up as an
individual today by clicking here.
For more information about the Walk,
fundraising ideas and/or selling paper
balloons, please contact Light the
Night Campaign Manager, Jennifer
Clunie, at:
(518) 438-3583 X 2565
Upstate New York/Vermont Chapter
Albany Walk Newsletter
http://www.lightthenight.org/uny/ Volume 4 Issue 1 April 2014
Page 1
Inside this Issue:
Avery Lyons: Honored Hero
Craft Fair
LTN T-Shirt Contest
Advocacy Corner
Are You RELENTLESS?
RELENTLESS Wristbands for Sale
Welcome 2014 Corporate Sponsors
Save the Dates!
Finding a Cure is Everyone’s
Business
All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner
Bowling Night
LTN Fundraising Mentor Request
Cancer 101: Free Patient Education
Program
Spring to Life Conference
Carol Miller and Dona Stone Named Corporate
Co-Chairs for the 2014 Light The Night Walk
Corporate Walk Teams Being Recruited
The Upstate New York/Vermont Chapter of
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)
named Carol Miller, Director of Special
Events, and Dona Stone, PHR Director of
Human Resources at Rifenburg
Companies, Corporate Walk Co-Chairs of
the 2014 Light The Night Walk.
This annual event raises critical funds for
cancer research and patient services on
behalf individuals and families affected by
blood cancers in the Capital Region.
Ms. Miller and Ms. Stone were part of the
executive committee last year that
increased corporate sponsorships more
than $20,000 over the previous year and
set new levels for fundraising for the
Upstate New York Chapter.
They will work together with the guidance of
corporate chair emeritus Tami Gunsch,
Sr. VP of Retail Banking at Berkshire Bank.
LLS holds Light the Night Walks each fall in
approximately 200 communities across the
United States and Canada.
Participants at the walks carry illuminated
lanterns – white for patients and survivors,
red for supporters, and gold in memory of
loved ones lost – to honor and
commemorate lives touched by blood
cancer. In the Capital Region, the walk will
take place on Saturday, October 11th, 2014
at Siena College.
Ms. Miller and Ms. Stone look forward to
working together to make this year’s event
better than ever.
“It was very thrilling and memorable last
year to look out over a sea of illuminated
lanterns carried by friends and families of
survivors, as well as survivors themselves
stepping out to support LLS in battling
blood cancers,” said Ms. Stone.
“LLS is truly a worthy organization and
doing so much to improve the lives of those
afflicted,” added Ms. Miller. “Light The Night
encompasses all ages and abilities. We
look forward to encouraging Corporations in
the Capital Region to become Sponsors
and participate in this unique autumn
evening that truly shines.”
Funds raised through corporate and
individual contributions help to find cures
and better therapies for leukemia,
lymphoma, Hodgkins disease and
myeloma, and provide information,
education and support for patients and their
families.
(Article continues on page 3)
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Carol Miller and Dona Stone
Albany Walk Newsletter
Avery Lyons
2014 Light The Night Walk Honored Hero
Avery’s journey began on January 29, 2013 - just 11 days
shy of her 1st birthday. It started with weeks of not sleeping,
followed by lack of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, labored
breathing, rapid heartbeat, blood in her urine, double ear
infections, and fever that had risen to 105+ Fahrenheit.
Upon a visit to Avery’s pediatrician, her mother Erika was
informed that Avery was far too ill for an ear infection or a
urinary tract infection. They were rushed to Albany Medical
Center, where staff would be waiting.
Avery was whisked away to a room immediately and doctors
and nurses appeared every few minutes. Erika told her
daughter’s story several times to each new doctor and nurse
who appeared. Blood work was completed, x-rays, and
medications given all in a short period of time.
“Then,” Erika recalls, “our world was turned upside down in
just a blink of an eye. Several doctors entered the room and
circled us. They informed us that Avery was being admitted
to the hematology oncology unit, where she would receive a
much needed blood transfusion and they wanted permission
to complete a bone marrow aspiration. First thing the
following morning, January 29, 2013, Avery was diagnosed
with Leukemia.”
Avery spent the next month in the hospital. She was there for
her 1st birthday, but was far too sick to celebrate or even
smile or giggle that day.
A port was surgically implanted in Avery’s chest to deliver
her treatments and blood transfusions.
Each day seemed like a blur with new viruses appearing and
new symptoms from the chemotherapy drugs to watch out
for. A few weeks later, Avery was finally discharged to go
home; she and her family would make frequent trips to
Albany Medical Center for treatments.
How did they become involved with Light the Night
Walk?
Erika states, “Avery had so many people praying for her and
cheering her on each and every day. Then one day there
was an advertisement for the Light the Night Walk on the
computer. It was then that Avery’s Army was invented!
We were signed up to walk at Light the Night on September
28, 2013. It was going to be a night to celebrate Avery and
her courageous fight the past 9 months. A night to celebrate
how far Avery had come. What was envisioned to be a
gathering of about 50 people (mostly family and a few close
friends) tuned into a true ARMY.
When we gathered on the night of the Walk, Avery and her
army of 200 people dressed in Avery’s Army matching shirts
invaded Siena College.
We were there to show Cancer that we are bigger, stronger,
and would fight harder to get rid of it forever! And, that’s just
the beginning of Avery’s Army.
We will be back again year after year to show Cancer that
we won’t give up, that we will fight back, and we will win!”
Page 2
Avery Lyons
Avery’s Army
Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 3
Corporate Co-Chairs for the 2014
Light The Night Walk
(Continued from page 1)
“Light The Night Walk gives hope to patients and their
families and lets them know they are not alone in their battle
against cancer,” said Upstate New York/Vermont Chapter
Executive Director, Maureen O’Brien Thornton.
To find out more about forming a team or participating in a
Light The Night Walk, contact the Upstate New York/
Vermont chapter at (518) 438-3583 or visit
www.lightthenight.org/uny
Craft Fair to Benefit
the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
Light the Night Walk
Sunday, April 27, 2014
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Mechanicville Elks Club
(Park Avenue, Mechanicville)
VISIT OUR BOOTH!
Scarves, Aprons, Jewelry, Flip Flops,
Cards, Candy and more!
LTN T-Shirt Contest Announcement
Are you known for your creativity or often described as
having an eye for detail?
The 2014 Light The Night T-Shirt design competition is
underway! Our goal is to extend awareness about the Light
The Night Walk campaign beyond existing social
communities, and allow the Light The Night Walk community
to be a part of the campaign in a meaningful and public way.
Contest begins Monday, March 24th.
Designs must be submitted by midnight ET, April 18, 2014
on https://www.facebook.com/lightthenightlls
All entries will be judged by a panel of LLS staff, selecting
two finalists. Voting for two finalists begins on April 21, 2014.
Finalists designs will be posted on LTN Facebook page,
utilize likes as a voting mechanism.
Voting closes at 11:59 p.m. ET on May 1, 2014.
The winner will be announced on May 2, 2014
on http://www.facebook.com/lightthenightlls
The winner and image of the design will also be featured in
our e-newsletter and national blog post.
Designs will be judged on the following criteria:
• Concept/originality
• Captures spirit of the Light The Night Walk
• Striking and memorable design
• Visibility - eye-catching and visible from a reasonable
distance
• Completeness of design - must be ready for print
• Feasibility/must be easy to reproduce
LLS staff members are not eligible to enter.
The contest is open to the general public. Spread the word
throughout your community, and be sure to share the
attached Rules and Guidelines PDF.
2014LTNT-ShirtRulesandGuidelines31714.pdf
Please contact Kristin Hoose at [email protected] with
any questions. Thank you and good luck!
Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 4
In the next hour, 17 people will be newly diagnosed with
blood cancer. All of them will face an uphill battle, but the
road will be far steeper for those who won't have access to
treatment...
With just a few clicks, you can help them survive.
Tell your members of Congress to prioritize finding a cure for
cancer and ensuring that cancer patients can access the
medications they need to stay alive.
Already this month, we helped pass the Gabriella Miller Kids
First Research Act which will designate $126 million for pedi-
atric disease research – a huge victory for children facing
cancer. And that's only the beginning.
We're aiming to collect 5,000 petition signatures by May 7,
when we will deliver them by hand during our visits with
legislators. Will your name be on the list?
Sign your letter today: tell Congress to support cures and
access to treatment for blood cancer patients.
Over the last 60 years, we've seen historic advances in
cancer treatments and the search for a cure. We're on the
threshold of amazing scientific breakthroughs that require
our continued support, even while we're pushing to make
sure that patients can access medication that will help them
treat and beat their cancer.
Your support – and the influence you have with your elected
officials – is crucial to keeping this work going.
Right now, there is legislation in Congress that could
make a life-changing difference for cancer patients and
their families, including:
• Legislation which would help fund research and advance
cures.
• The Part D Beneficiary Appeals Fairness Act (S. 1365/
H.R. 2827) will ensure that seniors with cancer can
access the medications they need without being held
back by insurance companies' restrictive "specialty tiers"
drug designations.
• The Patients' Access to Treatments Act would end
harmful "specialty tiers" drug pricing that makes it harder
for patients to afford the treatments they need – ending
this practice would give patients the treatments they need
to survive.
Getting these bills passed would change countless lives
for the better, won't lead to significant cost increases for
insurance companies, employers, or the government, and
will give cancer patients a better chance at overcoming
the odds. But it won't happen without you!
Stand up for cures and access: send your letter to
Congress now, and we'll personally deliver your signature
on May 7.
Your action today may consist of just a few clicks, but it's
a crucial part of building a movement that can transform
the future of cancer treatment – and the lives of cancer
patients everywhere.
Thanks in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Scott Riccio
Office of Public Policy
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
Ta
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Ac
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Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 5
Are you RELENTLESS?
Register to Walk by May 1st and you’ll be entered for a
chance to WIN.
Begin team building and fundraising for Light the Night this
Spring and be entered into a special drawing to win a warm
LLS/Light the Night custom hoodie sweatshirt (unisex size
Large). All Albany Walk participants who register before May
1st have a chance to win.
Don’t miss your chance – register today by clicking here.
Welcome to our
2014 Corporate Sponsors!
Please join us in thanking these companies for their
outstanding commitment to blood cancer patients in our
community.
Shining Star Sponsor
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Miracle Maker Sponsor
Berkshire Bank
Bright Lights Sponsors
Aflac New York EMI Guide Rail, LLC
Hilton Garden Inn –Troy RJ Valente
Team Tent Sponsor
Clover Leaf Nurseries
Illuminations Sponsor
Freihofer’s
Route Sponsor
Afsco Fence Supply Co Inc Miller-Valentine Group
Quality Printing
“RELENTLESS” Wristbands:
All it Takes is $1 and a Dream!
Team Just Believe is selling red rubber RELENTLESS
wristbands with the LLS blood drop logo as a visible way to
increase awareness of blood cancers and support their Light
the Night Walk team.
On April 23rd, team members will be selling in the campus
center (SUNY Albany Uptown Campus). Students are also
being encouraged to sell on their own individual time as
well. For selling 10 bracelets, students will be awarded one
hour of community service time.
If you are interested in purchasing a RELENTLESS
wristband, contact Team Captain Brenda Talbot at
[email protected] or 518-728-8813.
Save the Dates!
• May 19: New York State Mission Day. Join the Upstate NY/
VT Chapter and the four other NYS chapters in Albany to
meet with legislators and advocate for legislation that will
help cancer patients access the care they need. You can
check out our blog for more information on bills. RSVP to
Michael required.
• Thursday, June 12th: Corporate Recruitment Event from
6:00-8:00 p.m. at Hilton Garden Inn, Troy
• Friday, July 25th: Team Captain Kick-Off Celebration from
12:00-1:30 p.m. at Saratoga Raceway and Casino, Saratoga
Springs
• Saturday, October 11th: 2014 Light the Night Walk
5:00 p.m. at Siena College, Loudonville
Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 6
Want to get your workplace or company involved?
As a Corporate Walk Team, you can make a difference to
the millions of people whose lives are touched by blood
cancer. The funds raised by your company or organization
will be invested in critical cancer research, patient services
and other activities to help enhance, prolong and save the
lives of people with leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma.
Team Captain responsibilities include:
• Managing the process internally, from setting goals to
recruiting co-captains and enlisting senior staff at your
organization to offer their strong endorsement of Light The
Night
• Recruiting co-workers in your organization and their family
and friends to join the Walk and raise funds
• Building and maintaining momentum, team enthusiasm and
spirit up to and during the event
• Forwarding correspondence from The Leukemia &
Lymphoma Society staff to your team members
• Collecting money and ensuring it gets to The Leukemia &
Lymphoma Society staff
• Celebrating your group’s success at the Light The Night
Walk, and thanking the appropriate people after the event
Light the Night
Team Fundraisers
Come out and support your fellow Light the Night Walk team
with the upcoming fundraisers listed in this newsletter.
Have an event of your own to share? Please email
[email protected] with the information, and we will help
get the word out via our Blog, Facebook page and upcoming
newsletters.
Want to become a Light the Night MEGA TEAM?
Corporate and Friends & Family Teams who raise $5,000 or
more receive the following benefits:
• Tent and table provided in top fundraising area at Walk
• Podium recognition during event presentation
• Express Registration: avoid the lines!
• Recognition on big screen night-of
• Recognition in chapter LTN publications and website
• Catered food and beverages in tent
• Invitation to and recognition at post-Walk LLS Awards Party
• Onsite personal assistant assigned to team night of Walk
• Copy of team photo for all team walkers
We’re Here to Help!
For assistance on forming a Walk team, creating a fund-
raising goal and plan, establishing a team timeline, planning
internal team kick-off, or general questions, please contact
Jennifer Clunie, Light the Night Campaign Manager at:
(518) 438-3583 X 2565
Shop at Healthy Living Market
in May and Support LLS
Healthy Living Market is once again partnering with LLS to
sell paper balloons during the month of May to support the
Light the Night Walk in both their South Burlington, VT and
Saratoga Springs, NY locations. Big, big thanks to Healthy
Living Market for helping us year after year!
Finding a Cure is Everyone’s Business – Form a Corporate Walk Team
Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 7
Join our Event on Wednesday, April 16!
All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner
Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 8
Join our Event on Saturday, May 10!
Bowling Night
Saturday, May 10, 2014
Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 10
Join our Free Patient Education Program on Thursday, April 17!
Cancer 101: Everything You Want To Know, But Are Afraid To Ask
Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 11
Join our Event on Sunday, April 27
Raising Dough: Social Responsibility
Click on the icon to like the
Upstate NY/Vermont Chapter
on Facebook!
Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 12
Join our Free Patient Education Program on Saturday, May 3
Spring to Life Conference
Have You Visited our New Light the Night BLOG?
The Upstate New York/Vermont Chapter of LLS has launched our own Blog to share stories, information, fundraising ideas
and news related to our Light the Night Walks in Albany and Burlington. Please click here to read our blog posts and to
subscribe.
Albany Walk Newsletter
Page 13
Join the TEAM that’s saving lives,
One mile at a time!
We'll help you to meet new friends, get into better shape, and
make your mark in the fight against blood cancers, all while
training for and completing a full or half marathon, century ride
or triathlon!
Whether you’re new to endurance events, or you’re a pro, we’d
love to have you on the TEAM that saves lives, one mile at a
time!
Registration is open for the following events, so please check
www.teamintraining.org/uny for more information and updates!
Lake George Triathlon
Rock ’n’ Roll Philadelphia ½ Marathon
Marine Corps Marathon
Albany Dunkin’ Run 5k/10k
Help us to turn cancer patients into cancer survivors by joining
the TEAM and making your personal achievement meaningful
to so many others!
All abilities are welcome!
To learn more about how you can participate, contact
Campaign Manager, Charly Mallet for details at:
(518) 438-3583
Register online at www.teamintraining.org/uny
Mother’s Day is fast approaching –
the Alex & Ani Lighthouse Bangle
makes a great gift!
Exciting news: September – December 2013 results of Alex
and Ani Lighthouse Bangle sale have just been released.
Nationally, Alex and Ani has raised an incredible $89,671 from
the LLS bangle, with $2,280.32 in sales credited toward the
Upstate New York/Vermont chapter.
Remember: 20% of profits from the “Charity by Design”
Lighthouse Bangle will continue to be directed toward the Light
the Night Walk until September 2014.
Mother’s Day is fast approaching and the Lighthouse
Bangle makes a great gift - get it while you can!
Shop locally at either of two stores in the Upstate New York/
Vermont Chapter area:
Burlington, Vermont:
207 College Street |Burlington, VT 05401 | (802) 497-3609
Saratoga Springs, NY:
327 Broadway | Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 | (518) 871-1638
Or order directly online:
http://www.alexandani.com/collections/charity-by-design/
lighthouse-charm-bangle.html
Invitation for Articles, Short Stories
We invite you to contribute to our newsletter by submitting
educational articles, short inspirational stories, poems and
quotations. Articles and stories should not exceed 500 words.
Please e-mail all submissions in Word format to
Remember to include your name, town, e-mail address and
any sources quoted.
(Designed, produced and published by
PRiyaCOMM for the Upstate New York /
Vermont Chapter of LLS)
T: 845.849.2205 F: 845.240.1199
[email protected] Public Relations & Communications