It’s that time of year again. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Gloria Gemma Foundation is getting ready for its annual Flames of Hope: A Celebration of Life.

I am planning to carry a torch in this year’s Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation’s Illuminations of Life Ceremony and Torch Procession beginning at dusk on Saturday, October 5, 2019, at the State House in Providence.

I’m carrying the torch this year in memory of my mom, Margaret Del Sesto, who died of ovarian cancer, my sister Jean Pattek, who died of blood cancer, and my sister Susan Lennon who died of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.  This is bittersweet for me as I carry my torch in their memory on the weekend of the 20-year anniversary of my mom’s death on October 6th, and the weekend of my sister Jean’s birthday, which is also October 6. And Susan’s birthday, September 12th. What better way to remember them and those who suffer from cancer and have battled this disease?  I carry the torch one day; I carry them in my heart all year long.  The light shines bright on their memory.  

I carry the torch to remember all who have battled this fight! Their memories live on in all our hearts. Their battles will never be forgotten.

If you want to donate, you may. All donations are tax deductible and are asked to be made by Monday, September 30th.  Donations made online using the secure link below will go direct to my torch fundraising page.

TORCH DONATION LINK. Click here.

 Those wishing to donate by check please make checks payable to the “Gloria Gemma Foundation” and mail to me at:

Joanne Giannini
584 Pleasant Valley Pkwy.
Providence, RI 02908

About the Gloria Gemma Foundation (from their page)

“Once a year, thousands of people gather to light the way towards hope and healing for anyone touched by breast cancer. Gloria Gemma’s Flames of Hope: A Celebration of Life™ was created to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month by turning the city of Providence PINK and sparking a movement to inspire awareness, compassion, and support. This weekend-long celebration embraces everyone who has been impacted by cancer.”

JOIN US for the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation’s annual Flames of Hope: A Celebration of Life. One spectacular weekend featuring three incredible events: Passport to Survivorship at the Rhode Island Convention Center & Omni Providence (FREE), Celebration of Life Festival right in Station Park (FREE), the Gloria Gemma Run-Walk Series. 

Details on weekend activities and ticketed events available here.

 

Featured image: Background captured from Gloria Gemma page promoting the Flames of Hope event.