Why I Ride: Valerie Halpren « Be the Difference Foundation

On February 26, 2017, I will participate in “Wheel to Survive,” an inspirational six hour indoor cycling event to raise money to help women batting ovarian cancer and to provide research dollars for a cure. 100% of the money I raise will go to fund these programs.

I am riding in memory of my best friend, my role model – my dear mother Flora and for all the other women who are and could be affected by this horrific disease.

My story: Thirty two years ago in Greensboro NC, my dear mother Flora Alberts lost her life to ovarian cancer. She died leaving 17 year old twin boys, I then 22 and an older brother.

She was a talented woman with a great flair, fashion sense and the owner of “Flora Jewelry.” Although September 24, 1984 was a long time ago, her diagnosis and her will to live are still vivid to this day. She was a fighter in every sense of the word. Her cup was always “half full” and her zest for life, her beautiful spirit and upbeat personality is forever in my heart.

No one should suffer the pain that this silent killer causes both physically and emotionally for the victim and their loved ones. My sincere hope is that one day soon an early diagnosis and a cure will be found so that others will not have to endure what my mother did.

Here are a few startling facts –

One woman is diagnosed with ovarian cancer every 24 minutes; 22,000 women this year. One woman dies from ovarian cancer every 37 minutes; 15,000 women this year. 70% of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will die from the disease and there is no reliable early detection test available for ovarian cancer.

Any tax-deductible donation would be greatly appreciated. You can also help me by sharing my page or link through email, Facebook, Twitter or by word of mouth.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support and for helping “Be the Difference” in the fight against ovarian cancer.

With Gratitude,

Valerie

Click here to show your support by making a donation to Valerie’s Wheel to Survive fundraising page, or register now to ride alongside Valerie and others as we fight to end ovarian cancer!