Lisa,
I agree it is so disheartening to realize that even the American Cancer Society staff and volunteers don't know much about oral cancer. I am happy to say that there are a few more people in my area that are now a bit more informed.
The night I was to give the talk at the Relay, we got rained out. Actually "lightninged" out because rain alone doesn't deter them. We stood there for a couple hours counting between the flashes and finally gave up and scheduled the ceremony for the next morning.
While waiting, I talked with many of the volunteers and one staff member. Because of their questions and interest in Heather's case and their obvious lack of oral cancer facts, I went home and rewrote much of my speech. The other speaker couldn't make it the next morning, so I took advantage of the extra time.
I was afraid I would break down and not be able to finish. I did almost lose it a few times, but was able to go on. The worst thing was that I had taken a picture of Heather and Cati to show at the beginning of the speech. But I had a microphone in one hand and my notes in the other, so one of the volunteers offered to hold the picture. She held it through the entire speech, which was fine, except that she kept sniffling. The more I heard her cry, the more I felt myself starting to do the same. So I was trying to surreptitiously move far enough away so I couldn't hear her. At the same time, I'm trying to remember my speech. I had rehearsed the previous week, but since I added stuff at the last minute, I made notes so I could keep on track. But there was no podium to lay anything down and the mike was so fat, I had trouble holding it and turning the pages at the same time. It was a sight to see!
I know Heather's story made an impact, though, because when I was done and went to where several of the volunteers were sitting, everyone was in tears. Thank goodness I wasn't close enough to hear them while speaking or I would have lost it for sure!
Since I stressed how helpful OCF was, I have now been asked to write a small piece for the ACS's local newsletter about OCF. I gave them an info card and a lady who is an employee of a dental company asked for a card also. So at least a few people are more aware of oral cancer now. Brian, maybe I should ask what you want written for the newsletter. Or maybe you already have a small piece written that would be appropriate. Can you tell I need help?!? LOL!
This Relay was actually in a neighboring county, so I'm going to attend my county's Relay at the end of June, so I can compare speeches and see how badly I did! LOL!
Well, enough gibberish for now. I haven't been on the forum much lately, so I need to catch up on all the news. I will see you all in Vegas, though!
Rainbows & hugs,
Rosie
