October 11, 2009
Dear
Friends and Supporters ,
We’re very excited to announce the
7th annual RALLYING AGAINST CANCER
HARDCORE (R.A.C.H.) 3-Pitch
Tournament is
scheduled for June
18-20 , 2010.
In memory of our daughter
Rachel, a devoted group of family and friends are again hosting a fun and friendly
competition.
All of the proceeds raised will benefit The R.A.C.H. Fund supporting the brain tumor research of Dr.
Jonathan Irish, Chief of the Department of Surgical Oncology at the University Health Network (UHN),
which includes Princess Margaret
Hospital.
In
November 2003, during her 2nd year of optometry school, Rachel was
diagnosed with an olfactory neuroblastoma. The tumour had spread through
her sinuses and into the frontal areas of her brain. Rachel fought with courage,
tenacity and grace as she underwent three surgeries, two rounds of radiation and
seven rounds of chemotherapy. In August 2005, Rachel Anne Cecilia Higgins
was promoted to angel status. In June 2006 Rachel was almost promoted to
Dr. status as the University of Waterloo granted posthumously Rachel’s Doctor of
Optometry, recognizing her dedication and determination to finish her studies
despite her illness.
Today, Dr.
Irish and his research team directs a number of projects specifically related to
esthesioneuroblastoma, the same tumor that affected Rachel. They have
reviewed the UHN’s clinical experience of esthesioneuroblastoma and presented
their findings to numerous scientific assemblies.
On a
patient level, their research includes a study of quality of life outcomes in
patients with cancers that originate along the base of the skull. On a
scientific basis, they’re researching the tumor at the molecular level to
determine how its markers link to patient outcomes. What we consider the
most exciting however, is the research directed toward new, more aggressive
surgical approaches to these “skull base tumors” and how the use of CAT scan
imaging during surgery can enable the surgeon to confidently avoid any
injury to adjacent critical structures.
Before
leaving us, Rachel along with her parents, many family members and countless
friends founded the RALLYING AGAINST CANCER HARDCORE or R.A.C.H.
committee. Initially, the committee’s efforts were designed to support
Rachel and others who like Rachel, were demonstrating courage and bravery in
their fight against cancer. The R.A.C.H. committee members continue
in their efforts to turn the tide in favor of those of us left behind.
We’re
thankful for the generosity you have extended to us in the past and invite you
to join our efforts again this year! A cash donation or a donation of an item
to be used in our silent auction, allows us to continue our quest to make a
difference! To date, we have collectively raised over $300,000
for The R.A.C.H. Fund.
Thank you
for taking the time to review our request. If you have any
questions, please visit our web site at
www.rallyingagainstcancerhardcore.org or call Joanne Higgins @ 705-342-5314.
Sincerel yours,
Joanne and
Tom Higgins
An Invitation to you & your family…
The
R.A.C.H. Committee
would like to invite you & your family to join the Parry Sound community in our
celebration of the life of Rachel Higgins at the 3rd Annual R.A.C.H.
three-pitch tournament.
TOGETHER WE CONTINUE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
With effort, enthusiasm & tenacity,
concerned individuals & groups can make a difference in the fight against
cancer. It can be beaten.
Where?
The Parry Sound Kinsman Ball Fields
When? Friday, June 18 to Sunday, June 20,
2010
The tournament will kick off on Friday evening with a
pickerel fish fry, silent auction, live music in the beer tent including a live
performance,
the band still to be announced.
How Can I Give My Support? Registering a team, making a cash donation or donating items for
the silent auction are all GREAT ways to support the tournament!
Need more information? To register a team or for more
tournament information, please visit our website at:
www.rallyingagainstcancerhardcore.org