August 2010
Dear Pink Ribbon Riders,

I was first diagnosed with Breast cancer in January 2010 after a routine mammogram in December 2009, btw they thought the spot was nothing to worry about, but because my sister had breast cancer and a single mastectomy in 2004, and my mom had breast cancer with a lumpectomy in 1999, they thought they had better make sure. Thank God, because it was caught early enough. I went in for a bi-lateral mastectomy (my choice) February 24th. Because my cancer was Estrogen positive they did an “Oncotype” test on the cancer they removed, this is a very important test that they are doing on this type of cancer – and because of this test and where my numbers were I did not need to go through Chemotherapy, like my sister did. A very dear friend of mine lead me to Pink Ribbon Riders when I was first diagnosed. I filled out the application right away, mailed it in and by the time my Bi-lateral mastectomy was completed I had $500, to put towards my medical bills – this was such a God send for us, because the medical bills were really starting to pile up. I had my reconstruction process completed on the 27th of May, just 3 months after my Breast Cancer removal surgery!

These people at PRR are wonderful people – ready to help and very friendly. Thank you so much for all you do and thank you SO much for all of the sponsors – to some $500 is not a lot – but to us it meant the world!

Sincerely,

Kathy Fitzhenry

April 2010
Dear Pink Ribbon Riders,

I wanted to take the time to thank you for the generous grant that will help me pay for my surgery. It is times like these that we really appreciate the goodness and efforts of organizations such as yours. Last October I found a very small lump in my right breast which spiraled into biopsies, sonograms, MRI's, and finally surgery. The very small lump was cancer, but that did not compare to the DCIS tissue found in subsequent testing, and more cancer in my lymph nodes. It is now April and I am now in my third month of chemo. All of this happened just after I took a new job, changed locations, and bought a new house. My employer and fellow employees are the greatest support I could ever hope for and I have my family to help me through the rough times. I cry for every woman going through this same trauma in their lives. However, I am very optimistic in the future and am extremely grateful for the support of my team. I have enclosed a picture of me and my fiance at our first outing after surgery. (PS The hardest thing I deal with now is finding a good wig to wear).

Best Regards,

Lori (Lorraine) Hall
Newark, NY

April 2010
Dearest PRR:

I cried when I received the generous gift of $500 from your Organization.   I was first diagnosed with Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma back in Feb 06. I was 41 years old and my wedding was scheduled in April. I had a 2 lumpectomies a week apart from each other (they didn't get the margins the first time). 10 days later I went to Mexico and got married. I came home, had a reception and 2 days later started  35 radiation treatments. I was pregnant in Aug 06 w/ twins and lost them both (miscarriage). I got pregnant again with twins in Nov, and lost them both by January 07. That was the window I had to have children before starting Zolodex injections (which also prevent pregnancy) treatments.  My markers were PR+ and ER-. The next few years were a blur of every 3-4 month mammo's, oncologist appts, labs, and Zolodex shots to the stomach. The cost of each shot is and astounding 3200$   In Nov 09 Breast Cancer returned to the same breast but different area. I had a Bilateral Mastectomy on Dec 15th.   I missed Christmas,New Years, January and February. Dealing with BC a second time was far worse emotionally than the first time.  Due to the first round radiation treatments, my muscle under the breast was not eligible for a traditional tissue expander and implants. My plastic surgeon removed a muscle from my back to use for my right breast recon. Its amazing what they can do nowadays.   I was out of work for over 8 weeks due to the surgery, and countless other days due to Dr appointments, fatigue and pain. I am currently in PT to get my arm motion back. I am scheduled for Implants in May. I will be done with all reconstruction by August.   There are very few Organizations that can help the lower middle class person, like me, who is affected by BC. I have been scraping by just to get by. Thank God for the PRR Organization. Its bad enough to deal with all of the emotions of losing both breasts, let alone the financial burden it causes. Medical bills pile up, even though I have an 80/20 Health Insurance. Words cannot express how grateful I am to those who donate. Just when I began to feel hopeless, the Pink Ribbon Riders came to my rescue. My next mission is to pay it forward. I believe if I can help anyone with this disease it will truly help me to recover from the emotional scars it has left me with. I may carry the physical scars forever but I will not let Breast Cancer define me. I find strength in those who share the journey. I find strength in those who volunteer, donate, and participate. There are so many of us out there who suffer from this disease, and every single person who has ever donated, volunteered or got involved with the PRR is and ANGEL!!!

Tracy

February 2009
To all the Pink Ribbon Riders,

I would like to thank you for the $500. that I received from you on Feb.28that the awards dinner at the Old Barn in NY. It was truly an amazing event! It was so moving to see the out pour of all the caring and giving group of individuals before us that night and to see how such an effort is such a year long process. So many working very hard all through the year to make this event successful! It has meant a great deal to be a recipient. Everything helps in the fight against cancer. And it especially helps to see so many that care!

Thank you, Gweyne Meyers, Lowville, NY

January 2009
Thanks so much for a great event in Hill City, MN.

Thank you for the gift card.

Joyce Nordquist, MN

October 2008
To The Pink Ribbon Riders,

Thank you for choosing to help me with some of my bills. It was a welcome relief.

Very Truly yours,

Joan from Michigan

October 2008
Thank you form the bottom of my heart for my gift card I was given at the NY Snow Run event. The timing was perfect. I am a busy 1o month survivor and now is able to return the favor.

Terri, Dexter, NY

October 2008
Dear Pink Ribbon Riders,

I again say thanks for being a comfort to me while passing over the bumps down breast cancer road to recovery. The gift card truly was a blessing!

Frances Brown, NJ

August 2008
I wanted to express the carefree joy your donation provided. I want you all to feel good about what you do. It is a shame that people loose people to cancer, but the unity that it fosters for those left behind is a testament to the human spirit. Nothing is more noble than people helping people. I firmly believe in celebrating life now, because you may never get another chance. I know that the money raised by your organization allowed us to spend that money with out regrets, and it filled all of our hearts with fond, fun- filled memories. You can not put a price on that.

Thank you,

The Livingston Family, Battle Creek, MI

February 19, 2008
Jody,

I just received the gift card. Thank you and your partner very much. All your hard work is appreciated. Keep it up!! I go on Monday for a follow up mammo..yikes. Hopefully, all will go well.

Regards,

Leslie Cadmus, NJ

November 15, 2007
Everyday brings hope and possibilities

Dear Jody, Jane and the Pink Ribbon Riders,

First of all I want to thank you for all the kind and encouraging notes you have sent my way. You have checked on me on the way –and also thanks for the chocolate goodies! I am entering a difficult stage of treatment “post chemo” where I an attempting to reclaim my life and get back in the saddle, back to my teaching, training and judging. I am quite discouraged and depressed at the moment-still experiencing great fatigue and pain in my legs-keeps me from working and enjoying life in general. Four weeks since my last chemo, I guess it takes time.

Thank you for your loving support and friendship. Thank you again. Happy Thanksgiving to all. Happy Riding-hope you still have some good weather to enjoy.

With love and gratitude,

Barbara from Wyoming

January 2008
To Pink Ribbon Riders,

What a day brighter to receive a gift card for $500.00 in the mail. It will help me to purchase a good wig and some head coverings, as my hair is all gone. It will help me and my family with my 3 hour drives to chemo.

Again thank you Pink Ribbon Riders for all that you do for all cancer patients out there, we very much appreciate it.

Sincerely,

Breast cancer survivor from Minneapolis, MN

August 2010
I was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer in October of 2005. Since then, undergone surgery, chemotherapy treatments, and radiation therapy. I was blessed with 4 years of being cancer free. Then I was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer in November of 2009. Since then I've undergone six months of chemotherapy. Chemo will keep me alive for the rest of my life. God willing, that will be a long time.

I just want to thank the Pink Ribbon and it's sponsors for everything you've done for me. Your gift has helped me pay for excess expenses incurred from this disease. I know you have touched so many people and just want to say "God bless you all".

Love,

Wendy Hubbard
Beaver Dam, WI

Carrie Coombes story on being a "Thriver"

I am a 37 year old Wife, Mother, Grandma, Sister, Daughter, Aunt, Friend, College Student...THRIVER, residing in a small rural area surrounded by family and friends, making every day worth living and being a crusader for those who need help.

After talking to my son, Andrew, about how I should write this article on “thriving”, he told me to write what I know. So, what do I know about thriving? One thing I can tell you is that after being diagnosed with breast cancer you can be pessimistic and let it consume you or you can look for the “silver lining” and fight for your life. For me the only thing to do was to fight. I was not going to just lay there and wait for cancer to consume me and take my life. Having a wonderful family and friends has made me fight harder to overcome the obstacles that stood in the way. full story

July 2010
Dear Pink Ribbon Riders,

I received your generous gift card of $500; thank you for choosing to assist me with my expenses. As I said in my application, I work part time in an office and do not get paid when I am not at work. I have already purchased food, medicine, and paid partially for my new eyeglasses with your gift. It has lifted a load of worry from my shoulders knowing that I have these funds to fall back on when I need them.

I found out in April, 2010 that I have Triple Negative Breast Cancer. I had a lumpectomy and sentinal node biopsy in May, and started chemotherapy treatments in June. After the chemotherapy, I will have radiation treatments.

I am truly positive about my recovery, and with faith in God, and the work of the good people that are helping to take care of me, I will be well by this time next year!

I have met and worked with so many wonderful and caring people on this journey, including the Pink Ribbon Riders organization. Bless you for the work that you do!

I sincerely thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Christine from Michigan

May 2010
Dear Pink Ribbon Riders,

Thank You Very Much for your help! I never ask for it, but it was sure nice to have people out there to help me and my family out. This came as a great surprise, I am still scared and sometimes depressed, but this will help take the burden off our shoulders, God Bless you and your organization.

Thanks much,

Yvonne Ball

March 2010
Dear Pink Ribbon Riders,

I am writing in response to your generous donation of $500. I cannot tell you how much this is appreciated at this time of year. I am a RN diagnosed with breast cancer in June of 2009. It has been a wild roller coaster ride ever since. I found the lump a couple of months earlier, but ignored it as I thought it was a cyst, like I have had several times in the past. It continued to grow, so I decided I should have it checked. It was found to be an aggressive type of cancer. I had a mastectomy in July which was followed by aggressive chemotherapy for 12 weeks, then radiation therapy for 6 weeks, and another course of chemo which I should complete at the end of April. This has meant numeral trips to Grand Forks, which is a 240 mile round trip. We have good health insurance but we had to pay the deductible in June/July and now as the year begins, are required to again pay the deductible and coinsurance. This donation will be a great help in meeting those demands. I am pleased to report that I recently had a CT scan that was completely normal. We are praying for a complete recovery and are looking forward to spring! Thank you again for your generosity.

Sincerely,

Lynette Shock, ND

September 2009
Thank you so much for the wonderful gift of $500.00. It has made a world of difference not to have to worry of bills during my treatments. Your very generous gift has allowed me to take the week following each of my chemotherapy treatments off so that I can fully recover from the fatigue and achiness the medication causes. With out your support, there is no way we could have afforded this. Your organization and its volunteers are truly amazing. I am that I was fortunate enough to come across it. I look forward to attending a Pink Ribbon Riders events in the North Dakota/ Minnesota area.

Thanks again! Danea

February 2009
Dear Pink Ribbon Riders,

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, for the gift card of $500 and the gas card, t-shirt, the bottle of wine, from the Wisconsin dinner event. I only wish I could give back to you in some small way the kindness you have shown me, to anyone who has received gifts from you while battling breast cancer. The stories that I heard last week at the dinner of so many of the people there are heart wrenching and sad, but yet happy too, and I only pray that I shall be able to see you all next year in Wisconsin again, and in much better health than this year! what an incredible job the Pink Ribbon Riders are doing to raise awareness for breast cancer. It is so touching and heart warming. Thank you again, and I do hope to see you again next year.

Pam Truog, Wisconsin

May 2009
Dear Pink Ribbon Riders,

I would like to thank you for helping me in my time of need. You have no idea the perfect timing it was to receive my surprise gift in the mail on Tuesday. My car is in the garage and I was worried about paying for the repairs. You have lightened a burden of worry and stress that I did not need. I love you and I know you will be blessed 10 times over for the wonderful things you do. Words are not even enough to express my gratitude. In the future, when my life returns to normal I will always try to support your organization. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

Emma Ecklund, PA

October 2008
Pink Ribbon Riders,

Just want to thank you for all the fun we had at the motorcycle event. When I was nominated to receive funding from your organization, I thought it would be rather serious and boring. What a surprise. Instead my entire family was fed and treated like royalty. We had fin for a very serious cause. At the time, we needed some fun and were just what the doctor ordered. On march 29th, I received a call from my doctor saying I had breast cancer. On March 31st my husband died of a massive heart attack. My daughters and their families had to deal with a double tragedy. I am very fortunate to have been diagnosed in stage two; I feel very strongly that I can beat this cancer. However, chemo and radiation are no picnic. My family has been there for me every day. When I got sick, when I lost my hair, when I got down my daughters told me how great I am and how good I have handled this whole situation. I have drawn strength from them; they the real heroes in this story. They were so proud when I told them I was nominated. You made me feel like a hero, and my family like honored guests. We laughed and cried. You have a way of making fun but stressed the sadness and seriousness of breast cancer. I will use the money you gave me to finish paying for expenses associated with co-pays and gas to radiation, but then my niece has asked me to come to Maryland to visit. I can't wait to go!

This is a great opportunity for me and you have helped me make it happen. A vacation is just what I need and thanks to Pink Ribbon Riders I can go. Thank you over and over again. Please keep up the good work that you do. There are so many people with breast cancer that need help.

Judie Dellerba, New York

Summer 2008
Thank you Pink Ribbon Riders for your thoughtful gift. It is an extra burden paying just for gas to go back and forth for treatments. I joined Pink Ribbon Riders at your event in February 2008 in honor of friends & family who were diagnosed in the past & presently with breast cancer- now I too am a "survivor". I look forward to seeing you at the ride this year.

Thank you very much,

N. Berrus, Watertown Area, NY

May 2008
Dear Friends, I want to thank you for your kindness and help as we go through this cancer process. Knowing there are people out there who care makes it easier.

May the lord bless each of you.. John 3:16

Love, Frederica S., New York

February 16, 2008
Dear Jody and The Pink Ribbon Riders,

I was just writing to say thank you so much for the gift card. It has helped me immensely get many things that I needed as well as food in the house. You can not begin to understand what a relief it is to me. Attached to this is a story that I would love for you to share with others. I am an avid writer and this is my story. Please pass it on to pass on hope and confidence to others while facing this disease.

Also, I am writing you today to ask for your support in a very special mission. It has been my dream for a long time to start a web site dedicated to giving a real perspective on what it's like to live with meta static breast cancer. Through my web site I hope to be able to inspire people not to give up while providing a good dose of humor. I also would like to pass on a great deal of the accumulated sources that I now have as well. On my web site which is currently under construction www.justyshope.org. I wish to have a page with link to different web sites that have helped me over the past few months.

Allow me to please thank you all in advance for your cooperation in this and for all the help and support you have given me and my daughter.

Sincerely,

Justina Colon