When my Mom called and told me that she was diagnosed with stage iv metastatic breast cancer, my heart sank. That was March, 2003. Over the next few weeks I began learning more and more and none of it sounded promising. At that time, Dr. Dennis Slamon with UCLA’s Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation began making major strides in his research to fight breast cancer. Shortly after her diagnosis, we determined that we would start a charity golf tournament to raise funds for further breast cancer research. During October of 2005 we successfully launched our first golf tournament. With over a decade of events and support provided from around the world, we are so pleased to have donated over $1,600,000.00 to research. Our goal all along has been to provide first-class events that help bring awareness to our efforts and ultimately raises money to fund research. One of the coolest factors of our charity is that we do it out of love for the charity and the willingness to make a difference. Each person that sits on the board or helps with the event is a true volunteer and does not get paid. Over the last 14 years, we witnessed a sense of purpose in my Mom. She would tell me that she wanted to be the “poster child” for this awful disease so that she could bring hope and inspiration to others that were recently diagnosed. Her spirit was amazing. She had a strong desire to stay positive, watch her kids grow up and become a Grandma. And not just any Grandma, but the best Grandma that walked the planet. In April, 2017, my Mom’s battle came to an end. She decided that she had done enough. It was time for others to take the baton and carry on her legacy. She passed away so elegantly at home surrounded by her family. The love and support that all of you have shown to us over the years will never be forgotten. My Mom will forever be in the fabric that is Par for The Cure. Just take a look at this picture of her. She had the greatest smile. Every time that we host an event or make a donation from here on out, it will be in her memory and the memory of so many that were so courageous and awesome. She has touched the lives of thousands, and we will miss her so much. If you get a moment, please take the time to spread our name and mission to your network of friends and colleagues. While breast cancer may not be affecting your family and friends now, there are so many that are being affected by it. Help them out. Give them a kind pat on the back, or a quick phone call or text. Or make a donation in their honor. I realize that you have many choices in charities to support, but if you find a way to show our charity your support, we will be forever grateful to you. Please remember that through site like the kindness and generosity of many, our event has become a huge success. Together, we do make a difference… Please join us.
Sincerely,
Brian J. Esposito
Founder, Par for The Cure
