Lymphoma and Myeloma Awarenes... Health Article

Each year, families across the nation take a step in the right direction to further the fight against blood cancers.

More than 670,000 Americans are afflicted with leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma.

To raise money for research and patient services, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society sponsors the Light The Night Walk. At this annual fall event held throughout the U.S., teams of coworkers, families, and friends walk together in twilight holding illuminated balloons—white for survivors and red for supporters. The walk commemorates lives touched by blood cancer—like that of Coby Bassin.

Coby, 4, was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), the most common form of leukemia in children, at just 17 months. “When I found out Coby had leukemia,” says his mom, Tamara Bassin, “it was like someone was stepping on my chest. I couldn’t even say the word ‘leukemia’ out loud.”

From research, Tamara learned that the cure rate for ALL increased from 4% in 1960 to 85% in 1999. “I felt so fortunate. As a result of all of the research through the years, we have an 85% chance of beating this cancer. I told myself, ‘We are going to get through this.’ “

Soon after Coby was diagnosed, the Bassin family joined The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night Walk. “When one person loses their battle with cancer, it’s one too many,” says Tamara, who adds that she felt welcomed and supported at her first walk. “When I saw all the cancer survivors and their white balloons, it gave me strength.” She and her family, who have been walking every year since, also enjoy the event’s festivities, which include music, food and family activities.

The Light The Night Walk includes many corporate teams. “Corporate walking teams not only help fund important blood cancer research, they enhance employee morale, build team skills, gain visibility and generate goodwill for companies in their communities,” explains Anthony Buffone, the event’s national director.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research and providing education and patient services.

To learn more, call 877-LTN-WALK (877-586-9255) or visit the Web site at www.lightthenight.org.