As many of you know, on May 20, 2008 our son, brother and brother-in-law, Joel, underwent an endoscopy to remove what was believed to be ulcers, but instead, learned that he had been diagnosed with Stage IV Esophageal Cancer. Joel, April, and their three young children, Rachel (9), Daphne (7) and Vincent (5), quickly went into attack-mode to fight this dreadful and incurable cancer. Joel began seeing a team of doctors at IU Medical Center immediately, and their lives have been changed forever. Prior to this, Joel's symptoms were similar to what one would attribute to stress, ulcers, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, discomfort, and heartburn. While our family has desperately sought to find some purpose in all of this suffering, we continue to appreciate the steadfast prayers of so many. Thus, we are choosing to allocate our time and energy into the PeighItForward Classic Benefit. Our short term goal is to host a golf benefit for Joel and his family. All benefit proceeds this year will be given to Joel’s family to assist with their medical and daily living expenses. Our long term goal is to increase awareness of Esophageal Cancer through education, prevention, early detection, and related research. Additionally, Joel has expressed his desires for a portion of the future proceeds to go towards assisting other families affected by a cancer and who are struggling to meet daily expenses. It continues to be significant that we are all touched by Joel's philosophy of life which he has expressed so well on www.peighitforward.com. Joel established this blog site early after his diagnosis so that his children will realize how the prayers and support of so many have helped their father cope with his illness. On August 15, 2009, we will host a golf benefit. We would appreciate your consideration in regard to how you are led to get involved for Joel in this event. Your participation may include: inviting a four-some to the golf outing sponsoring/advertising your business making a personal donation Moving forward, we are in the process of establishing this foundation and sharing many dreams for the possibilities it may hold. Please be advised that since we are not yet established as a foundation all contributions to this endeavor will not be tax deductible this year. However, all of your contributions will be directed to Joel's family as a benefit. We are planning to incorporate future activities and events under the regulations of this legally established foundation. Additionally, Joel and April continue to update their blog site and value hearing from all of you at www.peighitforward.com.
