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Letter from the FounderI love music. Rhythm touches everybody :: we breathe :: we blink :: we’ve all got a heartbeat .... DrumsForCures was created as a natural expression of our family's desire to be a vibrant part of beating cancer. Since rhythm is universal we decided that an event centered around the art and fun of hands on drumming would be a great way to bring people together. Our mission is to provide a vehicle for health entities and cancer societies to show communities the resources at hand to assist in directing and easing cancer concerns. Facilitating the ‘introduction’ and advancement of important organizations supporting those dealing with cancer, promoting early detection and working towards cures is our goal, and a cause that is close to my heart. At fifteen, our son, Mason, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (a rare bone cancer) and underwent months of chemo and extensive surgeries. Difficult questions were raised and answers were vague. During the many phases of this adventure Mason has met some very impressive people - young and old - many who have boldly walked away from their cancer experience and some who haven’t. All have inspired us. Lance Armstrong recognized Mason as one of “the next generation of generals in the war against cancer.” My brother, mother, father and myself have survived our own personal challenges with cancer as well. My wife, younger son and friends are all too familiar with the impact this has on life.
My family is convinced that there have to be better methods to assist those affected by cancer including early detection/diagnosis, alternative and/or less brutal treatments, more personalized, problem-specific rehab practices, age-specific social and family support and early childhood education. We believe that research, education and support for survivors needs to be fortified through community and government efforts. Mason, Toby, Carola and I came home from the 2006 Lance Armstrong Foundation’s ‘Ride for the Roses’ event in Austin, TX full of inspiration and hope. We learned of superhuman, death defying efforts to raise awareness and funds to support cancer survivorship. I chose to direct my community efforts, talents and energies to do the same. Our concept is simple :: DrumsForCures produces drumSTRONG, the multicultural, musical, charity events showcasing available resources that support people with cancer and those who love them. We promote cancer health, education, research and survivorship support through collaborative efforts and through rhythm :: Globally! drumSTRONG is the conduit. Our all-volunteer effort creates a hub and outlet for all parties. Drums are the perfect communicator. Rhythm welcomes and embraces all who participate. Music truly engages all ages, wages and stages of health... We’re not another walk, run, ride or golf tournament simply trying to raise $; We gather folks to rhythm (drum for crazy long periods of time), focusing on individual and community health; working for cancer solutions. We encourage folks to chose the cancer initiative that they want to support and find sponsorship for their ‘per hour drumming’ efforts at our events.
People say that cancer is their most feared disease, and our funding priorities should reflect that. I know that the old adage, “if you ain’t got your health, you got nothin’” is all too true. It takes dedicated effort and will to make any change. We need great community and financial support to attack something this big. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to discuss how you can participate. Your support can be directed to the cancer initiative of your choice and/or allow us to fund important cancer health education programs. Join us in our quest to eradicate cancer as a sponsor and participant by contributing to DrumsForCures; you don’t have to have rhythm to come join the fun and bang a drum, just a heartbeat…! Most sincerely, Scott drumSTRONG™ DrumsForCures,Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit charity organization #20-8297035 |
