AML is the monster that ripped into our family in 2008 when my sister-in-law and her husband heard the words that most parents are lucky enough to never have to hear, "your child has cancer". Their second child, Austin was only 2 months old at the time of his diagnosis. Since the moment I heard the news, I have tried to be as much a warrior in the fight for a cure as he has proven to be in the fight for his health. Walking with the LLS "Light the Night"; organization as the Team Captain of Austin's Warriors for North Central Florida proved to me that there were a lot of people who were willing to fight, but didn't now that their fight was shared by an army of parents, survivors, siblings, friends and healthcare professionals who are trying to raise awareness where ever they can.

Today Austin is cancer free and is living his life to the fullest with his wonderful mother, father and big brother Hunter. Hunter gave me a boost when he put it so marvelously, "Austin kicked cancers butt!"

Visit our teams website at www.KickingCancersButt.info

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) funds lifesaving research that has contributed to major advances in the treatment of blood cancers and treatments for other types of cancer, such as chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. New targeted therapies that kill cancer cells without harming normal tissue are providing drugs and procedures that are improving quality of life.

In fact, in 2009 alone, LLS researchers were conducting more than 90 clinical trials, a critical step in the development of new treatments and cures that will help patients live better, longer lives.

• A donation of $25 provides patients and their loved ones with FREE booklets that contain up-to-date information on their disease and help them make informed decisions about their treatment options.
• A donation of $50 makes possible a Family Support group with a trained facilitator where comfort can be found and experiences can be shared among patients and family members.
• A donation of $100 helps supply laboratory researchers with supplies and materials critical to carrying out their search for cures.
• A donation of $1,000 makes possible one- on-one conversations with health care specialists who provide patients with information about their disease, treatment options, and helps prepare them with questions for their health care team.

Please make a donation to support my participation in the Light The Night Walk and help save lives. Be sure to check my Web site frequently to see my progress, and thanks for your support!