We in Grand Rapids Michigan have opened our very own fabulous HOPE lodge- the first in Michigan. It is just awesome. I am trying to collect as many!! prayer shawls as possible ( made from soft washable yarn) to give to each of the patients that come to stay with us. I am a survivor and I know that I would have loved a prayer shawl- especially during chemo. If you have any or would be willing to send me any I would SO APPRECIATE them ( and you!!). Contact me if you can help out- and please know that you will be blessed many times over. Pam proach1015@yahoo.com (past co-chair for two years of our Relay ( Forest Hills).

Yesterday I needed help with my Mom and ACS was there for me!!  My mom was diagnosed in October with a form of melanoma and her doctor decided to do radiation only (5 days a week for 25 days, 7 down 18 to go).  My Mom is 77 and does not drive, I usually take her to her treatment when I get home from work, but yesterday I could not leave work.  I called my ACS office in Riverside Illinois where they know me and told them my problem.  Their reply " Judy, not a  problem,we'll get her there and get her home."  I never imagined I'd have to use any ACS services, but am I glad they were there for me and my Mom.  Thank you, Thank you!

This is a question being tossed around Relay leadership group and we are looking for feedback. We are considering the idea of having a 16 hour relay, starting at 10am on a Saturday and ending at 2am on Sunday.

Background: We have about 1,000 people registered for each of our Relays. Traditionally we ended at 8am, but by that time we had fewer than 100 people left, and they were busy cleaning their campsites. By the time our closing ceremonies were over, there were less than 20 participants.

It was a bit of a let down to end with such a small number of people. We are thinking that a 2am ending time would allow more people to stay, and more people to witness and participate in the fight back ceremony.

Any thoughts.