Light The Night Takes First Step

The tragedy of cancer affects millions around the world, but it strikes hardest when it hits close to home.
Just ask Liz Zazo, who lost her 22-year-old daughter, Jodi, to T-Cell Lymphoma back in 1991.
Or ask Andrea Halkias, who was diagnosed with a very rare type of T-Cell Lymphoma and was told her cancer would take her life in two weeks, yet was able to speak about it nine years later.
How do people like these women stay so emotionally strong and fight back against cancer? The “Light the Night Walk” kickoff party Thursday, July 21 was a preview.
The “Light the Night Walk” is The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) nationwide evening walk to help raise awareness about various types of blood cancers and to raise funds for cures. Held at the Courtyard by Marriott at LaGuardia, guests indulged in fundraising tips, drinks and food and listened to a variety of speakers. Donna Canzano, a senior campaign manager for the LLS, thanked the audience for being there, shared some statistics about blood cancers and introduced speakers.
Halkias took the stage first to tell her very emotional story. Halkias was once diagnosed with a very rare form of T-Cell Lymphoma. She was told at one point she had two weeks to live, but the fight for her life was just beginning. Halkias told the doctor at that time, “Please just spare my life.” She went through massive amounts of radiation therapy, which ended up taking her eyesight. At the age of 39, she would have to learn how to walk again, “like a two-year old.” Unfortunately the doctor told her the radiation could only do so much and the cancer would come back and take her life. Halkias closed her story by saying it has been “nine years, and I’m still here talking to you,” which elicited a standing ovation from the crowd.
Zazo, who is now the team captain of “Jodi’s Family and Friends” followed Halkias. Zazo walks for her daughter Jodi. Zazo became involved two years ago by a co-worker and raised $337. Zazo said, it was an “Emotional and gratifying experience, that inspired me to do a walk. My efforts were relentless.” Zazo raised $12,559 last year and was one of the event’s most successful fundraiser.
It doesn’t stop with women like these two. Islam Sharif, financial center manager of Citibank and a walker, said the Long Island City location alone would raise “$10,000.” He also challenged Mario Hernandez of the western Queens Citibank on who would raise more money. Hernandez said if they raise more money, Sharif and his east end managers must “serve breakfast at the October meeting” for all of the Queens west branches.
The enthusiasm, positive attitudes an heart warm feeling was only the kickoff. These volunteers, sponsors, walkers and supporters will be working hard on raising money year-round.
The Queens walk will take place in Bayside at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 24 and begins at Little Bay Park next to Fort Totten.
The 2-3 mile walk has survivors carrying illuminated white balloons and supporters carry red ones. Anyone can walk or donate and more information can be found at www.lightthenight.org or (212) 448-9206, Ext. 231.
The Queens walk raised $65,000 in 2002, $95,000 in 2003, $150,000 last year, and their goal for 2005, is $200,000.
Chris Arnone is a freelance writer.