Norman Frady and Ginger Freeze Named Heroes of Hope

Two years ago, Norman Frady was thrust into the role of caregiver the moment he and his wife, Candy, heard the words, “You have breast cancer.” During the next few months, Candy underwent surgery and treatment.

“Norman dressed my incisions and gave me my meds. He assisted me with my showers, getting dressed, and cooked and cleaned for me,” says Candy. “I don’t think he got much sleep because he was continually checking on me. However, we got through all that, and life went on. My husband is my definition of love. Everyone should be so lucky to have a caregiver like him”

“This cancer experience has made me a better man. I’m not afraid to show affection or emotions, and we do not take any day for granted anymore,” says Norman. “During my wife’s battle, I also lost my 19-year old son in an auto accident. Throughout this journey, I have gained a new lease on life.”

Both became involved in the Relay For Life of Austin County when flyers were posted at Norman’s worksite. “I will do anything to raise money for the American Cancer Society and to fight cancer,” says Norman. That includes dressing up as a woman and winning the title of Miss Relay. They have also served as a team captain raising more than $30,000 over the past two years and as luminaria chair. “Relay For Life has given me a bit of a purpose, and I feel good in my heart knowing I am helping somebody,” says Norman.

Now in remission, Candy is a volunteer with the American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery® program helping newly diagnosed breast cancer patients cope with their diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

“In my upbringing, I was always taught to take care of those you love,” says Norman.

It was 12 years ago at the age of 48, that Ginger Freeze learned she had breast cancer. A lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation followed, and she was grateful for the care provided by her husband and the prayers and support of family and friends.

She was also grateful for the Reach to Recovery® volunteer who came to visit after her surgery. “Cancer taught me to accept help when it is offered. It also taught me to be more sensitive of the pain of others.” It was her Reach to Recovery volunteer who invited her to help in the survivor’s tent and reception at the Relay For Life of Brazos County.

“The first time I walked the survivor’s lap I was moved to tears. Every survivor’s lap since then I’ve had the same experience.” Ginger relays in honor of her mother and her aunt — both breast cancer survivors, and in memory of her grandmother and a former student. “Research of the American Cancer Society has benefited many, and Relay For Life is my way of giving back.

Ginger is a Reach to Recovery® volunteer and has served as a regional trainer for the past two years. She’s also a team captain for the Branch Bears. “It consists of teachers from Mary Branch Elementary, and our team was the number one fundraiser last year. It was the most funds ever raised by a team! We get the students involved with such activities as hat days, and in the community with a McTeacher Night in which we, the staff, work at McDonald’s and accept tips. Through Relay For Life, I’ve met such amazing people committed to doing all they can to wipe out cancer.”

Pink Power in Southeast Texas

More than 2,000 volunteers came together to help make strides to end breast cancer on October 29 by participating in the American Cancer Society’s inaugural Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® event, a 5K, noncompetitive walk held in downtown Beaumont on historic Crockett Street. The event united the Southeast Texas community to honor breast cancer survivors, educate people about steps they can take to reduce their risk or find breast cancer early, and raise funds to support programs and services for those facing the disease.

“Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is more than just the name of an event. It represents the progress we are making together to end this disease,” says Kathy Chessher, community manager of distinguished events for the American Cancer Society. “We raised more than $110,000 through this event that will support the American Cancer Society’s efforts to save lives by finding cures through breast cancer research; and by providing local services and programs to cancer patients.” Some of the services offered in the golden triangle include: wigs, turbans, bras, prosthesis, transportation assistance, I Can Cope®, Reach to Recovery® (breast cancer support/mentoring),  Look Good…Feel Better®, and lodging for out-of-town cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Photo courtesy of Scott Eslinger.

Relay For Life Leadership Summit “iRelay”

A sea of purple descended upon the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas for the American Cancer Society High Plains Division Relay For Life Leadership Summit, September 29 – October 1. The annual Summit was an opportunity for attendees to receive beneficial Relay For Life educational information and updated resource tools needed to implement a successful Relay For Life event in their community. There was plenty of networking and Relay fun for the 800 participants, who attended from Hawaii, Guam, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas.

 With the theme, iRelay, conference goers participated in various general sessions, breakout sessions and The Experience, which emphasized how to plan and implement a successful Relay For Life. An awards dinner recognized top fundraising teams and individuals from 2010-2011 with seven from our East Texas region!

 Austin County received the Per Cap award raising $5.82 per capita in the communities with a population of 25,000 – 29,000. Cherokee County received the Per Cap award raising $5.38 per capita in population of counties of 40,000 – 49,000.

 The Top Ten community events recognized included Relay For Life of South Mid Jefferson County, (ranked number eight) and Cherokee County (ninth).
 In the Top 25 events (in addition to South Mid Jefferson and Cherokee counties) included:  Polk county (ranked number 14), and Angelina County at number 19.

 The top community team, number one in our Division went to the team of Rockin’ Tacos, with the Cherokee county event.

 Congratulations to all our winners. And thanks to all our volunteers and donors for all your fundraising efforts to support the programs of the East Texas region of the American Cancer Society!

Angelina County: Time to Kick it Up

Posted: Sunday, September 25, 2011 1:15 am

LETTER: Time to ‘Kick it up’ The Lufkin News The Lufkin Daily News

“I have lived in the East Texas area all my life and I never cease to be amazed by the generosity of our community.

On Saturday, Oct. 15, The American Cancer Society will host the second annual Pineywoods Cattle Baron’s Gala. As chairman of this year’s gala, I’ve had more than 75 volunteers devote countless hours for 11 months in preparation for the success of this event. I have also been overwhelmed by the support of local foundations, businesses and individuals who have donated money, gifts and talents.

The gala promises to be an evening dedicated to raising funds benefiting the American Cancer Society, which is a nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization committed to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.”

I would like to extend a special thanks to all the generous supporters and volunteers and I encourage more people to get involved.  Join us at the Todd Farm on Oct. 15 and help us “Kick it up for a cure”!

Brigettee Henderson, 2011 Pineywoods Cattle Baron’s Gala Chair

Tickets now on sale! Visit pineywoodscattlebaronsgala.org or call 936-634-2940.