Dear Susan,
I am writing to thank you, the DFAC Committee, the dancers, choreographers, singers, speakers, and all who participated in this year's "Dancing For A Cure" event. It is not often that one is given such a gift, such an experience that has an impact that leaves such a powerful message for all to keep with them and share with others.
On the way to Saturday night's performance I was nervous, not sure of what triggers the show might set off for me emotionally, but knowing I wanted to be there to support my friend, the cause, and to thank all involved for their efforts as they worked on something that is so key in my life.
From your opening welcome to the moving finale, I realized that I was witnessing something so powerful, so uplifting, and so hope-filled, I could not help but be caught up in the emotion and message of it all. I was transformed from a spectator to an active participant, drawn in and touched by the beauty of each passing moment.
I found myself feeling as though each and every dancer, singer, and speaker was performing for me, sending their message to me personally, telling me "We understand, we get what you're going through, and we've got your back. You are not alone. We're with you in the fight."
I was totally changed from a mere passive audience member to someone who was dancing, singing, and speaking with the cast, emotionally on stage with everyone, feeling totally connected to a new circle of friends who were carrying my fears, my hopes, and my heart.
Even more poignant for me was the fact that the same empathy and support was carrying my sister's struggles and hopes, being lifted up right beside me, though she could not be there in person. It was as though the blue and pink symbols were my sister and me, intertwining our battles with ovarian and breast cancer, showing a united strength and resolve against both foes.
As I take Saturday night with me, I feel empowered, cared for, and loved. I feel heartened by the commitment made by all of you, and by the sense of urgency you all recognize. I thank you for your work, your dedication, and your passion, and will forever be touched, supported, and empowered by the overwhelming care and friendship you extended to me, and to all patients, survivors, families and friends who are sharing the cancer journey.
With Deepest Appreciation,
MJ Keenan
I had to let you know how beautiful the show was. I was glad I was able to go with my son again. I had not made any of the holiday shows this year and when it snowed I was disappointed that your show would be cancelled. I called Kara and she said it was still on! We would not have missed it!! I would have put on snow shoes if I had to to get there or had my son pull me on his sled. But it has been something we both enjoyed last year for the first time and were so looking forward to it this year.
Thank you and all the girls that work so hard with putting on such an emotional and beautiful show for such a great cause!
-Kathy C.
Susan,
We have gone every year to the DFAC recital and each year have shed tears and smiled lots to the performances and speakers. You along with the others have done such a fabulous job at putting this on and I can not thank you enough. As I write this I unfortunately shed some more tears because I just got results back yesterday from my mother being diagnosed with cancer. She is a very strong woman and with the help of all of us family members we will ALL get through her chemo treatments together and fight this. My daughter told me last night, "Mom, I danced for a cure for Nana last night."
DT
(Delia is an 8 year old dancer at Dance Designs. She was a 'Rudolph' tapper in this year's show.)
CONTACT US: dancingforacure@comcast.net |