Straying a bit from the usual wedding-related posts, the next couple of posts are going to be a bit different, discussing Rays of Hope and the “Save a Goddess” event that recently took place at the Log Cabin. On this post, I’d like to talk about Rays of Hope, and what the organization is all about.

From the Rays of Hope Facebook page…

“Rays of Hope – A Walk Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer was founded in 1994 by Springfield, MA native Lucy Giuggio-Carvalho after she was diagnosed in 1993 with breast cancer and struggled with her initial diagnosis, treatment options and access to services.
 Lucy was only 38 years old when she discovered a lump in her breast. While she was receiving chemotherapy treatment, her nephew, Michael Mazzafero, was participating in a breast cancer run/walk in California. He decided he would run in honor of his aunt and solicited pledges from family and friends asking for their help in fighting breast cancer.
 Giuggio-Carvalho was so moved by his act of love, she decided to take action herself to support all women and men in western Massachusetts facing a breast cancer diagnosis…”

“Since it was founded in 1994, Rays of Hope – A Walk Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer has been committed to improving the breast health of people in our communities with quality and compassion. Through the Baystate Health Foundation, the Walk has grown from 500 participants to over 17,600 and has raised close to $8.3 million - all of which has been awarded locally throughout western Massachusetts. 2009 marked the first year the Walk expanded into Franklin County.

At the 2010 Springfield location, the first Run Toward the Cure 8K will be introduced.” (via the Rays of Hope website)

In addition to the annual walk, on September 16th, the Log Cabin held the second annual “Save A Goddess” wine dinner to benefit the Rays of Hope foundation. The event featured a five course meal prepared by executive chef/owner Mick Corduff, and was completely sold out!

See the event flyer here, and stay tuned for an overview of the event!