Do you know those moments that seem to feel like you’re living a dream come true? By Lyla Kiel
When faced with cancer, (and in the case of sarcoma, a rare cancer) it can feel isolating and lonely. Insert the power that social media holds…
A couple from California, a woman from Texas, and a woman who moved from California to Texas all woven together by sarcoma are able to come together to meet for the first time! Four people who would have never crossed paths otherwise. This weekend, I will be meeting Joel and Amanda for the first time ever, and Marisa for the second time after finding each other through Move For Jenn social media channels. We will be meeting to Move Because We Can at the Magnolia Silo District Marathon Weekend in Waco, Texas and we cannot wait! Why this race you may ask? "The Silo District Marathon was born out of a friendship between Chip Gaines and Gabe Grunewald, a professional runner and rare cancer fighter. Gabe passed away in 2019, but her legacy of running on hope lives on." If you are unfamiliar with Gabe's story, learn more here.
At MFJ we always try to show the light moments (as well as acknowledge the darkness that comes with being a part of the sarcoma community). This weekend shines so brightly.
Personally, this weekend not only connects me to three amazing humans who I adore, but it also connects me to my angel mama. I feel her hands all over this. When she was doing anything cancer-related, including waiting and resting (which we did a lot of), we watched a LOT of Fixer Upper. For those who may not be familiar with Fixer Upper, Fixer Upper is a home renovation show starring Chip and Joanna Gaines, who live and work in Waco, Texas. That’s right, Waco, Texas!
As soon as I moved to Austin, my mom and I would talk about visiting Waco together to visit the Magnolia Silos (owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines), see properties Chip and Joanna renovated, and stop at all their favorite spots. Well, my sweet mom passed away on March 23rd, 2018 before we could visit Waco together. However, on April 23rd, 2022 I am going to Waco, for an event raising money for rare cancer research, in Waco, Texas, hosted by Chip and Joanna Gaines. I could cry ~in my feels~ tears just thinking about it. I am a big believer in symbology, especially as I work to find meaning in my mother’s passing, and to me, this says that my mom will be there with us. It might not look the way we originally planned it, but I know she will be with me all day.
So, come along with us on this race day/weekend by tuning into our IG Stories! Along with the Move For Jenn IG page, be sure to also follow Joel, Amanda, Marisa, and me for race and weekend updates! Also, like the rockstars they are, Joel and Amanda are running in the marathon on Sunday, so let's cheer them on!
Our sarcoma community is so special. I speak for the entire MFJ team when I say that we cannot wait to meet all of you one day! In the meantime, never forget that we’re here for you.
P.S. Here is my "symbology" takeaway: IF you believe in symbols/messages from your angel, pay attention to them, they are everywhere. I know it isn’t the same as them being physically here, nor does it always cut it, but for me, it provides a sense of comfort. And yes… you guessed it, I 100% speak to my mom out loud when these moments occur.
I would love to hear your moments/connections/symbols with your angel(s), please comment below if you are willing to share!
Added May 9: Check out the weekend recap here!