Recently, I had the honor of driving a close friend to her last cancer treatment in another city an hour away. We were so thankful, and our spirits were high as we rejoiced that she had gotten to this point and was feeling super. My friend breezed through the preliminary check ups, and then we settled into the large open room where many other people were already receiving the two-hour chemo drips into the ports in their bodies. 

Glancing around, I was reminded that cancer is no respecter of age or station in life.  That's when I noticed that my friend was not the only Marshall person there for treatment. There was my neighbor from two blocks up the street, and further down, in the corner, was another friend who said he was making several trips monthly now.

Upon leaving, we met a couple in the waiting area from a nearby community. This experience made me wonder about all of the dear friends and neighbors in Marshall and surrounding communities for whom this is an all too familiar experience. I prayed they would soon be able to receive compassionate care close to home.

That is why I gladly became a volunteer and support the Cancer Center Capital Campaign. The Community Cancer Center is going to be “a very good thing,” and I know this great community will come together in support of a healthier future for all of our friends, neighbors and loved ones.  

Thank you in advance for every gift. They are so appreciated.

Leonda L. Raines 

Marshall, MO