Why is Dan Cole running for the Man of the Year for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society?

Over the years, I’ve come to realize that while I cannot shirk my responsibilities (and like all of us, I often fall short), it’s also important to find ways where it’s possible to escape my own “story” and some how, some way, to make a difference in the lives of others.

A few years ago, I found that way. It started with fundraising by joining the Whitman Walker Clinic and their fight against AIDS through my participation in the Marines Corps Marathon. Through the generosity of hundreds of people, we broke all records and raised more than $22,000 – an unprecedented accomplishment and record which still stands.

Last year, I became involved in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training Program which involved fundraising in the fight against blood cancers while training for the Marine Corps Marathon. Again, because of the generosity of hundreds of kind people, we raised more than $20,000 and were the top fundraisers for the region, finishing second in the entire country. Needless to say, I found the answer to getting outside of my own “story” in order to help others in need.

Fundraising for important causes quickly became a passion. Last fall, I met a very special little girl named Hannah McNeal who is now in remission from leukemia. Like everyone she touches, Hannah captured my heart and serves as a special symbol to me of just how important the fight against leukemia and ALL cancers is. When I was nominated to be a candidate for Man of the Year, I seized on the opportunity.

Here was a way I once again could work to raise funds for a very important cause. I assembled a group of more than 20 very special people who committed themselves to do everything possible to help raise funds to help fight the diseases of leukemia and lymphoma as well as all cancers. We named our team TWO DEGREES OF DIFFERENCE because I am convinced that all of us are within 2 degrees of separation of a someone who has been affected with either Leukemia, Lymphoma or any cancer.

Sadly, through the course of my life, I have lost dear friends to the ravaging affects of cancer. I’ve been blessed to know Hannah McNeal, who, along with another special little boy, I have now met, Hunter Ruderman, has been named the National Capitol Chapter’s Girl and Boy of the Year respectfully.

It comes down to this: I believe we all have the opportunity, indeed the responsibility, to helpthose in need, people who we might not ever meet or come to know. The diseases of leukemia and lymphoma – all cancers for that matter – give us the uniqueand special opportunity to reach outside ourselves, often just within 2 degrees, to make a difference.