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A few weeks ago, our youngest daughter, Lexi, was a co-director of Wake ‘N Shake, Wake Forest University’s dance marathon fundraiser. This event supports the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund. Brian played football at Wake Forest, then the Chicago Bears, before dying of cancer at 26 years old. The movie, Brian’s Song, chronicled his life. It’s been over 50 years since Brain has passed, but the university continues to honor his legacy by supporting cancer research.
For the past year, Lexi has worked with two co-directors and many dedicated students to host the first live, 12-hour dance-a-thon for the school in three years (due to Covid). To add to the excitement of the day, the local indoor mask rule was lifted that day so dancers could see full faces and expressions of joy while they danced for 12 straight hours (no sitting allowed).
These students were all in. All in to support loved ones who have experienced or are currently experiencing cancer. Lexi was working and dancing in honor of three grandparents and an uncle who had died of cancer. The evening concluded as they revealed they exceeded their goal of raising $300,000. The emotion and excitement were palatable for hitting the goal but much more for the positive difference they are making for future generations in preventing the pain and loss that cancer causes.
Lexi FaceTimed us after the event with a face filled with joy, relief, exhaustion, and tears. That mix of emotions can only be experienced when you are all in – giving everything you have mentally, emotionally, and physically.
So, when was the last time you were ALL IN? What cause or purpose might help you tap into your desire to be ALL IN?
We are inspired by these students and grateful for the blessing they give future generations.