Shortly after her death, Anthony and his three children—Alisa, Anthony Jr. and Adam, along with fellow family and friends—formed a fundraising team, “Sherry’s Promise.”
Diagnosed with lung cancer in December of 2018, his wife “fought the fight head-on with such a positive attitude for 20 months,” said Anthony.
On Sept. 12, the new Sherry's Promise team is poised to pedal in the 12th annual Big Move Cancer Ride, to raise funds for patient care equipment at the Walker Family Cancer Centre.
“Sherry and I received the worst news of our life in that hospital, and more of it regularly as time went on,” Anthony told the Thorold News.
“Things did not go well for Sherry, but I remain loyal to the dedication I saw from the staff towards Sherry and myself. Sherry and I were always so impressed at how sincere and warm everyone was. They made us feel as good as one could under the circumstances. The staff here made an unbearable situation bearable. I most definitely don't wish my experience on anyone, but if that experience happens to find its way into your world – it’s nice to know we have a world class set-up right here in Niagara.”
Last year, while Sherry was still battling cancer, Anthony embarked on his first lengthy cycling trek and entered the Big Move Cancer Ride with a modest goal of raising $1,000. Family, friends, and strangers rallied to support him, and he ended up presenting more than $35,000 to the hospital that meant so much to him, and to Sherry.
“I was so surprised at the outpouring of people’s generosity last year,” he said.
This year, strengthened by the support of Sherry’s Promise team members, he set a much higher goal, of $35,000.
“They have all done a great job and if I'm correct, they have all met their individual goals already,” he stated, “with a few weeks to go.”
“I really think we can do something great here in the future. I would love to grow the team and really make Sherry's Promise a big and regular supporter for the Niagara Health/Walker Cancer Clinic. They are extremely appreciative of the funds raised and are truly there to support you through the process.”
These days, Anthony and his three children find themselves in the midst of “a very tough time of transition,” he added, feeling deeply the loss of his wife of 30 years.
“Sherry was undoubtedly the stability and the core strength of our family. We miss her like crazy every minute of the day, and The Big Move Ride keeps us focused on something positive. It keeps us mentioning Sherry's name and talking about her. This truly is a world class Centre and I am proud to do whatever I can to support them. If possible, I hope you find it within yourself to do the same, and please share with your social network.”
From Sept. 1 to 13, cyclists can ride at their own pace, choose their own route, or select from one of several the Centre will provide, to raise funds, with all proceeds staying in Niagara to support patients of the Walker Family Cancer Centre.
While COVID-19 has cancelled much-needed fundraising events, cancer continues to affect thousands of Niagara residents each year.
To be a part of Sherry's Promise, make your pledge online at The Big Move Cancer Ride.
