Birthdays are special celebrations, especially in my family. I am Babette De Lay, a high school Special Education Instructor and I live in Los Angeles. While I enjoy my job immensely, I also find great satisfaction in helping others. A member of several community service and scholarship organizations, I am especially devoted to helping youth see their dreams come to fruition. When not spending time with my family, I enjoy visiting museums, reading biographies, exploring history. On April 24, 2008, something crucial was added to my ‘to do’ list: beat cancer. With a full life of community service and a close-knit family, I considered this obstacle something else that I would need to balance on my schedule.
Following surgery, I began chemotherapy. After my second round, there was a detour in my journey as dehydration, anemia, and being diagnosed with MRSA led to being hospitalized for four days. My knowledge about the American Cancer Society was limited before being diagnosed. Through suggestions by friends, medical staff, and pamphlets, I made contact and learned even more about the wealth of services offered.
As I went into remission, I was invited to share my experience at a Relay for Life meeting. In a few months I became the Sponsorship Chair, then the Team Captain Lead and eventually Event Lead. Working with the ACS team has become a family for me. My involvement has helped me, and it has given me an additional sense of accomplishment. ACS is the vehicle that has helped me help others. There is a certain comfort in knowing there is an organization that understands your plight, provides what many consider to be the smallest of things, and overall works to see that patients have a tomorrow. I now celebrate my 2nd birthday, April 24th, annually with cake and champagne.