My name is Kimberly Dillard.  I live in Livingston, Texas with my husband Raymond.  We have two grown children and four amazing grandkids.  Our grandkids absolutely fill our hearts with joy.  We spend as much time with them as possible.

I began Relaying in 1999 when my cousins started a team after losing both of their parents to cancer.  When I took the track for that first lap, I had no idea the huge role Relay would have in my life in the years to come.  After years of participating in Relay For Life, all of my Dad’s siblings, with the exception of one, were diagnosed with cancer and have passed away.

My first experience as a caregiver would come when my grandmother was diagnosed with breast, kidney, and bladder cancer at 86.  I arranged my work schedule so I could take her to 26 daily radiation treatments following her lumpectomy.  I was amazed by her strength.

My mom was diagnosed with colon cancer at the age of 53 following an unrelated medical procedure.  Her cancer was diagnosed very early.  She had surgery and had no need for chemotherapy or radiation.  At age 72 she remains Cancer Free!

In 2011, my dad was diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer which had already metastasized to his bone and other areas.  We were blessed that he found an oncologist who was heavily involved in research.  The aggressive treatment plan allowed us another six years with my dad.  My dad was always so proud and supportive of my volunteer work with the American Cancer Society, especially Relay For Life.  The year he passed, it was very difficult for me to take that track; however, because of his belief in me, I was able to speak at the Fight Back Ceremony.   I found the words provided a message of HOPE and endurance.

By serving as an Event Lead for the last six years, I have always strived to ignite a flame in those around me to join us in our mission to end this dreadful disease.