My name is Shirley Bailey.  I live in Houston, Texas with my four-legged fur baby Lola.  I recently retired from banking after 50+ years.

In 1980 when I lost my dad and my 12 year old nephew to cancer I knew little about the American Cancer Society.  It was pretty much the same when I lost my husband to cancer in 1990.  Donations were made in their memory, but I had no idea how the funds were used.

In 2002, a coworker and I were sharing about our losses to cancer.  She told me about this event called Relay For Life.  I attended the event and through Relay, I found my way to fight back against cancer.  I was hooked and quickly became part of the Event Leadership Team.

Not only can I raise funds for the American Cancer Society, but I can have FUN while I am doing it.   I now know how the funds are used.   I have participated in Relay For Life, Bark For Life, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, in Florida, Washington, and across Texas. It is so rewarding to see so many volunteers working and playing together to fight back against cancer.

In October of 2020, I was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer – early detection does save lives!  Because of my knowledge of the programs and research of the ACS, it was not as scary as it could have been. I had surgery, chemo, and radiation and will complete my treatment at the end of 2021.  Not only do I have the love and support of my family and friends, but also the love and support of my Relay family, especially my Area Volunteer Leadership Team.

Cancer continues to take too many, too soon:  my sister, my 27-year-old niece as well as several cousins.   I will continue to volunteer and fight for a cure.  I want us to be able to hold our loved ones in our arms not just in our hearts.