Northborough Resident Competes in this year's Against the Tide Event

The June 22^nd Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition’s Against the Tide event at DCR’s Hopkinton State Park in Hopkinton, MA is rapidly approaching and Robert (Bob) FitzPatrick will make sure he is in attendance. Unlike last year when he sadly missed the date, the Northborough resident and retired teacher will participate in this year’s fundraiser competing in the one mile competitive swim and the two mile recreational kayak. Bob was especially inclined to support MBCC and their goal for breast cancer prevention this year since his cousin was recently diagnosed with the disease. This is not the first time however, that breast cancer has touched Bob’s life. Bob initially became aware of the illness when his grandmother, Elizabeth Staley, passed away in her early 60’s. Bob is proud to be participating in this year’s Against the Tide in honor of his cousin and in honor and in memory of his grandmother.

After Bob expressed his eagerness to speak with MBCC Executive Director, Cheryl Osimo, while on his way to a weekend trip in Martha’s Vineyard, it is clear that Bob is a model for all of us in that he is a proactive and caring individual. Bob became a loving grandfather seventeen months ago when his granddaughter, Kinley, was born and strives to teach her about the essential need for community involvement.  Bob explains, “One of the most appealing aspects about this event was the breast cancer prevention aspect and knowing that this goal will allow my granddaughter and future generations to grow up without this terrible disease.”

Cheryl Osimo states, “I am thrilled that this former school teacher, father, grandfather, son, and husband is taking the time out of his busy life to support breast cancer prevention on June 22^nd to help us towards our goal. I am not surprised that this former school teacher is serving as a model to other adults in doing all he can to change the legacy of breast cancer for his granddaughter and future generations. I am personally touched by his commitment to support our goal. It is clear that he understands this is not a job for our children and grandchildren to have to deal with, but instead our responsibility to do all we can now so that we can hopefully change the grim statistics of 1 out of 8 women getting breast cancer. ”

Currently, MBCC is the only breast cancer organization locally or nationally that focuses on breast cancer prevention. The statewide Against the Tide events generate funds towards this goal and MBCC’s work in community education, research advocacy, and public policy change. The morning events consist of a 1-mile swim, 2-mile kayak, 3-mile walk, 5K run, and 10K run. Participants may choose one or more of the activities in any combination. There will also be a “Splash and Dash” Aquathlon option where participants first "splash" in the competitive 1-mile swim and then, "dash" in the competitive 5K or 10K run. Each year, this family-friendly event brings individuals from all demographics and all abilities together with one goal in mind: breast cancer prevention.

If you are interested in participating in a unique fundraising event for a great cause, registration is easy! Visit http://www.firstgiving.com/mbcc/against-the-tide-hopkinton-2013 to register and follow instructions under “Registration is Easy.” If you are unable to attend, please consider making a pledge to Bob through http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/Bob-fitzpatrick-1/against-the-tide-hopkinton-2013