The Red Card Cancer Soccer Game was held this past Thursday, September 30, at the Carbondale Area Andrew J. Cerra Complex. The Red Card game was organized by Varsity Girls Soccer coaches Monique Cobb and Krea Price. This program is part of the American Cancer Society and assists in raising money and awareness for cancer research. A dress down day was held, where students, faculty, and staff wore a red shirt or a shirt that was the color of a cancer that has touched their lives in some way. A ceremony was held prior to the game against Forest City, which honored survivors and caregivers on the field. Baked goods and 50/50 raffle tickets were also sold. Forest City also contributed to the cause by selling pin-ups at their school from the American Red Cross. The Chargerettes won the game 1-0, but this was not the only victory celebrated during the evening.
Carbondale Area faculty members have been directly impacted by cancer. Mrs. Colleen Sullivan, Teacher on Assignment, was present at the ceremony in honor of her husband, who was diagnosed with cancer one year ago today. Art Teacher, Ms. Elizabeth Smith, who was not in attendance, is also a cancer survivor. Three faculty members who were recognized at the event are cancer survivors: Elementary Teacher, Mrs. Mary Theresa Villano, High School English teacher, Mrs. Michelle Rosler, and Elementary Principal, Ms. Meg Duffy. Ms. Duffy is marking five years of being cancer-free this month. “I have held many titles in my life. I have been the provider and protector. I have been the fighter, but the woman I honor the most will always be the warrior who survived,” noted Ms. Duffy.
Mrs. Rosler, who recently won her battle with breast cancer, explained the importance of winning her fight and how the community supported her through it all. “When I was diagnosed, I hit the ground running with the attitude of ok, take care of it and fight. Two of my biggest reasons to keep putting my feet on the floor every morning and a smile on my face are my children Max and Jacob. I wasn’t given a choice about having cancer, but I have a choice as to how I deal with it. I appreciate life differently now. I do not stress over the little things or even some big things. I try to live a life full of love and surround myself with family and friends that have always been there for me because it is true, no one fights alone.
“The Red Card Game brings to light the sad reality that everyone has been touched by cancer. The overall goal of Red Card Cancer is to raise money and awareness for cancer research and to let people know that no one fights alone. The Carbondale Area community has always been one to support others, especially in times of need. I am forever thankful for the love, friendship, and support that continues to surround me from my CA family,” noted Rosler.
The Carbondale Area School District thanks our own survivors for providing their perspective. You are truly an inspiration for the entire community.
