Sallie Beth, Jessica and Christina Todd: Celebrating Survivorship

2015 marks the third year that Sallie Beth Todd and her daughters, Jessica and Christina, will participate in the Massey Challenge. Together, they have raised more than $5,000 for cancer research at VCU Massey Cancer Center – all for reasons that hit close to home for this trio.

Sallie Beth is a 17-year cancer survivor. Diagnosed at age 35 with advanced endometrial cancer, the registered nurse knows what a difference the best care can make. “As a cancer patient it is important to surround yourself with the best possible interdisciplinary team of healthcare providers,” says Sallie Beth. “VCU Massey Cancer Center does exactly that. It is important to support the survivorship program as well. So many healthcare dollars are well spent on research and treatment but it is important not to forget the individual in the treatment plan.” 

Along with being a survivor herself, Sallie Beth also lost her brother to osteosarcoma. Both of her daughters saw the impact cancer had had on their family and wanted to do something to help. Christina began serving on the planning committee for the Massey Challenge and has done so for the past two years. In 2015, Christina looks forward to another year of “putting cancer on the run” and raising awareness for the lifesaving cancer research happening at Massey. These three strong women all participate to proudly honor survivors and to lovingly remember those who have passed.

What is their favorite part of participating in the Massey Challenge? 10k race day. I am amazed at the number of people who turn out to encourage us along the race route and I find this support very empowering,” says Sallie Beth. “I love wearing my Massey Challenge t-shirt and receiving high-fives along the “Massey Mile.”