Media Reviews

Fund-Raising Events Support Community, Cancer Research Journal Tribune 3-14-2002 In a tightly knit clan like the Kerrys of Saco, the death of a beloved family member at a young age is the equivalent of a train wreck or an earthquake. It's devastating, and everybody feels it. Fortunately for us all, families like the Kerrys also have the drive and resources to turn a terrible loss into positive action that can help others. The 1997 death of Mary Kerry Libby at age 44 from a rare form of cancer inspired Mary's Walk and the Kerrymen Pub Road Race, which enter their fourth year this Sunday in Saco. Both events are fund-raisers for the Maine Cancer Foundation.

Mary's Girls  Photo taken at Mary's Walk 2002

York County residents should consider taking part for the same reason that they've donated blood and given money in response to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Helping others is one of the few ways to feel better in the aftermath of a loss.

Unfortunately, most of us have lost someone to cancer, or watched someone survive a frightening diagnosis and daunting treatment. Cancer cuts across age and racial and religious backgrounds and it can strike people who, like Mary Libby, mind their health. She was an avid walker whose regular route down Main Street to the family business the Kerrymen Pub has become the path of the 2 1/2-mile Mary's Walk. (The road race is 4 miles.)

While we can't stop cancer from snatching some victims like Libby, we can guard our own health through good habits and support of a clean environment. And we can support fund-raisers like the walk and road race, which have raised close to $120,000 in four years. All the money that's collected through the events will support cancer research here in Maine.

Health is foremost on the minds of many Saco residents as the city debates its future relationship with the Maine Energy incinerator, which many suspect taints the air over the city. One of the decent arguments in favor of a proposed new contract with the Biddeford plant's owner is that it would require substantial funding for a study of area health problems, and could finally answer some of the nagging questions about cancer and other illnesses.

Mary's Walk and the road race are another good way to show a commitment to health and healing. They also support a family that's given much to the community and will continue to do so for years to come.

Both events begin with registration at 10 a.m. at Thornton Academy. It's not necessary to be an athlete, or to raise a lot of money. All that's needed is a heart big enough to embrace the memory of Mary Kerry Libby and others who left too soon.