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A NYC Half Marathon Story: Ashley

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Rewind to the summer I was introduced to the LIVESTRONG yellow band. I thought it was ingenious to use a bold and powerful color like yellow to represent the fight on all cancers. After seeing pink for breast cancer everywhere it was refreshing to have a color that collectively brought people together to stand up to cancer while using that money for those who need it most.

As an energetic, enthusiastic, and grateful person for the life I had, I knew I had a connection with LIVESTRONG because of all they stand for. I wore my band on and off throughout high school and college but needed it more than ever the fall of 2010 when I had a major operation to remove one ovary and a cancerous tumor. The chance of my tumor being malignant was about 1%. Having an extensive surgery at age 23 is physically challenging as it is but to be told the severity of the situation by a surgeon whose heart breaks to be speaking the words, that’s another story. Once I got out of the initial fog, I knew it was time to step up to the plate, be strong and bold, and do what had to be done about beginning chemotherapy at the world’s best cancer center, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

Ashley and LIVESTRONG CEO Doug Ulman

On January 14, 2011 I got an email from a few LIVESTRONG employees inviting me to the NYC Half Marathon Team LIVESTRONG lunch in March. CEO Doug Ulman sent me an email full of encouragement, support, and urged me to reach out to LIVESTRONG if needed. I got in touch with some fabulous people, one being Tom Whiteside who continues to support me in any way he can. I got to share my story with everyone and through tears I was able to express how much LIVESTRONG’s work and mission means to me. They are constantly rooting and fighting for the fighters and survivors with resources and support. LIVESTRONG provides a safety net for cancer patients who might not have a strong support system and the resources are unbelievable. Anyone fighting this battle needs navigation and I admire LIVESTRONG for helping patients with the tough issues.

I participated in the LIVESTRONG Austin Challenge Weekend in October. I raised over $6,000 and ran in the 5K. I was fortunate to meet Doug Ulman in person who was genuinely pleased to see I was doing so well. He mentioned at the Fundraiser Appreciation Dinner all the great people you meet at the Austin Challenge. I was one of the individuals he mentioned and I feel so incredibly grateful to be a part of this community at LIVESTRONG which feels like family to me. My dream of meeting the man behind LIVESTRONG came true when a few awesome LIVESTRONG employees helped me meet Lance. I will never forget that moment and being able to have some words with one of the toughest cancer survivors who never backs down on the fight against cancer. I support and admire the people behind LIVESTRONG and the mission of the foundation. LIVESTRONG is constantly impacting and improving the lives of millions. It certainly changed mine.

LIVESTRONG,
Ashley Sterns
Team LIVESTRONG Member
New York City Half Marathon

Join Ashley and Team LIVESTRONG at the 2012 New York City Half Marathon. There are many events you can take part in with Team LIVESTRONG. Go to our website to learn more about the run, walk, ride and tri events.

  • Stearns Family

    Wow! Ashley that is powerful stuff. Once again you have brought us to tears – in a joyous and proud way!! Please know how much you are loved and respected by so many, including your dog Fenway!! We look forward to being a part of the Half Marathon and sharing that day with you as we did last year. We will support this cause in every way we can.
    We love you so much,
    Mom, Dad and Geoff

  • Matt J. Ellefson

    What a WONDERFUL story Ashley! Thank you so much for sharing it and doing all the great things you do to help those affected by cancer. Good luck in New York!

    Matt

  • Stearnsie

    So proud of you, Ash!! Love, Mom

  • Dccb3

    awesome!