The Story of Mark & Mary
- told by Mark Lawrenson

"Once in awhile, in an ordinary life, love gives us a fairytale . . ."

We met on March 14, 2007and married October 4, 2008. Mary was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in May 2016 and passed away September 24, 2018.

"I wish I could turn back the clock. I'd find you sooner and love you longer . . ."

Life ended far to soon for this beautiful and wonderful woman who was my wife, lover, best friend and soulmate. She was also a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, great aunt and a friend to many. She is dearly missed by all of us.

During the last 2 1/2 years of her life, Mary underwent 3 surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, numerous other cancer fighting treatments and unrelentless pain. She, for the most part, remained a trooper and fought till the bitter end...always believing the disease would be conquered and she would be allowed to live the rest of her life in dignity, peace and happiness.

This story is echoed by that of so many others. It wreaks havoc on the lives of people . . . their families, friends, careers, livelihood and so much more.

For me, my life continues, but my grief will never end. I will adjust and move on in time, because Mary wanted me to do that. But I want her memory to live on, I want her life and her story to be told. I want people to know about the many organizations that work tirelessly in an effort, not only to find a cure, but to care for, nurture and offer comfort for the many who endure this disease.

Hence, the journey I embark on...a trip by bicycle that will serve several purposes for me personally, but also will be a fundraiser for the many organizations involved. They need their story told too, and we need to financially support them to ensure the fight continues.