Woodinville resident Steven Hawley is gearing up to participate in the Seattle Brain Cancer Walk on Sept. 22.
He knows a thing or two about the disease.
In June 2011, 62-year-old Hawley had a bike accident and suffered a serious concussion.
He now considers it one of the luckiest days of his life, according to a post on Seattle Dog Spot.
Hawley thought his airheaded behavior was due to a fall from his bike. At the time, he was an avid cyclist and he knew that accidents happen.
But a week later, while driving to work at his insurance company in Woodinville where he had worked for over a decade, he suddenly lost his way even though he was only about two blocks from the office, the blog post said.
A visit to his family doctor brought news much worse than Hawley expected. He had a tumor growing on his brain just above his right ear. Surgery removed it all and a grueling bout with radiation and chemotherapy followed.
Hawley became healthy again but a lot had changed. He was forced to retire early, unable to perform his duties. His vision was affected so driving and cycling were no longer possible. Also, agility competitions with his border terrier Joey were out. Now, he and Joey walk four miles every day, determined to stay in shape.
He will head to Seattle on Sept. 22 to help raise money and awareness to fight brain cancer. It’s important to him to support that cause in any way he can.
Hawley told the blog his advice for people who find themselves in similar situations:
- Form a game plan
- Get back on your feet
- Live as normally as possible
- Remain positive
- Don't let your disease define you
To make a contribution to Steven's Seattle Brain Cancer Walk effort go to the Walk's website, click on the donate button, then click on the donate to a team or participant button, then put HAWLEY in the seach box to get to his fundraising page.
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