Many of you have been with and supported me during my blood cancer diagnosis of B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. When I received the prognosis, everything in my life stopped: school, tennis training, travel, and socialization.
Fighting cancer became my only job.

The week after I was admitted to the hospital on March 9, 2022, I asked the nurses if I could have a stationary bike in my room so I could exercise. An unusual request since most patients are unable to walk, let alone bike on their own, the nurse, surprised, obliged. Just as the doctors were doing their jobs to cure my cancerous cells, I would do my job in mitigating muscle atrophy by keeping myself active. According to Erin McLaughlin, an oncology nurse navigator at OSF HealthCare, “physical activity is encouraged and aids in the recovery process.” To this end, I decided I would bike each day whether that be two minutes or thirty. Most days I could only do five or fewer, but as the treatments eased I was able to do more and more.

Now, as I near the last year of treatment, I want to give back to the other patients struggling, just as I did, by raising awareness. This July, in partnership with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, I ask each of you to exercise for a total of three miles each day. This can be done in any form of exercise you prefer, whether that is running, walking, biking, paddle-boarding, rowing, climbing, and anything else. Just get moving!

If you need (which I think you do 😁) some clothes to do your exercise in, I designed products that when purchased, all profits go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in pursuit of the cure for cancer.

There is also a Facebook fundraiser link and a Social Sync linked in the socials tab that allow direct donations. Once again, all proceeds go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Thanks to all those who participate! Good luck and happy exercising,

Cedar Connell

LET’S GO AFTER IT!