A few years after graduating from college, I learned that a former teammate of mine, Mike, who was still in school, was diagnosed with the debilitating disease, Hodgkin's lymphoma. For those unfamiliar with Hodgkin’s, it is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. Fortunately for Mike, he was able to make his way back to the classroom and the football field, however, not all Hodgkin’s patients are as lucky.

Many people have been impacted by leukemia & lymphoma in some way—through a family member, loved one, friend, or neighbor. In the US alone, nearly 9,300 new cases of are recorded each year, resulting in nearly 1,200 deaths annually (cancer.org).To help support individuals battling these damaging diseases, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society was formed in 1949 to fund blood cancer research, provide education, and administer patient services.  

In early September, The Light the Night Walk for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society was socialized throughout the Bluewolf Boston office. Word spread quickly, and before long most of the office had signed up to help fundraise by participating in a walk around Boston Common on October 10th. Bluewolf partnered with our friends at, Salesforce.com Foundation, as part of the “Boston Strong” team, and proved how our Pack Gives Back, helping to raise $23,778.

A touching moment from the evening was when the self proclaimed “Princess” Darla, a four year old leukemia patient, kicked off the walk by jumping on stage and belting out God Bless America. Darla moved us all with her resilience in the face of such a damaging disease. Hopefully through more walks and fundraising efforts by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, we will edge closer to a cure and improved treatment—and highlight inspirations like Princess Darla.

To learn how you can help find a cure, please visit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - Ways to Help.