Janelle McClymont is one of this year's nominations for the 2012 Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Woman of the Year award. (Photo property of Ms. McClymont and LLS Mid-America).
By: Jacob Elyachar
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Man/Woman of the Year fundraising campaign is in full swing. Across the country, men and women from local chapters are gathering support to raise the most money to not only receive the title but to also support kids like Daniel and Taylor, who are the Mid-America Region’s Boy and Girl of the Year. Recently, I corresponded with Woman of the Year candidate Janelle McClymont and we talked about her involvement with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, her campaign and how you can help her receive the title in May.
Jacob Elyachar: How did you get involved with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society?
Janelle McClymont: In March 2007, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a form of blood cancer. I am a nurse so knew a lot about taking care of patients but had never been a patient myself. The minute I was diagnosed, I knew I wanted to help others who were battling cancer by maintaining a positive attitude, getting involved and by turning my diagnosis into an opportunity. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) was the obvious answer, an organization that has raised over $600 million dollars in an effort to cure blood cancers. I have since been involved with Light the Night, a fundraising walk for LLS and now I am a candidate for Woman of the Year.
JE: What was your reaction when you received the news that you were nominated for Woman of the Year?
JM: I was elated, honored and obviously very motivated for the challenge. This has truly been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I am truly amazed at the support I have received from my friends, family, workplace, and the community.
JE: Can you please describe to my readers about your campaign?
JM: The Man & Woman of the Year campaign is a 10-week fundraising competition between the men and women in the Kansas City community. The candidates are judged solely on a philanthropic basis and every dollar raised counts as one vote. The candidate with the most votes will be crowned Man and Woman of the Year. I have set a goal to raise $30,000 in just short 10 weeks. Surely this will help find a cure and help save a few lives. Twenty-five years ago, Hodgkin’s Lymphoma was a death sentence. Now due to organizations like LLS there is a 75-80% cure rate. Pretty good odds…but still a long way to go!!
JE: How have your co-workers, family and friends helped you so far in your campaign?
JM: This campaign has definitely been a collaborative effort! Friends, family and co-workers have stepped up to the challenge and have been monumental in the success of my campaign. I recently celebrated five years in remission…a significant milestone for a cancer survivor. It is amazing to me that five years later, I am still being showered with support from so many people. I have literally received donations from people all over the country. One of my biggest fundraising events was in Omaha…even Huskers are helping me in this journey!
JE: How can people help you with your campaign?
JM: I have an event “Concert for a Cure” on April 28th at Park Place Courtyard in collaboration with Ingredient restaurant in Leawood, KS. Come join me for some live music and food and drink specials in support of a good cause! You can also learn more about my campaign on my fundraising website http://mid.mwoy.llsevent.org/jmcclymont Honestly, I just want to thank those that have already contributed. This campaign has become contagious…the more you get involved the more rewarding it becomes. I truly have been blessed by this opportunity!
To learn more about the Kansas City Man and Woman of the Year race, visit their Website: http://mwoy.org/kc and their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/mwoy.kc
