December 6, 2021

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Dear Friend,    

Last February I found myself alone in a hospital in Boston, facing the most terrifying experience of my life. At 36 years old and the mother of an 8 year old son, I suddenly became partially paralyzed and was diagnosed with a rare form of terminal cancer. 

Undergoing intensive cancer treatment and healing from spinal surgery, I experienced all the emotions associated with a drastic life change. I needed support and community. Then a dear friend told me about Walking our Talk. She said, “Show up as you are, and you will find what you need.” 
 

Donations from other WOT sisters made circle possible for me, as I needed a scholarship to participate. That circle, that experience, those women were vital for my survival. They kept me tethered to life as I faced my new reality of physical care and uncertainty about my future. 

 

This fall I wholeheartedly joined another circle, in person this time. Even with masks, the connection to my sisters was more powerful than I could have imagined. Once again, I formed relationships and was cared for in ways that exceeded my expectations. WOT sisters even eagerly volunteered to drive me to circle, loading and unloading my wheelchair multiple times! They accepted me when I was struggling to accept myself, and I was reminded that beyond my disability and my terminal diagnosis I am still a strong, independent, valued woman. 

 

The power of my circle experience drives me to give back. I will be joining the WOT Board of Directors in January. As a result of my prognosis, I don’t know how long I will be able to perform those duties. I do know that I want to spend part of the life I have left using my strengths to support an invaluable organization.

 

As you consider your year-end giving to Walking Our Talk, please remember the visceral and direct connection between your donation and WOT’s ability to transform lives. It has changed mine immeasurably. As I face some of life’s biggest challenges, I am doing so with the help of my WOT community. 

 

Thank you for all you do to support our community and Walking Our Talk.

 

With love,

Meg Czaja