THE New year has started out as a happy one for cancer survivor Lori Mello, who was presented with a $400 cheque by a local charity.Diagnosed with Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Lori has been undergoing chemotherapy at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts. Lori was diagnosed with the dease in May 2006 and has been undergoing chemotherapy since. There are two general types of lymphomas: "Hodgkin's Disease" (named after Dr. Thomas Hodgkin, who first recognized it in 1832) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The lymphatic tissue in Hodgkin's disease contains specific cells — Reed-Sternberg cells — that are not found in any other cancerous lymphomas or cancers. These cells distinguish Hodgkin's disease (HD) from non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHLs).

In December 2002, a new Bermuda cancer charity, 'CARF' (Cancer Assistance Research Foundation) was registered as charity. CARF is founded on the ever-alarming rate of a variety of cancers that are claiming lives of several on our Island. An abundant amount of resources, promotion and funding are allocated towards breast and prostate cancers, however, there is an undisputed amount of other cancers that effect fellow Bermudians each year and under the age of 60! The cancers are colon, stomach, lymphoid, and brain tumors amongst others.

CARF will be providing assistance in three ways — financially, educationally and spiritually by instilling various methods of the 'I Can Beat Cancer' approach.

On hand to accept the donation on Lori's behalf was Jennifer Morris, who considers Lori not only a best freind but a member of her family. "Lori has been friends with my younger sister since she was 11 and has been a fixture in our family," she said.

"My whole family is close with Lori's family and you don't have to be blood to be related."

The continued outpouring of support has been shot of overwhelming for the Mello and Morris families. "We live in a generous and compassionate community and we are very unique. I am so happy to be Bermudian and we have been receiving phone calls from well wishers as well as donations."

Those wishing to send a Lori a get well wish or words of encouragement can e-mail her at sharond@northrock.bm

"Lori may not answer everyone immeidately since there are days when the chemo leaves her feeling unwell, but she does read all of them when she is up to it! We thank everyone who has called and lent their support,' said Jennifer.

On the local front, those interested to learn more about CARF can log on to their website at www.carfinfo.com or call 293-1563.