In May 1999, Jill Wolford, a young Cary mother of two was diagnosed with breast cancer. The subsequent nine months were filled with chemotherapy, radiation, hospitalizations, and many experiences that challenged the life her family lived. Throughout that time, friends, neighbors, family, co-workers and even complete strangers helped her and her family through this very difficult period. Overwhelmed by the support they received, she and her husband, Eric, decided that the best way to show appreciation for those who had helped would be to help other individuals challenged with cancer; in other words, pay it forward.
With her treatment completed, the couple threw a party in June 2001, inviting friends and neighbors and asking for small contributions from partygoers. They collected $724 that night, which was given anonymously to a single mother with breast cancer to help pay for medications and other living expenses. In June 2002, the size, scope, and planning for the second Pay It Forward party increased dramatically, and included live music, raffles, door prizes, and private and corporate contributions.The foundation has continued to hold it's annual "Pay It Forward" Fundraising Event and has been the recipient of privately held fundraisers by businesses, sororities, professional fraternities, and individuals. By the end of 2007, CCF has raised more than $400,000 since it began and has distributed these funds to more than 500 local cancer patients in need.
Hopefully, this assistance has eased their burden in some small way.
