*Title inspired by the rapper Juvenile*
by Molly Hanten
Mother’s Day 2016 was a perfect day. I was lucky to spend it with two wonderful women, Ross’s mom Anne and my Mom, Ellen. If you’re a member at Alchemy NE and take 9:30am classes, you know my Mom. I may be biased, but she’s the sweetest little lady you’ll find at Alchemy and you can spot her in back working with more determination and focus than anyone else in the room.
You see, my Mom prefers prefers the A20’s, shows up always a bit nervous but comes out glowing. If you come to Alchemy, you know the workouts will and do kick your ass every time. She is 61 years old and moves through these classes at her own pace. She is getting stronger each day and is not intimidated by athletes younger than her. She’s got strength and determination in classes that I’ve never seen from another student. Maybe it’s because her daughter is an owner but i think it comes from somewhere else.
On February 27, 2013 my Mom was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. I had arrived at my parents’ house because I was about to move to DC for my next big adventure in life the following morning. I was expecting a celebration dinner and fun times with my family but this news was waiting for me. For those of you who have been affected by someone being diagnosed close to you, it is a very terrifying experience. I’ve never felt so angry, out of control or sad about anything in my life. The five of us cried, asked questions and sat in silence, the last thing I wanted to do was move the next morning. I woke up with swollen eyes to my Mom dressed and ready to go- she was coming with me and moving me out there. I had committed to this move and she was so excited for me. She had a smile on her face and not a touch of fear in her eyes, just strength.
We went out to DC, moved and unpacked an entire truck and toured the whole city together. We had great meals, laughs, coffees, desserts, walks, wine and conversations. We had no clue what stage her cancer was at this time or what the next steps would be. I had this looming feeling and anger inside but my Mom just wanted to see all the sights and make sure her daughter was ready for her new job and moved in with all she needed. The night before she left, she told me she was scared with some tears in her eyes but also a strength and determination like I’ve never seen in anyone. Right away, she grabbed my hand and changed the subject to the Wizards game we were headed to (thanks Ryan!!) and we had a ball.
The following morning, she was headed back to MN. I hated that goodbye more than I can say. She hugged me and told me I was going to be great and not to be scared, it would all be OK. Man, her attitude was everything- how was she telling ME that?! I should be the one telling her those words. I called her everyday to check-in and kept that goodbye strength with me.
It’s been over three years now and she is cancer free, we were a very lucky family who received incredible news after her surgery and follow-ups that her cancer was successfully removed. I am so thankful everyday for my Mom and her health. Not all families get such news, which is why Alchemy is running the Alchemy Marathon with lululemon Mall of America and the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Association (MOCA) this June 12th.
Our goal is to raise $60,000 and have 150 athletes participate.
Some facts:
- Ovarian Cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related death among women, and is the deadliest of gynecologic cancers.
- Ovarian cancer survival rates are much lower than other cancers that affect women. About 20 to 25 percent of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have a hereditary tendency to develop the disease.
- It can be detected in younger women but has little to no symptoms, so is often caught in later stages.
We want to raise awareness to young women. Please get your tickets here and raise money here!
My #AStrongmama shows up with strength and determination in everything she does. If you’ve taken my class, my Mom is the reason I dedicate the first breath to you and your health before I close class. We are lucky to be alive, moving and breathing through our workouts. Please join us for this incredible workout and event for Ovarian Cancer!
Love you Mom.
Molly Hanten is a Coach and Founder of Alchemy. In her spare time you can find her eating breakfast, bridesmaiding, or walking her dog Summit with Ross the Boss.
