Donna Sortino Proietti has been married to me for nearly 42 years. Take pity on her.
I fell in love with her when I was 16 and she was 15. It took a while for her to reciprocate. Eventually, she capitulated. We not only married, we even produced two wonderful children who have given us three precious granddaughters.
Besides being an unwavering companion, a marvelous mother, and a gifted elementary school teacher for years in the Rochester City School District, Donna is a two-time breast cancer survivor. First in 1991 when she underwent a lumpectomy, radiation and chemotherapy. Again, last September, BC2 invaded our lives. This time, the surgery was a much larger cut. Fortunately, no chemo or radiation this time and she is well. In fact, she is radiant.
During both of her battles with cancer, Gilda’s Club and the American Cancer Society have been there for her, for us. Behind all of this, has been The United Way of Rochester. Offering guidance, comfort and support, The United Way has helped organizations like Gilda’s Club flourish. The late Gilda Radner once said, “I joined an elite club that I’d rather not belong to.” Donna feels the same way. But when you become a member, you have little choice.
Donna and I have always been givers to the United Way. It’s a no-brainer. For nearly all of our adult lives (that’s a long time), we have also been beneficiaries and volunteers. When that envelope arrives to make a contribution to The United Way, we know we are making an investment, not just a gift.
You do have a choice when it comes to living and giving. Open your hearts to our community and its vast array of support groups and resources. The call is no longer simply to give. It is to live. To Live United.
(Tom Proietti is Professor of Communication at MCC and a “poster child” for The United Way’s Live United Campaign. Check out Tom and some of his “pups” at https://www.uwrochester.org/ )
Annette Agness
MCC Association, Inc.
03/16/2009 |