I'm nominating my wife Laura to be in the 2012 Kentucky Oaks parade because she's my champion. The physical extent that her chemo treatments have taken her, along with the heavy emotional and mental distress, no one should endure. She's been through a lot since December 2009 and what I've witnessed as her husband in her most darkened days is a strong, brave woman with substance, conviction, and character who has the courage to follow her heart and soul through deep and difficult times. And even though she doesn't feel strong now and then nor think she's brave, the boys and I see just the
opposite EVERY SINGLE DAY. A woman that no matter the depths the cancer has taken her, she finds a will and a way to fight back. She treks on like a trooper, working full-time, staying busy raising four boys, and running a sometimes hectic household...all-the-while with the love and touch of an angel.
I know a lady that deserves one special day too herself to be treated like a queen and be cheered and applauded by thousands on a fantastic day in May. A beautiful woman inside and out that has inspired me like no other and continues
to inspire me more than she'll ever know. I know it would be an honor and a privilege for her to walk the track at Churchill Downs with her head held high as a proud survivor. My lovely wife Laura is my champion.
I want to sincerely thank all those that have voted for Laura to participate in the 2012 Kentucky Oaks Survivor Parade. It means the world to us, to know that we've been blessed with the greatest family, friends, and co-workers on earth. All that Laura's been through over the past two+ years and the hurdles she continues to conquer can be physically and emotionally exhausting. To have 100,000 horse racing enthusiasts applauding, cheering, and high-fiving you as you walk by is as uplifting and heartwarming a celebration imaginable. Although all cancer survivors deserve to be on the track Oaks day, only those voted in get to enjoy the experience. Each vote is extremely important, so I want to make sure our gratitude is known for all those taking time out of your day to think about Laura so she can be included in this marvelous event. Remember, voting continues daily until 5pm Friday, 3/23/2012.
The 2012 Kentucky Oaks Pink Parade is almost upon us. I believe it would do wonders for Laura to be involved again. As in years past, I can tell what a privilege and an honor it is for Laura to be recognized in such a glorious fashion. Being a part of the survivor parade uplifts her spirits like nothing else. The goose bumps and great vibes that surround the entire day is definitely heartwarming. Please spread the word to vote for Laura through word-of-mouth, Facebook, phone calls, etc...every single vote is extremely important. Each day you can go to the website
http://admin.kentuckyderby.com/oaks/survivors/laura-louisville-kentucky-1 and vote for Laura by clicking on the lilies to the left. I'd like to get her as many votes as possible to make sure she gets to experience the thrill and excitement of being a rock star, again. Having a crowd of 100,000+ applaud, cheer, and high-five you as you walk by is priceless. Voting starts Friday, March 16th and ends Friday, March 23rd...so please vote often. It means more than I can put into words.
I'd like to thank everyone for their love, prayers, faith, hope, and overall positive vibes for Laura and the boys these past 27 months. It's been a tough road for all involved. It just goes to show how truly lucky we are to have so many people close to us who genuinely care. Family, friends, and co-workers have pulled through like champions. Each person plays such an important role in Laura's, the boys, & my life that I don't even know where to begin to thank you. Like I’ve said many, many times, we're surrounded with the best folks in the world and THAT is a victory within itself.
Sincerely,
John Bilotta
