Martha Raymond, Founder/CEO of the Raymond Foundation is now a contributing author for CURE magazine. Martha's first published article journals her thirty-year career as a patient advocate and is dedicated to Martha's parents, Margaret & Patrick.

Caring for a loved one with cancer builds a relationship like no other. The patient-caregiver bond is strengthened moment by moment as you work to defeat the enemy together.

Before my Dad became ill, my childhood was carefree, filled with joyous family vacations, friends, beloved pets, school projects, music and dance lessons.

A favorite quote of mine reads: “One voice can make a difference. That voice can be yours.” For years I have searched in vain to credit the author of this meaningful phrase that speaks to my heart and has guided me on my colon cancer advocacy journey of nearly 30 years.

In my dining room I have the antique chairs (circa 1870) that once filled my childhood home. My family home was once a Civil War Stagecoach Inn, a landmark filled with rich history.