LIVESTRONG Leader Spotlight: Christina

LIVESTRONG Leaders are individuals that make a yearly significant commitment to those in their community affected by cancer by spreading the message of LIVESTRONG. They do this by fundraising, hosting events, bringing LIVESTRONG resources to their local hospitals and more. One of our amazing leaders from Iowa, Tina Metz-Anderson, talks about why she is involved with LIVESTRONG and what she is doing in her community to help spread the LIVESTRONG message.

What is your name, where are you from?
Christina Metz-Anderson, Bettendorf, Iowa

How are you affected by cancer?
My family was affected by Cancer in 1975 when my mom was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer and again in 2001 when my mom was diagnosed by Colorectal Cancer. In September 2006, I heard the worst news when doctors told me that my 12 year old daughter had a brain tumor. Katie’s tumor was diagnosed as a Diffused Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) and there was no cure.

What does being a leader mean to you?
Being a LIVESTRONG Leader means helping others who hear they have cancer by helping to find resources to help educate and fight back against cancer on their terms. I also like to use being a Leader as a platform to advocate for awareness and much needed funding for cancer programs.

What are you doing in your community to give back?
In my community to give back I have partnered with friends Shelli and Don Collins to co-organize a bike ride called “Tour de Brew QC”. Tour de Brew QC is in its third year. This year’s ride will be held Saturday, May 7. In addition to benefiting the LIVESTRONGFoundation our ride also helps the Camp Kesem Augustana and a third local charity. Our local Charity this year is NormaLeah Ovarian Cancer Foundation. In addition to raising funds our ride’s goal is also about educating our community on the resources available to help those affected by CANCER!