Letter to the editor: Thank you to The Rochester Voice

To The Rochester Voice, Martha Soto Galica and Harrison Thorp,

On behalf of the Maine Brain Aneurysm Awareness Committee, we thank-you and the folks that donated from the Rochester Voice community. This year's event (KAT-Walk and Karo-5k) was a great success with over 350 people participating and 25 survivors attending. With the generous donations made this year, we will be able to continue our outreach to raise Brain Aneurysm Awareness, Education and Research. (More info on our website and Facebook pages.)

At the KAT-Walk & Karo-5K on September 9th, Brain Aneurysm survivors, Heidi M., Maureen M., and Jane M. hosted our Brain Aneurysm Awareness tent where attendees could learn more about brain aneurysms, the symptoms to watch for, and methods of detection & treatments.

ANEURYSM SURVIVORS - stopped by and received a BA Survivor button to proudly wear. Not only is it a wonderful feeling to know you're not alone, but seeing, and getting to know other survivors can give newly diagnosed or treated survivors a tremendous amount of encouragement and comfort. This year we had 25 survivors join us for the walk.

NEWLY DIAGNOSED - were provided with informational booklets and brochures to help new patients. The types of brain aneurysms, different treatments, and what to expect after treatments are all part of the learning process when one begins the brain aneurysm journey. Folks met other survivors who help answer some of the non-medical questions and hopefully ease some fears.

SUPPORT COMMUNITY - We had a tent hosted by Helen H. for the Maine Brain Aneurysm Support Group. For those who are unable to participate in some of the events, Helen welcomed them to rest there and enjoy the festivities with other survivors and family members.

THE WALL OF HONOR
 - Six years ago we started the Wall of Honor where families can place the name of a loved one who has been lost to an aneurysm or the name of a survivor. This has become an emotional place for some and a proud place for others. A true brain aneurysm community develops on the day of the event and it gives one hope, comfort, and encouragement. This year's wall had over 80 pre-made "sneakers" affixed and we want you to know we had one for you, Martha.

Again, Thank-you for the donation.

- Dave McCausland

Maine Brain Aneurysm Awareness

Web: www.MaineBA.org Facebook: KAT-Walk & Karo-5k

Editor's note: Martha Soto Galicia, president of The Rochester Voice, suffered a massive brain aneurysm in February 2015, and in the following years since, has always participated in the Karo 5K fund-raising walk in Portland in September. This year she couldn't as she required additional surgery in August to clip the same aneurysm that had redeveloped. The surgery was successful, and Martha continues her recovery.