For friends and family of Steven Michael Mackin, today is a day of remembrance.  On October 28th, 2006 – Steven passed away from Ewing’s Sarcoma and today marks the second anniversary of his death.

As we move into two years of Steven’s passing, a lot of mourning and sadness has passed – along with the introduction of new positive things that we can reflect on as well.  Stomp Out Cancer has grown by leaps and bounds, and we continue to live through Steven fighting to raise money to help stop Ewing’s Sarcoma.  Steven was afraid that he had not left his mark on the World, but that is far from reality.  Steven Mackin has inspired, created, and provided us with the strength to find Hope for others who are fighting cancer.  Steven is our continued motivation.

Today, Stomp Out Cancer is mailing a check to The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center At John Hopkins (here) for $5,000.00.  This, along with many more payments to come will go to assist Dr. David Loeb and his research staff work to find less toxic treatment methods and early detection tests for Ewing’s Sarcoma – and push further for a cure.

Today is also a special day for us, because our Volume 2 CD is now OFFICIALLY available.  The CD is titled "Hope," in tribute to Ben Lanman, a very brave young man who had Ewing’s Sarcoma and is now (through the care of Dr. David Loeb and his staff) celebrating his eleventh birthday today! 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEN!!!

It is true that good things can come from the worst of times, and while we miss Steven every day – we are thankful for the many blessings that we have received from so many caring people.  Kindness through donations, sponsorships, and volunteer work have pushed us farther than we ever could have imagined.  We have made new friends and loved ones, and we have found the courage to continue forward for our cause – to put an end to this horrible disease.

Thank you to everyone who has helped us with our mission, you are truly the special ones and you will bring "Hope." 

We love you Steven.

Sincerely,
The Stomp Out Cancer Board

The most beautiful article was written about Stomp Out Cancer, the balloon launch, and the CD release today by “The Kentucky Standard,” a wonderful newspaper in Bardstown, Kentucky.  The article captures the project, Steven’s life, and advertised the balloon launch (which we will have photos up of soon) from today.  The CD’s sold, people released dozens of colorful balloons, and I got to send up my set of balloons along with M.D. Cunningham (artist from the CD, and friend of Steven’s) – which really was special to me.  Steven’s family was there and I got to meet so many new wonderful people!  The day, while sad in many respects, was definately a celebration of Steven’s life – and the memories of him.

To view the scans from “The Kentucky Standard” article, please click the image thumbs below:

Special thanks to Brian Walker at “The Kentucky Standard” for taking the time to write such a beautiful and cherished article!