The Boyertown Relay For Life has announced its Honorary Survivors Barbara Frantz and Jennifer Swavely, and their Honorary Caregivers Barbara Frantz and Jennifer Swavely. You read that right – these two women have even more in common, they are mother and daughter.
Jennifer Swavely, a graduate of Boyertown High School, had went to the Emergency Room at age 22 not feeling well, and thought she was suffering from a severe cold. Once her blood tests came back it was determined she had Leukemia. Jennifer had to be transferred to Hershey Medical Center for her treatment where she ended up staying for 3 months after a full week in ICU. Jennifer spent time in the Hope Lodge and family had to rotate schedules with her mom Barbara being her primary care giver during her 3 sessions of chemo for 7 days straight each time. Jennifer eventually went into remission and has been for 19 years. Jennifer is married now and has a son. Yet, Jennifer never forgets she has a 50/50 chance of this reoccurring, it is always in the back of her mind.
Barbara Frantz is also a graduate of Boyertown High School and has lived all her life in the Boyertown area. Barb found a lump in her breast and immediately shared the news with her daughter Jennifer. Jennifer then assumed the roll of caregiver and support to Barb. She was instrumental in calling and getting the appointments scheduled with doctors, surgeon and treatments not allowing Barb to waste any time. Jennifer spent her weekends helping her mom in any way possible along with her father Dave who supported them both. Barb is now 3 years cancer free.
These two women have exchanged rolls and are both proud survivors of cancer. They choose to Relay to overcome the double fear factor that they could both end up fighting the battle again.
Barbara, an employee of Redner’s in Boyertown, decided to establish a Relay Team which is called the Boyertown Redner’s Friends Of Hope. Redner’s supports the team in many of their fundraising efforts and to help fight the battle to end this disease once and for all.
The 10th Annual Boyertown Relay For Life kicks off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 24, at the Boyertown Community Park. The survivor dinner and festivities will take place at 6 p.m. on Saturday. Survivors are encouraged to sign up, and attend the dinner free of charge. Each survivor who registers will receive a survivor shirt and a goodie bag in addition to their dinner. Survivors are also welcome to bring along their caregiver for dinner. Any questions, please call 610-633-1334 for more information.
