As we approach a new Rotary year filled with new district and club leaders it is a natural time to reflect on the year behind us with gratitude and the year ahead with hope for the future. And so it is with me. My journey in Rotary to date has been nothing short of adventurous, fulfilling and deeply meaningful. From my time as a club member to club president then District Governor in 2022-2023 to the last two years leading district membership and public image efforts, it has been a time of meaningful service, deep personal growth, and connection. When I retired January 1 of this year, I was filled with hope for the next adventure exploring how to live life anew and “give back” in other unexplored ways.
Life threw me a curve ball on April 18th when after a routine mammogram I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma of my right breast. It was of sufficient size to require immediate chemotherapy with surgery planned for late September and more chemo after that. I know some of you can relate to how such a diagnosis flips your world. There are so many different decisions to make along with the emotional and physical aspects of the journey ahead, not just for yourself, but for family and friends. Having been in a district position for a while now I consider the members of every club in this district to be my family. You welcomed me with open arms on visits and during countless events and meetings. This is the reason I feel called to reveal my diagnosis not just to my own club but to all District clubs through this newsletter. I also want in some way for my journey to help others either cope with their own cancer diagnosis or those of a loved one. Although this journey can be daunting, maintaining the right mental attitude is the key to success, which also means growing a village of supporters. Some of those supporters appear totally unexpected from the shadows which is quite overwhelming! It keeps my spirit alive and grateful. In my own club of 65 members we now have FIVE of us impacted by breast cancer. The statistic is that breast cancer affects one in eight people. Knowing this statistic I suspect there are women and men (they are affected too) in your clubs currently battling the disease or deemed as “survivors”. If you are among them and would welcome a chat with me, I am happy to have you as a member of “my village” and in turn be part of yours. Reach out at juliet@qrpc.com.
I also want to alert you about a change in leadership of the District Membership Committee for the 2025-2026 Rotary Year. Aaron Jacobs, who will be our District Governor Nominee on July 1 will be the new Chair of the District Membership Committee.
Aaron is the past president of the York Rotary Club and not only has a passion for growing membership but a skill for doing that in his own club. If you are interested in being part of the District Membership Committee please contact him at ajacobs@scorecardsales.com.
In closing, thank you for being a role model to me of service and kindness. Being part of Rotary is an incredible gift to me and I look forward to giving back in new ways as I navigate the road ahead.
With gratitude, PDG Juliet