My name is Lexi Panepinto. I hail from Buffalo, NY where I spent most of my upbringing going from soccer field to soccer field to occasional basketball court or track. Sports, soccer in particular, was a huge part of my (and my twin sister's) life - it's where we learned grit, perseverance and teamwork. Our team motto, echoing the famous Liverpool FC, was "You'll Never Walk Alone." It meant never having to walk through the storm alone, always holding your head high and never being afraid of the dark. It's been a sentiment that has stuck with me throughout the years, but most recently this past year in which more family and friends have been impacted by cancer. I've seen the toll it takes on loved ones. The darkness, the pain, the weight it brings. The resiliency, the strength, the fearlessness it takes to fight. Cancer is a battle that no one should ever fight alone. And that is why I choose to fight...for my family, friends, anyone impacted by cancer. I will always be there, always be in your corner. I promise "You'll Never Fight Alone." 

 

I am fighting in honor of those who don't get to choose their battle and in memory of my Aunt Jeanne.