Of Lizards and Ladders

Hi, folks. Just wanted to share a story about my Uncle Harold. If you haven't already heard it, you've probably been under a rock somewhere for the past couple of years. If you have heard it, enjoy it again here, because it never seems to get old.

One morning a couple of years ago, my Aunt Ann was in the bathroom getting ready and spotted a small lizard keeping her company. Deciding that the bathroom was only big enough for a standard-sized human, Aunt Ann called Uncle Harold to help her escort the tiny visitor to a more familiar environment. So Uncle Harold grabbed his gloves (lizards are fierce, flesh-eating amphibians) and ran upstairs to the restroom, only to find that the lizard had disappeared. So Aunt Ann and Uncle Harold decided to close the bathroom door, give their little guest some time to himself, and check back later in the day.

Fast forward to later that night... Aunt Ann is once again spending some time in the restroom, reaches for the toilet paper, and sees the lizard hanging out on top of the roll. She makes another call to Uncle Harold, this time not letting the little guy out of her sight. Uncle Harold rushes upstairs, dons his gloves (lizards are vicious, man-nibbling machines) scoops up the little guest, and rushes towards the front door. Doing her part to assist, Aunt Ann runs ahead and holds the door open while Uncle Harold gently releases the amphibian into the "wild". It's at this point that my Aunt and Uncle come to a stunning realization: Uncle Harold is standing on the front steps of his South Charlotte home wearing nothing but his gloves.

I tell you this story for two reasons:

1. While the story may be embarrasing to Uncle Harold, he still tells it (or lets Aunt Ann tell it) because it brings joy to others... and Uncle Harold loves to share a laugh with those around him, even if it is at his own expense. Similarly, Uncle Harold has used his bout with breast cancer as an opportunity to share his story with those around him, educating everyone he meets about the risks of breast cancer among men.


2. You'll be seeing lizards on our team t-shirts, and we wanted you to know the story behind the mascot. As we're running or walking on October 7th, let's remember the story of the lizard and share Uncle Harold's tale with everyone who asks about our amphibious friend. It'll be a great ice-breaker and a wonderful way to educate others about breast cancer in men.

As a parting note, thanks to everyone who has helped Harold's Angels to raise the 4th highest amount so far among teams registered for the Charlotte race. We're climbing the ladder... so spread the word and help keep us near the top!