"Hold Fast" is a nautical command that has been used by sailors during "line handling", or mooring operations, for generations. It’s typically used when tying up a ship to a dock or pier, and serves to instruct sailors to hold a rope, or "line," with as much strength as possible; A task that cannot be done by any one sailor, but only by a team or crew. The command has been used for so long that it’s not uncommon for some sailors to even have it tattooed on their knuckles as a reminder.

Ropes, or "lines," can be unpredictable when under great load, stress or tension. The possibility of a line breaking is a situation that needs to be taken seriously, as it can result in severe injury, or worse, to sailors during the operation.

The same can be said of someone who loses hope. In life, we all face challenges that we can rarely anticipate. Those who have faced the challenge of brain tumors and brain cancer understand this more than most.

When facing this reality, it's easy to lose your hold on what I would call, the "line of hope." To let it part is something that can easily happen to anyone. Just as in line handling, it can't be done alone. A crew needs more than one hand on that line to hold it tight, to ease the stress and tension on any one person- to hold fast. Thus, to succeed in our fight against brain tumors and brain cancers, those affected need the help of our teammates, friends, and families, to hold that line fast.

Please help me support Connecticut Brain Tumor Alliance by making a contribution to my fundraiser and sharing this page with your family and friends. Every dollar I raise will advance Connecticut Brain Tumor Alliance's great cause! Additionally, you can ask me how you can get involved too.

Calm seas never made a strong sailor, and together, we can make a difference!