Carrying Kim With Me: Why This Year Maine’s Cans for a Cure Means So Much

Last year, during Cans for a Cure, I had one of those moments that stays with you long after the microphone is turned off. 

Her name was Kim Charland. 

Kim was a stage 4 breast cancer survivor, and when our Bill Dodge Can Van pulled up to her home, she was sitting outside with her beautiful family and best friend, bundled up against the cold, waiting for us. 

They had saved their bottles and cans so they could donate them to Cans for a Cure. 

I remember stepping out of that van and looking at Kim. She was surrounded by people who loved her, and despite everything she had been through, there was this incredible warmth and light about her. 

Lizzy Snyder

I didn't know then that meeting her would become one of my favorite memories from Cans for a Cure. 

A Year Later, I’m Carrying Kim With Me for Cans for a Cure in Maine

Kim has since passed away. 

And this year, when we pull into the Maine Mall parking lot for our 24th Annual Cans for a Cure, I’ll be thinking about her. 

I’ll be doing this one for Kim, in my heart. 

Donate Here. 

Because this event is about so much more than collecting cans and bottles. It’s about the people behind every donation. The families affected by cancer. The survivors. The people we’ve lost. And the hope that comes from knowing we’re all doing something together. 

Join us, Lizzy & Chris at the Maine Mall parking lot October 14–16 as we collect bottles and cans to benefit the Maine Cancer Foundation.

And remember, Clynk also makes it easy to turn your returnables into support for this important cause. 

Every can matters. 

Every bottle matters. 

And sometimes, the people you meet along the way matter most of all.