Besides fierce winds and scorching heat, this summer Shalvoy also sustained a sprained ankle, pulled muscles, and a knocked-out tooth. I row about 12 hours a day, and the last few are always very challenging. No matter how tough it gets, I know that when it's over, I can take several days off to recover, and then I'll be fine. Cancer patients don't have that reassurance. Anyone who's seen a child lose a mother to breast cancer has to be touched, he says.
Breast cancer is among the most treatable cancers if detected early.
The college and sponsors such as Genovese Drugs and KeySpan Energy are very active in promoting the row. The money comes in bits and pieces from individuals, he says. People row, paddle, swim, surf, or motorboat alongside him to ask questions, show appreciation for his efforts, and even hand him donations. His family, including a son and three daughters, couldn't be more supportive. Though touched by the offer, he doesn't think that will become necessary.