If you read the pages of Engine Builder magazine or scroll through the enginebuildermag.com website, you’ve probably recognized the name Dave Monyhan. Dave is a longtime friend of the magazine and a regular contributor via his Machine Maintenance columns. Dave is also a longtime industry pro who works for Goodson Tools and Supplies, and known by many of you in this industry.
It was just shy of two years ago that Dave’s family lost their daughter-in-law, Krista, to Ovarian cancer. We first learned of this story and of Dave’s commitment to helping bring awareness to Ovarian cancer during the 2016 PRI Show when he shared a story about growing his hair to donate nearly 12 inches of it.
Krista was diagnosed with ovarian cancer on March 14, 2014. She endured an exhausting chemo regimen over the next 15 months, during which she never lost her smile or positive outlook. However, Krista lost her battle with cancer on July 6, 2015. Her strength and spirit endures and the memories she made during her life will continue to bring joy to all those who knew her.
In honor of Krista Monyhan’s memory and spirit, and for all of those going through tough times due to cancer, Dave, his son Chris, and their dog Isla are embarking on a nearly 500-mile kayaking trip to raise money for MOCA, the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance.
Ovarian cancer is very tough to diagnose early and there are no reliable tests or indicators. Ovarian cancer is typically diagnosed in post-menopausal women, but affects women of all ages. MOCA is one of the leading organizations in the country working towards a reliable early detection test and a cure for ovarian cancer.
Dave and Chris are asking for donations, which will be made in Krista’s name to MOCA. Their goal is to raise $10 per mile. Beginning on June 28th, the three adventurers will be kayaking from Lake Itasca, the headwaters of the Mississippi River, to Boom Island in Minneapolis. They expect the trip to take 15 days. All donations raised will go directly to MOCA to help fight this awful disease.
On behalf of the Monyhan’s and Engine Builder, we thank you for your help and support. Donations can be made by clicking here.
To find more info or to reach Chris Monyhan directly, please visit https://cmonyhan6.wixsite.com/website or contact Chris at [email protected].