And while the event requires months of hard work and dedication for just one night, the thought of finding a cure so other families won’t have to experience cancer has served as motivation not only for McLarry-Creech, but also for all the members of the RSG. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s wonderful. My children knew that at Red Sword Ball time they had to share their mom,” says McLarry-Creech. And they didn’t mind. As a matter of fact, her daughter fondly remembers heading down to convention center every year to help put on some of finishing touches for the event. “It was and still is a part of our lives,” says McGowan. Moving Forward While Stepping Back While her heart, soul and hard work remain at the foundation of the Red Sword Guild and the Raleigh Roundup, these days McLarryCreech is slowing it down and enjoying life. This past June, McLarry-Creech celebrated her one-year wedding anniversary with husband Tommy Creech, who understands her connection to the RSG and is extremely supportive. She’s taking the role as the “step back parent” for not only her own children, who are now grown, but with the Guild she launched back in 1996, passing the torch to the next generation, and she is quick to credit all the women she has had the privilege of working with over the years. And while McLarry-Creech is proud of her accomplishments, she may not realize the true impact she has had, with her positive energy and attitude inspiring women struggling to overcome adversity. “In 2005 I lost my mother to a fatal heart attack. I suddenly found myself chairing a large fundraiser with a spunky, spirited woman who showed me just what it meant to pick yourself up and turn the bad into good,” says Allison Sheehan, past president of the RSG. “I don’t know anyone who can’t use a little bit of Louise in their life.”
Twenty two years later, Louise McLarry Creech’s family Christmas photo from 1988 still hangs on her refrigerator.
The Raleigh Roundup: Give Cancer the Boot When the Red Sword Guild presents the fifth annual Raleigh Roundup on Friday, November 12th, nearly everyone will attribute its success to Louise McLarry-Creech, who shaped its vision over 20 years ago. Don’t miss this western gala, complete with food from top area chefs, live entertainment, casino style gaming, mechanical bull riding and live and silent auctions, with all proceeds being donated to the American Cancer Society in its fight against cancer. The event will be held at the Kerr Scott Building on the NC State Fairgrounds. Tickets are $150 per person, including all food and beverages. Visit raleighroundup.com for more information. And, for 24 hours a day support, visit the ACS website at www.cancer.org.
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