Changed for good!

COLUMBUS, OHIO - The 5th Anniversary of Skate for Hope was every bit the magnificent, star-studded event I expected! Skating champs Emily Hughes, Parker Pennington, Rachael Flatt, Keauna McLaughlin & Rockne Brubaker and Tatiana Totmianina & Max Marinin showed me what world class skaters look like on the ice, and it was breathtaking to behold. But, my heart was moved beyond measure when Shannon, a breast cancer survivor, took to the ice with three of her friends. The women skated to the hit from the Broadway musical Wicked “For Good” by Stephen Schwartz and in one beautiful performance showed us how much love friends can show towards each other. (Check out the lyrics and get your tissues ready, this one’s a tearjerker.) These ladies supported Shannon during her breast cancer journey, and through their performance said it all: “Because we know you, we have been changed for good.”

Thank you, Carolyn Bongirno and the entire Skate for Hope team, for allowing me to come with you on YOUR journey. You have all come so far—geographically, emotionally and physically—and it is truly an honor and a privilege for the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer to be one of the recipients of your funds. You have my heart for good, and I look forward to seeing you all next year!

Foundation team - Catherine, Me & Julie



Stars take a bow on the ice


Emily Hughes & her mom Amy, Carolyn & Me


Foundation team with Keauna McLaughlin & Rockne Brubaker



Me and Shannon