tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12952151603343847242024-03-13T04:13:26.285-04:00On the Road with the Vera Bradley FoundationThe Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer is committed to providing financial support for breast cancer research. For more information about the Foundation, visit
<a href="http://www.verabradley.org">verabradley.org</a>.VeraBradleyFoundationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00731930867276885971noreply@blogger.comBlogger300125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-79026493829271183332012-04-30T15:22:00.000-04:002012-04-30T15:58:58.173-04:00Foundation Blog UpdateWe're making changes to the Foundation On the Road Blog!<br />
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For now, please visit <a href="http://facebook.com/verabradleyfoundation">facebook.com/verabradleyfoundation</a> or <a href="http://verabradley.org/">verabradley.org</a> for updates on the Vera Bradley Foundation.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-48994567483879451142012-04-26T12:35:00.000-04:002012-04-26T12:36:52.530-04:00Amy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: 9pt;">ANGOLA, INDIANA -</span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"> "I'm the first" she told me, "first in just about everything you don’t want to have to go through in life" and then she laughed really hard.She's just a delight, my new friend, Amy, because she is constantly positive. It's obvious from the first moment you meet her; she really exudes that kind of everything-will-be-just-fine attitude. So sweet and refreshing!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 9pt;">Of course, her situation is totally serious. Not a laughing matter at all. She's the first of her friends to get breast cancer, she told me. THAT kind of first. But just in her short journey with this disease, her impact is being made aware to everyone. Many of her dear friends immediately went to get mammograms when she was diagnosed. Two of them received call-backs for suspicious reads of those scans. Just like that, she transitioned from patient to advocate. To life-changer. To hope-giver and inspiration. Just like that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 9pt;">She does tell her friends that they need not worry. "If it’s a one in eight situation" she says, "I'll be your one. Just be sure to only have 8 friends!" And then I hear that laugh again. Delightful. :)</span></div>
</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-58006565463358109582012-04-24T06:00:00.003-04:002012-04-24T06:00:04.453-04:00Jill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RnTwvxR0uOY/T5WIF0Q6cJI/AAAAAAAAAoI/Lrzuo40IthU/s1600/71801.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RnTwvxR0uOY/T5WIF0Q6cJI/AAAAAAAAAoI/Lrzuo40IthU/s1600/71801.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
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</div><div class="p1">LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - Twice a year, <a href="http://insidestitch.com/2012/04/18/a-colorful-day-vegas-edition/" target="_blank">Vera Bradley throws a party</a>. They invite all of their friends to attend, and it is everything you would think it would be. It's more fun than you can imagine, the food is spectacular and you learn all about our product and designs. You also actually get to meet the co-founders. In person. And they are delightful, in case you were wondering. :) </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">I always get to share my own personal story, and that of the incredible Foundation that Barb and Pat started nearly two decades ago (the Foundation part is astonishing to me; you do know that $20 million have been pledged to cancer research, right?).</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Much like every other gathering, I met many new cancer patients and survivors, and reunited with ladies who have been social media buddies for years now. It's always a great time. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2"><span class="s1">This time; however, I received something entirely unexpected. I received a message that said </span>someone had made a small video of me as I was speaking. Her goal was to show it to her dear friend who was struggling on her journey with cancer. I spoke on April 14th, and tried to impress upon everyone how much we need to help one another. Just take care of people who struggle with this disease, I begged. </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">Jill, my online friend, did just that. She supported her friend, thought about her and took back encouraging words of solace. </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">Jill's friend passed away on the 19th. It was, and will always be, a poignant story for me. All of our words matter, dear friends. I will forever be reminded of that fact as I remember Jill. </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">I'm so sorry for your loss, Jill. But I am eternally grateful for that amazing act of kindness. You have allowed my entire Vera Bradley family to be included in the most precious time, and we are all humbled by your gesture. </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">- heidi</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-26375077013002449802012-04-13T14:03:00.000-04:002012-04-13T14:03:39.101-04:00Support<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJdB_n7mpx4/T4hqJ0UUccI/AAAAAAAAAoA/ib0w0DzcBnE/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJdB_n7mpx4/T4hqJ0UUccI/AAAAAAAAAoA/ib0w0DzcBnE/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br />
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</span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1">FORT WAYNE, INDIANA -</span> I always assume I will meet cancer patients with amazing stories wherever I go. I'm never disappointed.)</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Today's story comes from the <a href="http://www.verabradley.com/outletsale" target="_blank">Vera Bradley <span class="s1">O</span>utlet <span class="s1">S</span>ale</a>. Pictured behind these lovely ladies is a <a href="http://www.verabradley.org/posts/285-Tea-Garden-Quilt-Tours-Stores-Raises-Funds" target="_blank">one-of-a-kind</a> quilt created with <a href="http://www.verabradley.com/category/Color/Tea%20Garden/710/pc/639.uts" target="_blank">Vera Bradley's Tea Garden</a> pattern; I was there admiring the workmanship of that stunning quilt when I saw the lady with the hat.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">She had taken it off in an out of the way location, clearly to be discreet. And me being, well ... me, I walked right over and said<span class="s1">: "</span>I totally understand. Nothing worse than how hot you get during chemo. Then to have to wear hats; makes it even worse!<span class="s1">"</span></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">She laughed, took the hat off with a bold flourish an we had a great conversation. Her daughter, pictured to her right, decided that her mama would NOT go through this alone. She has shaved her head in solidarity during her mama's journey.</div><div class="p1"><br />
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</div><div class="p1">Now I'm off to Las Vegas for the <a href="http://www.verabradley.com/assets/verabradleyexperience/index.html]" target="_blank">"A Colorful Day"</a><span class="s1">. </span>Can't wait to tell you who I meet there!</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-68970538344620251332012-04-05T06:00:00.000-04:002012-04-05T06:00:13.900-04:00Care<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tSvyMCAz7Mk/T3x4Dgep2yI/AAAAAAAAAn4/Mt2d0Sm0cls/s1600/Amy%2520Paterson_May%25202008.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tSvyMCAz7Mk/T3x4Dgep2yI/AAAAAAAAAn4/Mt2d0Sm0cls/s1600/Amy%2520Paterson_May%25202008.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2"><span class="s1">PORTLAND, OREGON -</span> Have you ever been to a cancer center waiting room? I'm guessing if you are a regular reader you just might have. When I had my chemo and radiation, I had almost everything I needed; brilliant doctors, compassionate nurses, caring friends and coworkers, and thanks especially to those coworkers, lots of yummy food!!!</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">The only thing missing<span class="s1">;</span> however, was something that is often not a part of these centers; a children<span class="s1">'</span>s play area. While we all hate the idea that some children have to come here while parents are being treated, it is a reality. Much like every other life activity, if you go to get something done, you have to bring your kiddos with you. Even if it's something frightening and somber.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">My friend Amy lives in Portland and was a mom like me during her treatment. Diagnosed in our 30s with children who had to watch mommy go through such a scary time<span class="s1">, </span>Amy had a novel idea.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">She would start a full<span class="s1">-</span>time (no charge!!!) drop-in <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mylittlewaitingroomorg/" target="_blank">child care center</a> at <a href="http://oregon.providence.org/patients/programs/my-little-waiting-room/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">Providence Hospital</a>. Kiddos don't have to wait for hours alone anymore; they can be with other children in a fully supervised and staffed room with caring and nurturing administrators.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">The long<span class="s1">-</span>term help this is giving is I calculable, don't you think? These little ones will now be able to see that this journey isn't one they have to take alone.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">It is one of the most beautiful and compassionate things I've ever heard of, and really has shown me that with a clear focus and kind heart, you can change a scary situation into a good day for a child. 10,000 visitors later, I would have to say I think she has changes lives. Thank you, my dear Amy!</div><div class="p2"><br />
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</div><div class="p1">The beautiful thing about a new cancer drug discovery is that it has just begun. Patients have only just started to use it, so it's healing potential is just in it's infancy.</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">While almost every medication had side effects, cancer meds are the ruling class in side effects. They can rend asunder even the most fit of bodies - that's why when people call us "survivors", they mean it! </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">A <a href="http://www.baltimoresun.com/health/sns-rt-us-roche-breastcancerbre82t07d-20120329,0,6288017.story" target="_blank">news story</a> today caught my eye. The famed <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001048/" target="_blank">Herceptin </a>has been a life saver (yes, literally) to many many people. But now there is another new kid on the block, following in her footsteps. </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">This one, as advancing medicine often is, just has a few more bells and whistles. This one has lessened some of the tricky side effects! Now that may not seem to be a Herculean accomplishment or big news to many of you, but to me and my fellow patients, it's huge. Because it just shows we can all just keep doing the same thing.</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Keep.doing.better. :)</div><div class="p2"><br />
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</div><div class="p2"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: Getty Images</span></div><div class="p3"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">TIPP CITY, INDIANA - Years ago, my sweet friend Kelley came to a <a href="http://www.verabradley.com/" target="_blank">Vera Bradley</a> sales event and saw a video. That video featured my daughter, Alexandra.</span><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-size: 13px;">Alex shared the fact that someone with a serious illness does not go through it alone. In fact, the family of that person lives the experience as well as their friends, neighbors - even our pets! It is a great video, but the kid is the highlight.</span><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-size: 13px;">Kelley thought so as well. When I saw her a few weeks ago, she told me how Alex was the inspiration for her to get involved. She had a <a href="http://verabradleyfoundation.blogspot.com/2009/05/urban-ava.html" target="_blank">daughter</a> not that much younger and it broke her heart to think all that Alex has endured. So she started an event in her town. </span><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-size: 13px;">It had now grown substantially. One of the biggest outside fundraisers, it has taken over the whole town! Stores, restaurants, even entire streets get involved!</span><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><br style="font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-size: 13px;">And this year, as a special treat, Alex herself will be in the fashion show. With little Ava. So the girl who's mama has cancer can be with the girl who's mama is working so hard to make a change through <a href="http://www.wagwforacure.com/" target="_blank">What a Girl Wants: Fashion for a Cure</a>. </span><span style="font-size: 13px;">:) </span></span>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-87391574869592591112012-03-20T14:49:00.000-04:002012-03-20T14:49:39.830-04:00Cheese!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y6Np65vthGM/T2jRHiHsXKI/AAAAAAAAAng/O_rszLShTdM/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y6Np65vthGM/T2jRHiHsXKI/AAAAAAAAAng/O_rszLShTdM/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br />
</span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1">AUBURN, INDIANA -</span> There is something about quilters - they have big hearts and talented fingers. I have a friend who has made a quilt to benefit the <a href="http://www.verabradley.org/" target="_blank"><span class="s1">F</span>oundation</a> for several years now, and her art is such a gift.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">I spoke to this delightful group of quilters recently<span class="s1">,</span> and I'm proud to say that this year I did not touch any of them without a glove on. (<span class="s1">T</span>hat's a big no-no in the textile art world, just so you know ...)</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">When I was done speaking, I asked just one question. Then I took this photo. The question?</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Who wants cancer to be CURED? :)</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-91049718359273356462012-03-08T06:00:00.000-05:002012-03-13T12:12:35.729-04:00Beauty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1">CALIFORNIA - </span>Late Saturday night, I received an amazing note from a friend I've not seen in quite some time. It was simple, elegant and uplifting - an exact replica<span class="s1">tion</span> of my friend. It said<span class="s1">:</span> </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">"I wanted to share this quote with you. It reminds me so much of you and all the other survivors I've met<span class="s1">."</span></div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Here is the quote he liked, and I wanted to just pass it on to you. I've chosen my friend and fellow patient Devon for this blog post. Beauty, indeed. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p3"><i>“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.”</i> - <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1506.Elisabeth_K_bler_Ross"><span class="s3">Elisabeth Kübler-Ross</span></a></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-48980155507011098512012-03-06T06:00:00.002-05:002012-03-06T06:00:02.216-05:00Backup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hrYc9ZeqV2c/T0-38q-PHiI/AAAAAAAAAnI/qCgrGSGE4wU/s1600/IMG00225-20120224-2244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hrYc9ZeqV2c/T0-38q-PHiI/AAAAAAAAAnI/qCgrGSGE4wU/s320/IMG00225-20120224-2244.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="p1">INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - Since I was a little girl, I wanted to be a Pip. As in, the backup singers for Gladys Knight. My mom, God love her, chose only to tell me that the reason I might not be considered was that the fabulous Ms. Gladys only used her relatives for that job. Sadly, we were not related. That did not stop me from learning ALL the words and moves for "Midnight Train to Georgia". (Come on, you know you are saying whoo whooo in your head right now ...)</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Sometimes, we get to realize a tiny bit of our dreams if we are lucky. This past weekend, I went to a pink pajama party to raise money for breast cancer patient services. <a href="http://www.iwin.org/" target="_blank">Indiana Women In Need</a> hosted this fundraiser and as always, it was moving. Touching. Emotional. And indescribably FUN. This annual event is always rocked by an <a href="http://www.livingproofmusic.com/" target="_blank">amazing band</a>. The band always gets the ladies in pink moving on the dance floor – just so much fun. So a tiny bit of my dreams came true.</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Gladys wasn’t there, but I went up on stage with the band and danced with the horn line. I blended in. Totally. ☺</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Just kidding, I was totally goofy but I had fun. That’s kind of the entire mission of IWIN. To be in the background, but letting people have fun. Women who are going through treatment need someone just to be backup. If they need money for gas, for lawn maintenance, for so many things – IWIN is there. There are so many similar organizations all over. I strongly recommend that you do a little research. And then donate. You, too, can be backup. (And keep dancing!)</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-48745805028154763102012-03-01T06:00:00.000-05:002012-03-01T12:56:25.659-05:00Paint<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsRfGhjJ5Z0/T0v_r7oL27I/AAAAAAAAAnA/Ky6gMT6N85s/s1600/Unknown.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsRfGhjJ5Z0/T0v_r7oL27I/AAAAAAAAAnA/Ky6gMT6N85s/s1600/Unknown.png" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
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</div><div class="p1">TRINITY, FLORIDA - I painted a canvas. No, it was not a spectacular success. No, I have not left my job to pursue the artistic realm. No, I did not spill on my clothes, thank you so much for asking. But YES, a big resounding YES for this – I had fun.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">I was with a fellow <a href="http://www.verabradley.com/"><span class="s1">Vera Bradley employee</span></a> and dear friend, Renee. We were at a <a href="http://www.paintingwithatwist.com/about/"><span class="s1">Painting with A Twist studio location</span></a> who was doing a fundraiser for our <a href="http://www.verabradley.org/" target="_blank">foundation</a>. As you know, I dabble in pottery painting, because of my love for our friends at the <a href="http://www.ccsaonline.com/" target="_blank">CCSA </a>and my introduction to them via their fundraiser. I enter as a untalented novice, and leave the same. <span class="s2">:)</span> But when I leave, I have new friends. Sincerely – people that contact me personally, people that inquire after my children, know my dog’s name, understand my endless passion for this mission. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">But canvas painting? I thought there was no/way/possible that this could work. Couldn’t I just use a stamp of some kind? But they have a really cool method for getting you up and running. “Just put the paint on the brush and GO” said our instructor. And drink your wine, that will help, she said. (Note for my doctor, I didn’t have wine. I know the rules of my cancer meds and I won’t break them!)</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Anyway, we painted. We laughed, and we hugged. There were college girls, retirees, middle aged soccer moms. Every color of the rainbow was represented, and I don’t mean in acrylic. I mean in humankind. As a result, all of our paintings were different. Unique examples of who we are. I want to say a big THANK YOU to the PWAT team, <a href="http://www.verabradley.org/posts/278-Painting-with-a-Purpose-for-Breast-Cancer-Research" target="_blank">so many studios across the country participated</a>. It was a great evening, and I highly recommend you give it a whirl. You never know who might end up sitting at the easel next to you!</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-28542985024381070342012-02-28T06:00:00.001-05:002012-02-28T06:00:07.827-05:00Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ATHnjl5FLQ8/T0gYdDAeDvI/AAAAAAAAAm4/zXkrCAebyvo/s1600/522916058.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ATHnjl5FLQ8/T0gYdDAeDvI/AAAAAAAAAm4/zXkrCAebyvo/s320/522916058.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - Words matter. I always listen – very, very carefully to every doctor and researcher I ever hear. There are a few key things I like to hear, but sometimes it’s not what they say out loud that matters. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Recently, a group of us went to the <a href="http://www.cancer.iu.edu/"><span class="s1">IU Simon Cancer Center</span></a> to hear from some docs that are in the world of cutting edge science. Just an update to see where the world is right now with cancer treatment and research, and all of the exciting things they are doing to help. It was amazing! There will be a great posting soon on <a href="http://verabradley.org/">verabradley.org</a>, so please keep checking back to see that.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">As I was leaving the lab tours, I saw the note above on a refrigerator. I took a photo and put it up right away on my personal facebook wall, just because it was so.wonderfully.inspirational. It boosted me, made me smile, made me want to hug them all. Then, when I got home and checked facebook that night, I learned that so many people felt the same. It was shared, reposted, commented upon, etc. All comments were the same basic message; "we LOVE to see this." </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Sometimes is just the little comments that give us the energy to keep going. To keep taking our medicines, to keep raising funds, to keep lending helping hands. We do it daily, and not because of the big, grandiose statements but because of the little true words that exist in the hearts of those we trust the most. Go, go cancer research!</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-72313312406852914302012-02-16T08:37:00.000-05:002012-02-16T08:37:07.139-05:00Courage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cc_GiwQEueM/Tz0GdsfczRI/AAAAAAAAAmw/2KaNZWmvr4A/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cc_GiwQEueM/Tz0GdsfczRI/AAAAAAAAAmw/2KaNZWmvr4A/s320/Unknown.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br />
</span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br />
</span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1">YOSEMITE, CALIFORNIA - </span>My friend and co-worker Brett climbs rocks. Not for a living, but for <span class="s1">"</span>fun<span class="s1">"</span>. He and I must own different copies of the dictionary, because that's not my entry under <span class="s1">"</span>fun<span class="s1">"</span>. He told me once about people who sleep in tents <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/howaboutthat/8541224/Extreme-camping-and-rock-climbing-photographs-by-Gordon-Wiltsie.html?image=5"><span class="s2">hanging from the sides of mountains</span></a>. Again, <span class="s1">"</span>fun<span class="s1">"</span>.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Several years ago, Brett and I were working on a project and I asked him how on earth he can do that. How he can look right at a steep climb and find the courage to scale it. He said, simply; <span class="s1">"</span>I just start climbing. I stop when I get to the top.<span class="s1">"</span> (He's one of those cool yet totally understated kind of guys.)</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">It fits though. To so many situations in our lives, if we knew what we were up against and how tough it would be, we might not ever start. I've spoken with <b><i>hundreds </i></b>of cancer patients and their families about the journey they face. They are all afraid, all intimidated by <span class="s1">the </span>challenge ahead. The same thing applies to any hardship you might face, but it's simple and it's true. And I repeat Brett's words almost every day.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"><span class="s1">"</span>Just start climbing.<span class="s1">"</span></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Hang in there, fellow courage seekers. You can make this climb!</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-89617235333063929542012-02-14T06:00:00.000-05:002012-02-14T06:00:09.412-05:00History<div class="p1"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9yX2MWLJYOk/TzAUvQGjCqI/AAAAAAAAAmY/yhFS1ALes-w/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9yX2MWLJYOk/TzAUvQGjCqI/AAAAAAAAAmY/yhFS1ALes-w/s320/Unknown.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2"><span class="s1">CAIRO, EGYPT -</span> Oh my goodness, I thought I was old. (<span class="s1">H</span>a!). Scientists have found a <a href="http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/health/2012/01/30/prostate-cancer-found-in-2200-year-old-mummy-researchers-say/"><span class="s2">mummy in Egypt that has evidence of cancer</span></a>. He is 2,200 years old!!! This puts it all into perspective, doesn’t it? </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">One of the questions I’m asked quite frequently is <span class="s1">"W</span>here ARE we in cancer research – why don’t we have a cure yet?<span class="s1">"</span> I find this question baffling, but mostly because I’m not a researcher. That’s like asking Ronald McDonald why the fries take so long to cook; he’s just the guy out front with the funny shoes. He can’t possibly answer such a tricky question!</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">My answer comes from one of my brilliant docs, and I use it constantly. (<span class="s1">T</span>ip<span class="s1">:</span> always turn to your genius friends if you need answers. Don’t pretend to know something you don’t come close to understanding.:) He says that this disease has been with us for millennia. Only in the past few decades have we actually found a way to<i> begin </i>the battle.</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">Chemotherapy didn’t even exist until the 1940’s, did you know that? And the two guys who started it actually worked for the Department of Defense – working on chemical warfare! You never know where the answers for treatment will arise, how it will help, or how long it might take. I suspect that the same answer works for <span class="s1">"</span>the cure<span class="s1">"</span>. All I know is that in the history of all human existence, I am grateful for the last 70+ years of advancements in treatment and research. It’s because of those advancements that I am here to write this little bloggie blog. </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p2">Go go cancer research!</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-59315506586898708642012-02-13T13:07:00.000-05:002012-02-13T13:07:31.353-05:00Edie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4q9Y6-rh5Zg/TzlRWfVftEI/AAAAAAAAAmo/mCtqAfOh3nI/s1600/photo+(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4q9Y6-rh5Zg/TzlRWfVftEI/AAAAAAAAAmo/mCtqAfOh3nI/s320/photo+(8).JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">FORT WAYNE, INDIANA - This is my friend, Edie. I met her through work, and she was a blessing to everyone who met her. Cancer has taken her from us, like so many others. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">There wasn’t one thing I could do to stop her from passing. But much like our fellow co-workers, we could lend her comfort and support by just going to tell her we loved her. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Sometimes that’s all you can do. But don’t let that stop you from doing it, please. Go hold a hand.Whisper a prayer, give a hug, talk to the family, tuck in a blanket, look into her eyes. Just go out there and be nice to someone today, someone that really needs it. It will be just as good for your heart as it is theirs. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">We will all miss you, Edie.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-16767906595063454792012-02-09T06:00:00.001-05:002012-02-09T06:00:11.496-05:00Zombies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z10vaQnJh5U/TywYdnosr8I/AAAAAAAAAmQ/YWRWgDcZ6w0/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z10vaQnJh5U/TywYdnosr8I/AAAAAAAAAmQ/YWRWgDcZ6w0/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br />
</span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1">WORLDWIDE -</span> So you know that cancer cells don’t die, right? They have this immortal zombie/vampire thing going on, and it makes me crazy. Luckily, we have about 20 ‘how to defeat immortals’ television shows happening so we know to stock up on water and supplies. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">The big news <span class="s1">at a recent meeting of cancer researchers called <a href="http://chicago2011.asco.org/ASCODailyNews/aacr.aspx" target="_blank">ASCO</a></span> is that there are little tiny caps on the ends on the tops of cancer cells called <span class="s1">"</span>telomeres<span class="s1">"</span>. Those caps are the reason the cells live forever, the researchers tell us. The researchers are now trying to find a way to make the telomeres not fit. Be too short for the cell, therefore it will die a natural death like the rest of our cells.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">I, personally, was pretty happy to hear about this research. As a cancer patient, it’s really unnerving to know that I’ve got cells wearing shoes that look like th<span class="s1">is</span> picture running around my system. Blech. </div><div class="p1">(<span class="s1">C</span>ome on, you didn’t think I was going to put up a photo of a really scary zombie and not shoes, right? This is a family friendly blog!)</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Go go cancer research!</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-5895452406310936252012-02-07T06:00:00.006-05:002012-02-07T06:00:01.947-05:00Rachel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atgESvPgmNg/TzAWO8m75wI/AAAAAAAAAmg/qnB00DF4MSE/s1600/Unknown.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atgESvPgmNg/TzAWO8m75wI/AAAAAAAAAmg/qnB00DF4MSE/s1600/Unknown.png" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">USA - <a href="http://cancerculturenow.blogspot.com/"><span class="s1">She was a cancer blogger</span></a>. NO that doesn’t mean what you think it means. She didn’t wallow in self-pity, she never demanded we wear one color or another to represent anything, and she almost always made me smile. I knew more about what her dog rolled in that day than I did about her scars and pain. She was honest and sage, sassy and bright. Her husband’s name, to the best of my knowledge, is "beloved". That’s what she called him – now, how dear is that? Her oncologist? "Dr. Cuteness". She didn’t have hair, but wore cool hats to camouflage. She only had one hand that worked well, but she did what everyone should try to do:</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">She reached out to everyone with the other. </div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-14481818095358588622012-02-02T06:00:00.003-05:002012-02-03T11:42:32.460-05:00Clare<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_XcTV8hSgI/TymMdTJbTHI/AAAAAAAAAmI/LYmjfderToo/s1600/photo%5B5%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_XcTV8hSgI/TymMdTJbTHI/AAAAAAAAAmI/LYmjfderToo/s320/photo%5B5%5D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
INDIANAPOLIS - In just a few days, there will be a really big football game happening here in Indy. Big people will come and have big parties, and the whole state is welcoming our visitors with big, open arms. What a tremendous opportunity for all of us!<br />
<br />
The best part is that the people organizing the big stuff are also focusing on some small stuff. Small like little bitty cancer cells, to be specific.<br />
<br />
This is my sweet friend, Clare. She's in the midst of her cancer treatment, but is just as strong and pretty as ever. Clare is one of many cancer patients here in Indiana. One of our group that owes so much to our wonderful doctors. Our researchers. Our donors.<br />
<br />
Clare - and the rest of us in this crazy cancer world - are so thankful that the <a href="http://www.colts.com/" target="_blank">Indianapolis Colts</a>, the <a href="http://www.nfl.com/" target="_blank">NFL</a>, the <a href="http://www.giants.com/" target="_blank">NY Giants</a>, the <a href="http://www.patriots.com/" target="_blank">New England Patriots</a> and the entire <a href="http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/46" target="_blank">Super Bowl</a> committee have stopped to remember us in the midst of their work. They have decided that they are not too busy to help others.<br />
<br />
To me, that defines Super.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-18633260717510483952012-01-31T05:30:00.002-05:002012-01-31T05:30:03.211-05:00Princess<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkFTFw5X8sU/TybggUp4WuI/AAAAAAAAAmA/JZMjBJocEdc/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkFTFw5X8sU/TybggUp4WuI/AAAAAAAAAmA/JZMjBJocEdc/s320/Unknown.jpeg" width="274" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">USA. A long, long time ago in a fish far, far away, there one was a pretty little gene that liked to jump around.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">That gene looked liked it was not working, like she wasn't going to be able to offer anyone very much.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">But then, in a far-away land (or, as I like to call it; "Minnesota"), a handsome prince ( I like to call him "a group of cancer researchers") decided to see if they could make the beautiful sleeping princess gene wake up.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">They did, and she did. They ran to the castle (I call it "fish dissection part of the laboratories"). The beautiful jumping princess gene is actually called the "Sleeping Beauty" - and she might be the one to show us the fingerprint of every tumor's cancer gene. The handsome prince (s) were so happy, they immediately told the town crier to spread the news (I like to call that the "<a href="http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/jul2005/nci-13.htm" target="_blank">National Institute of Health and the Journal Nature</a>"). </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">This beautiful princess and her heros will work together to find and defeat the horrible villain (I call him "stupid cancer").</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">They will attack all the paths that the villain has owned until now; block it, squash it, gallantly end that evil.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">The good news to all of this is that I am NOT telling you a fairy tale. The heros are real, the beautiful princess is real, and those of us ready to help get a sword and help are also real. (I like to call us "donors to cancer research"). The <a href="http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2011-11/wtsi-rdg110311.php" target="_blank">Sleeping Beauty Gene is back in the news</a> with scientists making even more discoveries about what drives tumor growth - the more we know about what makes the evil villain tick, the greater the chances we'll be able to outsmart it. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">And we all lived happily ever after. The End. (Cue the sweeping dramatic music and sunset.)</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-43986818699587679432012-01-12T12:24:00.000-05:002012-01-12T12:24:43.452-05:00Football<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr> <td class="td1" valign="top"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lcdZHKc4XPc/Tw8WYmIQW9I/AAAAAAAAAlw/n6k1IwXga5c/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lcdZHKc4XPc/Tw8WYmIQW9I/AAAAAAAAAlw/n6k1IwXga5c/s320/Unknown.jpeg" width="268" /></a></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br />
</span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1">INDIANA — </span>We look like we are ready to play football, don’t we? Just kidding. We are actually helping to load up the van for the most amazing initiative; I’m so excited to be a part of this in a small way. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">My friend Connie (she’s the sassy one right in the middle of the photo) was the impetus behind an innovative new wave of cancer research <span class="s1">at the <a href="http://komentissuebank.iu.edu/support-ktb/indys-super-cure/"><span class="s2">Tissue Bank at the IU Simon Cancer Center</span></a></span>. That research, involving healthy women donating tissue samples, is now about to be celebrated, showcased and launched into the stratosphere by working with <a href="http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/46" target="_blank">Super Bowl <span class="s1">XLVI</span></a>. Both are located in Indianapolis, so it’s just the perfect partnership.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">The women who donate tissue for this particular event might find a very special surprise as a thank you – in addition, of course, to the gift of hope! </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1"><a href="http://www.indianapolissuperbowl.com/indy-super-cure/" target="_blank">Indy's Super Cure</a> hopes to collect 700 tissue donations <span class="s1">during</span> the weekend leading up to Super Bowl XLVI. <span class="s1">The collection</span> will take place January 28 & 29, 2011. To join the interested donor list, please <span class="s1">visit <a href="http://komentissuebank.iu.edu/tissue-donors/register-to-donate/"><span class="s2">komentissuebank.iu.edu</span></a></span>.</div></td> </tr>
</tbody> </table>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-79276054617918739472012-01-04T21:23:00.000-05:002012-01-04T21:23:55.624-05:00Diet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7x8ZclA7Ruo/TwUJsw3RoOI/AAAAAAAAAlo/U19q0I3knMA/s1600/image002.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7x8ZclA7Ruo/TwUJsw3RoOI/AAAAAAAAAlo/U19q0I3knMA/s320/image002.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">WORLDWIDE - Once again, we are reminded by a <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/04/starch-breast-cancer-recurrence-food_n_1180958.html" target="_blank">new study</a> how important diet can be to the cancer patient. Well, to anyone, really! It’s such a tricky subject, I can’t think of one person I know who hasn’t had a weight issue. And who hasn’t heard about eating healthy? Come on!</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">I have an oncologist who is a genius. Best in the business, gem among men, etc. But he openly admits that while he does yoga, etc., he does have a few things that he eats and shouldn’t. He does, and he’s the smartest guy I know (which of course is somehow reassuring).</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">So it’s really just another tip about doing things in moderation to help you be healthier, should you choose to accept it. If not, then please share your most decadent recipes so we can at least enjoy along with you. :)</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-91414961623800328672011-12-21T05:00:00.000-05:002011-12-21T05:00:03.480-05:00Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pUM03hO2Bt8/TvD8j1cnBtI/AAAAAAAAAlc/WE2mp4wD5e4/s1600/image003.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pUM03hO2Bt8/TvD8j1cnBtI/AAAAAAAAAlc/WE2mp4wD5e4/s320/image003.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA – <a href="http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2011-12-19/story/david-garrard-helps-new-team-11-single-moms-fighting-breast-cancer" target="_blank">David Garrard</a>, never heard of him. Until this week, of course, and now I know him as “Santa”. </div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">David’s mama died from breast cancer when he was 16. She was a single mom, struggling to raise her son; imagine the impact that has on a child. He could have gone in so many different directions, couldn’t he? I think the easiest route might have been one filled with struggles and heartache. Instead, this young man has become a beacon of hope.</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">He recently had to take a break from his professional football career due to back surgery. During his medical break, he did something astonishing. </div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">Eleven single mamas with breast cancer (and their children) were his guests for the evening. They were treated to a great dinner out, and then a bit of shopping. All expenses paid, courtesy of David. He spent so much time visiting with the mamas, taking pictures with the kids, hugging and laughing that he completely forgot to eat dinner himself. Can you imagine taking 11 families – families that could really use a helping hand– shopping for Christmas? What joy that must have been.</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">So I don’t know you, David, but I love you. Because you are exactly what we all need to see – someone who scrapes all the silver lining off of the clouds he finds in his life. Then shares that silver with the people around you. Have a Merry Christmas, sir. And thank you for your example.</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><i>Photo courtesy of The Jacksonville Times-Union</i></div><div class="x_MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-38912864591680597632011-12-19T16:35:00.000-05:002011-12-19T16:35:13.747-05:00Goodbye, Eva<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vbt8nKSIs9g/Tu-stfCUrGI/AAAAAAAAAlE/Qyl6wJtfpwM/s1600/imgres.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vbt8nKSIs9g/Tu-stfCUrGI/AAAAAAAAAlE/Qyl6wJtfpwM/s1600/imgres.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 13px;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 13px;">We are very, very sad to learn of the passing of former <a href="http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jqRBa9DjbUsdoNV_njR1Al7Lv1JA?docId=f35891a7f4d342e4a30c47e91311a50a" target="_blank">Miss Venezuela Eva Ekvall</a>. At age 28, this exceeds the phrase "heartbreaking tragedy" in every conceivable way. I’m certain that her 2-year-old daughter would agree, should she even comprehend what has happened.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 13px;">Here's more on this amazing woman from a <a href="http://verabradleyfoundation.blogspot.com/2011/03/pictures.html" target="_blank">previous blog post</a>. </span><br />
<br style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 13px;" />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-46659268268756582342011-12-08T06:00:00.000-05:002011-12-08T06:00:00.284-05:00Bryan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R6_eGia_E-U/Tt_B2y_YteI/AAAAAAAAAk8/Q6TcTU2B3n4/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R6_eGia_E-U/Tt_B2y_YteI/AAAAAAAAAk8/Q6TcTU2B3n4/s320/Unknown.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1"><br />
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</span></div><div class="p1"><span class="s1">INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA</span> - This is <a href="http://www.cancer.iu.edu/research/members/member_bio.php?id=3130" target="_blank">Bryan</a>. He’s just a regular fella, if your definition of "regular fella" includes "genius" in the description. He’s an oncologist and a researcher, a combination I have found to be life saving. Just speaking personally, of course.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">He's a researcher at <a href="http://www.cancer.iu.edu/" target="_blank">IU Simon Cancer Center</a> and also works at the <a href="http://www.verabradley.org/posts/274-IU-Simon-Cancer-Center-Update-November" target="_blank">Vera Bradley Foundation Breast Cancer Research Laboratories</a>. He’s made a pretty important discovery about neuropathy which could help countless cancer patients. (neu*rop*a*thy – noun. Disease or dysfunction of one or more peripheral nerves. ) Older people and African-Americans seem to be most at risk for this development, which is often terrible and debilitating. Genetic biomarkers, for those of you that might not know, are the hot item in cancer research. HOT. Item. <span class="s4">:)</span></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">I read this article with particular interest. I sit on the <a href="http://www.cancer.org/" target="_blank">Grants Review Board of the American Cancer Society’s Tumor Biology and Genomics division</a>, so it fascinates me. I liked what it had to say, the potential for the future, the hope that is sandwiched between every line. I do have a favorite part of the article, however, the one that makes me smile the most.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Dr. Schneider is …"<a href="http://www.cancer.iu.edu/news/article.php?id=4654" target="_blank">the recipient of the 2011 Advanced Clinical Research Award (ACRA) in Breast Cancer</a>." </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">I like that because Bryan is young. For the record, I know several of his patients personally and they refer to him as "adorable." But I digress. Bryan is young, gifted and already finding things that will help us old cancer patients get by. His potential is of a breathtaking scope; and allows us to dream of the biggest things he can accomplish. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">I want my children to know Bryan. To know him as the man that took care of business. That eliminated a big worry from their lives. Go go go, Dr. Schneider. We all love you, are proud of you and are honored to be among the many who help you with our funding. </div><div class="p1"><br />
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</div><div class="p1"><i>Photo: Courtesy of Indiana University Melven and Bren Simon Cancer Center</i></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1295215160334384724.post-73842787025360360402011-12-06T05:00:00.004-05:002011-12-06T05:00:00.801-05:00Giuliana<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5eQkeTtKLWQ/Tt02tjGfXJI/AAAAAAAAAk0/zdl8igzBTzE/s1600/Unknown.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5eQkeTtKLWQ/Tt02tjGfXJI/AAAAAAAAAk0/zdl8igzBTzE/s320/Unknown.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
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</div><div class="p1">HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - I don’t know her. Don’t. I’d love to meet her sometime (after her mastectomy) and just give her a hug and say: "Thanks for putting such a lovely face to this stupid disease. Sorry you had to join the club, honey." But at this juncture, we’ve not met.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">She is, of course, <a href="http://scoop.today.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/05/9221432-giuliana-rancic-to-have-double-mastectomy" target="_blank">Giuliana Rancic</a>, the poised, lovely, glamorous superstar who has breast cancer and is about to go into surgery for said cancer. She and her husband, Bill (don’t know him, either) are on television and I can see why. Look at them for pete’s sake. They are spectacular. Add to their appearance that they are smart, witty and world travelers? Of course they are tv stars .</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">I find something endlessly amusing about this – NOT that she has cancer; but that I always get calls and emails after a celebrity diagnosis. HEIDI – you should call Giuliana Rancic. She was just diagnosed. Her husband has a house where you used to live. So call her.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">We don’t all know each other, we cancer patients. While I think every patient and survivor I meet are spectacular, I can speak for them and say they don’t know movie star cancer patients, either. Nonetheless, however, I would like to say this: we are sorry. Sorry that you have cancer. Sorry you know what it feels like to hear that. So many of us feel for you, want to reach out and hug you, want to make meals for your family, drive you to chemo, hold your hand, read you stories, all those things. We feel like you are part of our family simply because you inhabit our televisions and a bit of our hearts. I’m sorry that we can’t tell you how much we feel the same things you are feeling. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">We are here for you, should you need us. An entire fleet of fans who would do just about anything you ask for help while you go through this. I know this for a fact, because many of the people I meet do this all the time for other patients. It’s a good world out there, Giuliana, and we are just happy you are part of it. You are in our thoughts and prayers. </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Photo Credit: NBC's Today Show</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0