Dusting off the blog for a shameless ask.....

A blog post to do nothing but ask for $$$.  But, I wouldn't ask if I didn't believe. 

I am walking in May in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. This 39 mile walk supports many institutions to fund various research initiatives including programs at Mass General, Dana Farber, Beth Israel and Harvard Medical School.  One of the research trials I personally find most interesting is a grant they have given to Tuft's University to study the link between environmental chemicals and breast cells.  They also donate money to community outreach to help those who can't afford treatment and to programs to help survivors. 

Why am I walking and what drives me to swallow my pride and ask for help???  In two letters -- MO!!!  I need to find a way to honor my friend Maurine, who impacted me beyond what I could ever describe.  I also want to do something to remember a beautiful little 9 year old girl named Emma, a 29 year old friend, Bridget, and my mom and Mike's mom and many others that I have witnessed be diagnosed with any type of cancer in the past few years.

But let me try to tell you about Mo, in case you didn't know her.  It was 4 years ago that I met Maurine.  I was just completing my breast cancer treatments at the time and Mo, well, she was dealing with a breast cancer recurrence and losing her hair for the second - but not the last time. It was fate that I met the woman who would change me forever.  The world has since lost, but will NEVER FORGET Maurine.  We walked together in the Komen 3Day to support breast cancer research.  It was magical and we walked again the next year and the year after that.  Many of you supported me then and I am so very thankful for that. There is a video done by New Balance documenting our walk first walk together that I will forever be grateful for. Please watch and get to know my friend Mo.  You won't easily forget her.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qi4HVW35t6Y

Now that you know a bit more about Mo - I can attest to the fact that she was awesome.  First - she was a light.  Her light shined wherever she went.  She was always happy and positive no matter what her circumstance and her circumstance really was never very good from the day I met her.  She always had a way with words and she was one of the funniest woman I have ever met.  No, I'll give the the title of the funniest.  She should have been a comedian.  She was a gift to me and so many - especially my children. They both say she became mom #2 to them and I have watched their pain at her passing.  We talk about her often.   You never really thought of Mo as sick, even though, deep down you knew she was very, very sick.  Her smil0e, one-liners and attitude carried her so far and she touched so many people. There literally is not a day that goes by that I don't think of her in some way. I watched her fight and smile and touch others until the very end.  Her giving is what touched me the most.  She gave 200% of herself to so many causes and so many people.  If we could all be half of what Mo taught the world to be....

I also choose to walk for personal and selfish reasons --  to ensure the future of my two daughters, who now have a line of breast cancer in their family and for my own future.  Because of my work with the Tough Warrior Princesses, I witness on a regular basis, the pain and struggles of those diagnosed with breast and other types of cancer.  It is heart-wrenching when you are surrounded by it on a regular basis.  There is so much need that comes with a diagnosis, all of which could be fulfilled with a cure.

I need to raise $1800 in the next 8 weeks and I find it appropriate that I am saying yes to this journey - even though I am a planner and need to do things MONTHS in advance.  Mo taught me to do things on a dime and not worry about the outcome.   She taught me people first.  When there was a need, she never said "no" or "I can't".  She simply organized the next fundraiser and somehow got the impossible done.  Period.   I know, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that Mo wants us to do this to help contribute to the research that may one day find the cure. 

Therefore, I ask for your help.  If you would like to donate, please go to:  My Avon Walk Page.


On another note:  There is still time to sign up for the Triathlon for the YWCA and Tough Warrior Princesses.  It is being held next weekend on March 23rd at the YWCA in Newburyport.  This is a triathlon for every BODY.  No worries if you aren't an athlete --- heck - I can't even swim.  I plan to dog paddle across the pool.  If you want to sign up or want more information go to our registration page.  It is a good way to practice for other events or just come out and be active for the day.  Teams are welcome too! 

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your consideration. 


Blessings,
Patty

Create a Personal Challenge for yourself

As winter approaches I always seem to struggle.  All of my commitment to diet and exercise has started to wane, as it seems to every year at this time.  I think I'm using this blog to pump myself up and get myself back to 'me.'

Last month, I completed my first half marathon. I felt I needed to do this to continue to challenge myself and because God has given me a body that is able to - so why not?!   Think you can't do this?  I can assure you - you CAN!!!  I simply followed a 3 times per week training plan and started from step #1.  My goal was simply to finish and I did.  It was tough, but doable.  I never plan to run a marathon, but I do plan to do the 13.1 distance again. What I learned through this challenge is that pushing through the barriers in your mind can truly set you free.  Our minds truly can limit what we do and change how we are feeling.  Running, because every step is hard for me, helps me to get inside my mind and challenge my beliefs and what is possible.  It is parallel to challenges you face in life and how you choose to perceive them.  It also reminded me how people in your life make all the difference.  I had an AWESOME cheering section of friends and family that popped up all along the route.  The encouragement and love they shared, especially near the end when it got really tough for me, was phenomenal.  What a difference they made - I can say if they weren't there my perception of that run would have changed 100%.  Just like in life, it is the people you surround yourself with and the love that gets you through.  Remember, just one word or one act of kindness can entirely change someone's journey.

The Tough Warrior Princesses are also trying to promote the lifestyle approach to doing what is in your control to prevent cancer.  We are working to partner with business in fitness and health.  We are currently working with the YWCA of Newburyport to plan a triathlon.  The difference with this triathlon is that it will be doable for all -- you swim in the pool at the YWCA at your pace -- you swim for a time limit - not a distance.  You swim your distance - your way.  Some might make a 1/2 mile or more -- I know I will dog paddle my way across the pool.  Same with the bike - we will use stationary bikes.  Then we will use the Newburyport Rail Trail for the run/walk portion.  Start thinking about challenging yourself to do this.  More details to follow in the coming months.  TRY our TRI!!!

Please, please vote!!!!  The Anna Jacques hospital is opening the Gerrish Breast Center and in promoting the new endeavor, they have entered a national video contest.  If they win the video contest, The Tough Warrior Princesses will be awarded the $25,000 prize to further our mission of helping women with cancer.  Please go to http://www.pinkglovedance.com/videos/2013-video-contest/anna-jaques-hospital/ and watch and VOTE Now.  Share with your friends and vote every day until November 8th.


TWP have a lot going on.  If you haven't seen our newsletter with event highlights.  Please click here!  We need you to join the army.  One small act that you take can really help us.  Whether it is hitting share on Facebook, liking our Tough Warrior Princess page, driving a patient to treatment, delivering a meal or sending a card.  We post our needs on our Facebook page, please join us there.  Upcoming events include a craft fair with wine, Dining for Dollars at the Longhorn Steakhouse and Emma's Pen Pal Adventure. The newsletter contains all of the details.

So, now I ask you.  What is your next Personal Challenge?  Is it to spend more time on yourself, take a walk every day, eat better, run a 5k. etc.   I need my next challenge.  Anyone have any ideas?

Blessings!

Patty

Change is Hard

“Some changes look negative on the surface but you will soon realize that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge.” 
― Eckhart Tolle

Change is Hard

After 3 years of walking in the Komen 3Day, I am hanging up my sneakers.  At least for this year.  It is such a tough, emotional decision.  I have met the MOST INSPIRING and AWESOME group of people participating in the 3 Day.  It is, without doubt, part of who I am.  It  is painful to make the decision not to walk.  However, I am feeling overwhelmed and need to make some choices.

Without doubt, the Susan G. Komen organization has helped in developing drugs and trials that have helped me personally and are literally keeping friends of mine alive through their funding of research.  I feel my efforts in fundraising over the last 3 years have contributed a lot and I am proud.  I will continue to support Komen and volunteer for them in any way I can.  I will be at the 3 Day, whether Crewing for them or cheering for the walkers.  Nothing will keep me away.  The thought of not walking with my team TWP, this year, is heartbreaking.   I so enjoy the walk and the good it brings out in everyone.  But I know in my heart I am focused on the right things for me right now.  

YOU, my friends, my family and business friends have supported me like no other support system and I don't want to wear out my welcome. Thank you all who have supported me financially or in words and encouragement.  I am truly blessed and so thankful!!  

 I now feel the need to focus on a couple of things that are near and dear to my heart - They are the Tough Warrior Princess organization and Juvenile Diabetes Research.

Tough Warrior Princess - This year our Non Profit has helped so many local women and families suffering with cancer.  Small ways and big ways.  I feel so proud of what we have accomplished and need to focus efforts to keep us growing.  It is difficult when it is an all volunteer effort.  So much needs to be done and so little time to accomplish.  I love seeing exactly where the money we have raised goes and how it impacts each person.  We have such a great base of volunteers and supporters and we need to work keep it all together and improve.  I want to focus on that and not be sidetracked.  There are good things ahead for this group and I'm excited to be a part of it.  I feel the need to send out our message, that TWP is not a breast cancer walking group and it is not about only breast cancer - we support women in our local community with any type of cancer.  Cancer sucks and those who have to endure the journey deserve some love and support and TWP is all about showing support.

Juvenile Diabetes Research  -  I can't even begin to tell you how Juvenile Diabetes Sucks!!  It is a life long condition and there is no cure.  Juvenile Diabetes or Type 1, unlike Type 2 Diabetes, is an autoimmune disease caused when the immune system mistakenly attacks the pancreas and kills off the cells that produce insulin.  It is not known what causes this to happen.  Insulin is a hormone that enables the body to get energy from food.  Type 1 diabetics need insulin continuously to live.  Type 1 diabetics are constantly monitoring blood sugars to do what their body can no longer do.  If your blood sugar is too high, you can develop ketoacidosis- a life threatening condition.  If you are too low, no sugar is getting to your brain for you to function.  A life threatening condition that can happen very quickly.   Watching my daughter, Katie manage and live with this is hard and stressful.  Long term outcomes are scary.  Short term common illnesses are scary, because they interfere with blood sugars.  I feel like there is a cure within reach and need to make sure I do all I can to be a part of fundraising to support the research and new technologies that are being developed to make a diabetic's life easier.   Money we raise goes to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, which is a charity that is doing amazing work and has improved the life of diabetes immensely through their research.   

Lastly, on September 8th I will be walking 26.2 miles in the Jimmy Fund walk in Boston to show support for my friend and inspiration, Tina, who lost her 9 year old daughter, Emma, to neuroblastoma.  I think of Emma every day and so many children who have had to endure cancer.  We need to find a way to a world without cancer.

Stress causes your body's immune system to be weakened.  After cancer, I promised myself to not be the stressed out, crazy person I used to be.  This year I have felt myself slipping back into old habits and this is my way of taking steps to be sure I stay healthy.

Thank you all for your love and support.

Blessings,
Patty 

“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.” 
― Wayne W. Dyer

A Fork in the Road

Wow, it's been a crazy summer and I have been neglectful of this blog.  There is so much going on with TWP, I would like to share some bits and pieces. 

First and most importantly I want to send out love to Tina Journeay and her family.  Tina is the Treasurer of TWP and her 9 year old beautiful daughter just lost her fight with Neuroblastoma.  No words can ever express to Tina how much she is loved and how we wish we could take away her pain.  Emma was the youngest Tough Warrior Princess and she was also the strongest.  

To honor Emma, many TWP members are joining a team called EVERY STEP FOR EMMA.  This team will walk for The Dana Farber Jimmy Fund Walk on September 9th.  Please consider joining our team or making a donation to one of the team members.  I have hit my goal, but Alexa and Katie have both signed up and need to reach goal, as many other teammates do.  This link goes to Alexa's fundraising page.  She needs to raise $300. This link goes to Katie's fundraising page, she needs to raise $100. To donate to another member of our team you can go to the TEAM page from either of these links.  We all wonder what we can do and feel HELPLESS.  This is what we know how to do.  We know how to fundraise and we know how to walk.  We need to END CANCER! Every Step for Emma.

At the end of July Alexa and I, along with my wonderful team of TWP's, embarked upon another 60 Mile journey for the Susan G. Komen 3-Day.  It was so bittersweet this year, as Tina was unable to be with us except for the opening and closing ceremonies.  The heartache in the air was thick, but so was the magic.  Thank you to every Princess who took the journey. Most especially, thank you to my beautiful daughter Alexa.  I am grateful for the experience I shared with her and so proud of her incredible fundraising efforts and spunk and positivity for the entire 60 mile walk.   Let's put an end to breast cancer.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart to each and every person who donated to this cause.  The team was able to raise almost $70,000 this year.

                                        As always, Dad and Tucky are there to support us!

From Left to Right - The TWP Cancer Survivors - Me, Tina Journeay, Sherri Ziomek, Sandy Schneider, Dana Fagerquist, Maurine Turcotte and Allison Jaloszynski

                                                               The 2012 Walk Team 

                                                                My daughter Alexa

Tough Warrior Princess as an organization is growing and changing rapidly and I feel passion for our purpose like never before.  I am starting to see more and more direct impact from our efforts.  

We have been able to help some phenomenal women, men and families lately and it is more than an honor for us to do so.  The appreciation of small things that we can do is amazing.   The needs keep rolling in and the needs keep getting larger.  When a woman is dealing with cancer and can't afford basic essentials for her children it is heart wrenching.  Being forced back to work, while coping with debilitating side effects and trying to hold it all together with all the stress is unimaginable.  If we can lighten anyone's load in any way, we do it.  

Our survivor baskets have been a huge hit, thanks to a grant from the The Institution for Savings! The first contact with any person we help is the Survivor Basket.  These are filled with helpful items someone might need when faced with surgeries, chemo and radiation.  The baskets are customized to the type of cancer and the individual's family situation and needs. 

Our fundraising efforts for TWP continue.  We had a Flatbread fundraiser night that brought in over $700.  Many, many thanks go out to Flatbread, as they have supported us for 3 years now.  They have also offered to put Flatbread gift cards in our survivor baskets.  Things like this really go a long way.  

There is a sunset river cruise on Sept. 2nd and proceeds will be donated to us.  What an honor - a fundraiser planned for us!  Doesn't get much better.  Sorry all, the boat is already sold out!!  

We are working on a calendar - The Men of Amesbury support Cancer Awareness.  Each month of the calendar will represent a different type of cancer and feature that cancer's associated color.  We have many groups participating including our esteemed Mayor Thatcher Kezer, the Amesbury Police Dept, many local youth sports teams, our Veteran's, etc.  The calendars will be sold in participating shops down town starting in October.  

October brings breast cancer awareness month.  We are planning to light Amesbury Pink.  Pink light bulbs will be available at Amesbury Industrial Supply.  Stay tuned for more details.  Each year, we hope to light the town a different color one month of the year.  

We also have our annual Princess Tea Party in October!  Last year was AMAZING and this year is looking to be bigger and better.  

We have just partnered with a company called Op4G.  This company out of Portsmouth, NH is a market research community benefiting Non-Profits through paid survey activities taken by members.  Please consider becoming a member of Op4G today and choosing The Tough Warrior Princesses as your charity of choice.  When surveys become available to members, you receive an email telling you what the survey is and how much $ it will generate for your charity.  We would be honored if you took this action on our behalf.  Go to www.op4g.com today and choose Join Us!

All funds from these fundraisers go directly to Tough Warrior Princesses.  We are 100% volunteer based and have no overhead.  Your money goes directly to LOCAL women and their families impacted by cancer. Not just breast cancer... ANY type of cancer. 

This weekend was our debut with the YWCA!  We have partnered with the YWCA of Newburyport and their Encore program.  The motto between our organizations is "Embracing the Possibilies."   The YWCA Encore program is a free session based program designed specifically for those who have experienced breast cancer at any time in their lives. Incorporating gentle exercises, relaxation techniques, information and peer group support, it is safe, fun and therapeutic. The land exercise program is specially designed to target areas that have been affected by breast cancer surgery and treatment. Gentle, but effective exercises improve strength, mobility and flexibility while the warm water aquatic program relieves affected muscles. The peer group support sessions provide an opportunity for people to share their experiences in a safe and supportive environment.  Participation is free and no membership is required.  The families of the TWP joined together with women participating in the Encore program and had a pool and garden party celebrating the partnership.  It was fantastic.  We are so very lucky to have partnered with this wonderful organization.  A huge thank you goes out to Charlene Dolan and Danielle Holmes of Dolan Financial Services in Amesbury, MA.  They  provided the food and supplies for the pool party and were the people who got us in touch with the YWCA in the first place.  They have been invaluable to us in so many aspects and TWP wouldn't be where they are today or what we will be in the future without them.  

                                                                                    The joint logo - I love this!!

Lastly, I invite you to come join the fun.  On Wednesday, September 19th, TWP is having it's first open, general meeting.  Anyone is invited.  We are looking to brainstorm and plan for our future.  We will be meeting at the Newburyport Five Cents Savings Bank at 43 Main Street in Amesbury, MA at 7:00 p.m.  We need you!!

 Meetings not for you?  You can become a member for $10.00 and support us just by that fee or select other volunteer opportunities.  Go to www.toughwarriorprincess.com to join. 

Or, simply Share or forward this blog.  It may touch someone to join Every Step for Emma or come out to a meeting.  Every little thing counts!

I am hoping everyone had a wonderful summer.  I know I am looking forward to getting back to some structure and cooler days.  Thank you for taking the time to let me share the TWP story and as always, thank you for the support!  I hope you take a moment here to say a prayer for the Journeay family.  

Blessings!

Patty

  

HEROES.....

It's a rainy Saturday morning and I am blessed to be quietly reflecting and drinking my warm coffee.  I am thinking about friends and acquaintances and people who are heroes to me and why. 

Let's start with Kelsey - my young 11 year old friend who holds her birthday party each year and asks her friends to donate to my annual walk.  She has officially raised over $5,000 for my walk in the 3 years she has done this.  Her personal life story and her struggles makes most people's pale in comparison.  Her journey is tough, but she is tougher!  Check out the new addition to the Tough Warrior Princess website - Kelsey's Corner.  http://www.toughwarriorprincess.com/kelseys_corner.html

Then, there is a young girl who is turning 9 this weekend.   My friend Emma.  Her mom and grandmother are breast cancer survivors.  Emma is battling stage IV Neuroblastoma.  This has been going on for almost a year and Emma has faced beyond grueling treatments and is about to be admitted for another month of stem cell transplants.  The horror of what she has faced and is going through now is so far beyond words.  This girl is STRONG.  This girl is a hero.  Check out the article about her in the Newburyport news.  http://www.newburyportnews.com/lifestyle/x1647291855/A-world-of-friends
Consider becoming part of Emma's Penpal Adventure Around the World on Facebook.

Then, we have Emma's mom, Tina.  Talk about amazing beyond words...  A breast cancer survivor and Treasurer of the Tough Warrior Princess organization.  Tina teaches Emma how to fight and how to appreciate life and not let it get you down.  Tina continues to stay connected to her friends for love and support.  She attends Tough Warrior Princess meetings, contributes as if there is nothing else going on in her life, and continues to go on training walks with our team as life permits.  She also helps her mom fight a battle with breast cancer at the same time.  She is a constant ray of sunshine as she teaches us how to appreciate our lives in a quiet way. 

I am also watching a few of my dear friend's children graduate this year.  It is so strange to look back and know I have watched these kids since they were little.  I have watched their parents influence on their lives and am proud to call these parents my friends.  I have learned a lot watching them and hope to be as successful in my parenting.  I have had some great examples to follow. 

The Tough Warrior Princess organization continues to grow.  We got some coverage in our local paper and that has been a blessing in connecting us and our cause to our community.  http://www.newburyportnews.com/lifestyle/x234161534/Local-nonprofit-helps-families-fighting-cancer   We had our annual 'Dance Like a Princess' silent auction event this past month and are blessed with the success and support.  With even more expenses this year, our event raised a net of $17,000.  This $17,000 goes to two places - the Tough Warrior Princess portion of the funds goes to our mission of helping women and their families impacted by cancer of any type.  The other portion of the funds goes to the other part of our mission in raising funds for breast cancer research in hopes of finding a cure.  The funds are divided between the walkers on our team that are walking in the Susan G. Komen 3 Day for the Cure. 

We are thankful for the support.  The businesses in our local communities and the support of friends and family far and wide make it possible. 

Stay tuned as we explore new opportunities to expand our mission of helping women with cancer. 
We are working on our first official newsletter and welcoming new members who want to help suppport our mission.  To learn more go to www.toughwarriorprincess.com

Back to Heroes -- Take a moment this weekend to quietly honor the heroes in your life.  I bet there are many!!

Blessings!

Patty Mellon

Magic when you need it most!

There are times I must admit that I wonder if we did the right thing in starting the Tough Warrior Princess non-profit organization. Some days it seems daunting. The auction items for our May silent auction fundraiser are coming in much slower this year, as are donations and it gets stressful.  We want to pull off the best fundraising event possible. It's the Type A personality in me and in a lot of our committed teammates. I am realizing more and more that there just is not time to fit it all in and be able to do everything you want to do.

We had a TWP board meeting this week and our worries were dicussed. After the board meeting, I felt better, as we accomplished a lot. One of the topics were that we didn't know how we would get a cake donated for our event this year. Another topic was wondering if we were going to get the grant we had applied for to start doing survivor baskets. Another worry that I had this week is my own fundraising for my Komen walk.

We have always said the there is something called TWP magic. It often happens when we are all together, but there are so many serendipitous events that have led us to where we are it is almost a magical journey. Well, in true style and just when we needed the boost, TWP magic struck again!!! The morning after our TWP board meeting, we get a new membership form submitted on our website -- it is a woman who had been to our event last year and was wanting to be able to help. Guess what she offered?!.... To donate a cake for our event!!! 

Today, we received word that we got the grant from the Institution for Savings!!! Our very first grant!!! This grant will be used to make Survivor Gift Baskets. These baskets will contain various items one needs when going through a cancer dianosis and treatment. We want to really show our support for women with a cancer diagnosis and help her through it. The basket will be the first symbol of our commitment and caring.

Then, I was contacted by my very favorite people -- Kelsey and her mom. Kelsey is the young girl who, for the last 2 years, has held her birthday party and asks that her gifts be in the form of donations to Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure to help support my walk! They let me know that once again, Kelsey has chosen to do yet another birthday party without gifts for her, but gifts that she hope will help others. Kelsey's personal story is one of strength, determination, power and love like I have never seen. I have written about her in my past blogs. Her story is more than magic.

Another exciting thing on the horizon is the connection we have made with a company called The b Positive Project. I ran into the company when running in a 5k last year and bought a great tshirt with their logo.  Their message.. b Inspired b Motivated b Positive. The purchase of this TShirt helped fund the charity that had sponsored this particular 5k. b Positive, in their line of business, helps charities succeed and espouses a fantastic message. We are now in talks with them to get a line of clothing with our Princess on the front, but also the b Positive logo! Sales of these shirts will further help fund our cause and help us get word out about The Tough Warrior Princesses.   (If you go to their website and buy anything, please use TWP code so 20% of proceeds come back to us!)

So, wrapping up the week, my attitude has shifted back to that of power and hope. I am back to being inspired, motivated and positive!! That is where my attitude belongs.

Please, please mark your calendars for May 19th. Our 3rd Annual Dance Like a Princess Silent Auction will be held at the Holy Family Parish Hall in Amesbury. Tickets can be purchased online at www.toughwarriorprincess.com.

Thank you all for your support!!

Blessings!

Patty

.....IT IS THE STUFF THAT MATTERS MOST!

After being diagnosed in 2008 and having my treatment plan after my initial surgery, which found more cancer, completely blow up into more surgery and more treatment, I got really scared.  We made the plans for my next surgery, which would be a double mastectomy with reconstruction.... I was beyond frightened but resolved in what the next steps had to be.  I looked at my young children and realized before the next round of surgery we needed to get away.   Surgery was planned and the trip was planned.  We took the kids to Disney and had the time of our lives.  I truly enjoyed that vacation and it helped put my mind in the right place. 

I just returned from a trip to Florida with my family - not Disney this time, but just a warm, sunny relaxing trip with my beautiful family.  It was our first trip - other than skiing - since that time.  It put me back in the same space in a lot of aspects and helped me to appreciate the small stuff -- which is not really the small stuff .... It is the stuff that matters most.

Please remember in your daily lives, what if tomorrow it were all to change?  What would you cherish about today?  I cherish YOU - my friends and my family.

Please take a moment to hit this link to my friend and teammate, Sherri's blog.  Sherri eloquently explains why we continue to support Komen and outlines why we are working to grow THE TOUGH WARRIOR PRINCESS organization.  Our mission is to help women fighting any type of cancer.  Cancer is cancer.  Doesn't matter the origination - WE NEED A CURE.... NOW!

Sherri's Blog:  http://sherris3day.blogspot.com/. 

Without Sherri, there would be no Tough Warrior Princesses!  For those of you that don't know Sherri, she is also a survivor.  She is my age and went through her diagnoses and treatment just before me.  I remember being so scared for her then. Watching her and her family of 3 young children cope with it all.    Then, when it happened to me, she became my source and my family's sources for understanding, comfort and simple friendship.  We have been through so much together and together will  MAKE A DIFFERENCE. 

Blessings!

Patty

Determined to keep moving on!

Happy New Year!

New Year's thoughts.. thought I might learn to cook in 2012.... No, just kidding. Not where my efforts belong and it sounds like torture. I have had the last week of the year off and due to Mike's recent ACL surgery on his knee there is no skiing for us, so we have been home. Most of the week I haven't felt great. The stomach bug has ripped through everyone I know, but I seem to have escaped the extreme of it. I just felt off for days on end. I spent those days cleaning closets and organizing in hopes of feeling more in control and organized in my life. I have had some time to be still and ponder and reflect and think about how to energize for 2012. I wish I could say I came up with something amazing, but really haven't. We think of the new year as a new start and it is and I'm looking forward to a new year ... but every day is a new start and a new opportunity.

For 2012, I plan to keep myself surrounded by those who enrich my life. The people and thoughts you surround yourself with, in my opinion, make a huge difference in your life. What are your plans for 2012? Put it out there - so we can all hold each other up!

The Tough Warrior Princesses have been on a break and need to re-focus and energize. It is definitely a cycle and knowing what to do next is a challenge. The line between the passion and the amount of work that it takes and knowing when to get out of people's faces is always in the thought process. There has been so much happiness and sadness this year for our group. Above all we have built a support system like none other. I look forward to our 2012 experience and doing all the things we need to walk 60 miles again as well as growing the Tough Warrior Princess non-profit and helping and supporting those in need.

Thank you for reading and supporting me! The connections I have made from this blog are astounding and I appreciate each and every one.

I wish you all the best 2012!!! Where hopefully we all take small steps to embrace our experiences and work to improve our lives and the lives of everyone around us.

Blessings,

Patty

Stressed?!!!

This time of year starts to get crazy for all of us. Thanksgiving is in the air and Christmas around the corner. The calendars fill up with events - both ones that we are happy and not so happy about. The to-do lists grow longer. I know this time of year is always more stressful for me.

We all know what stress can do to our immune system. The studies conflict, but stress is linked to cancer and tumor growth. Being a stressed Type A person by nature I am in constant battle with the stress reaction as it is very real in how it affects my body. I believe that stress is a huge cause of inflammation in the body and that causes many, many physical ailments.

I had considered myself doing quite well with my stress response, and keeping things in perspective. Lately, not so much. The house has been torn up as we try to put new floors in 3 rooms upstairs, work is busy, family is busy, there is worry about health and circumstances of family and friends and it goes on and on. So I am trying to reel it all in and get things back in perspective and focus on the moment and not worry about the details of later or tomorrow.

Well, that is easier said than done!!! Here are my top stress relievers:

Exercise Always - I exercise consistently whether walking, running or doing bootcamp. I know, however, that this time of year is when it is easier to skip workouts because of the calendar, the cold, the dark, etc.... I am trying to keep this to a minimum this year. Every time I exercise, I am thankful that I CAN exercise. My body is healthy and strong and knowing that gets me through the toughest workouts. I try to remember the days when I couldn't exercise or thought I never would again and that puts me in the grateful mode. I feel GREAT afterwards and the stress levels are definitely down as a result.

Breathe Deeply - I have stopped a few times lately just to breathe. I notice that I barely breathe. I am consciously trying to take a few deep breaths throughout the day. A large inhale, hold it for a bit and then exhale it all out slowly. It is an instant calmer.

Keep Perspective - on the big picture, on the little things - on everything.. Enough said!

Connections - I try to stay connected consistently to the people who enhance my life. It's easy to let life take over, but there is never an excuse! Venting to a friend, sharing a story, just saying hello - it always helps. I also try to make a small difference is someone else's life as often as possible. A smile, a kind word, showing some empathy. I am also always focused on new connections and how those connections can change your life.

I am interested in some feedback here. What do YOU do to minimize stress? My latest attempt is a stab at testing to see if reducing/eliminating white sugar and flour changes my stress levels -- amongst other benefits I am looking for. It's been a couple of weeks and the results are not in. I will keep you posted.

Here's to a less stressed holiday season for us all!

Blessings,

Patty


















PATTY



http://www.pattys3day.blogspot.com

An October Update....

In my last blog post(a long time ago), I talked about the inspiration and beauty of the 3 Day walk and what it's like to be surrounded by people all fighting for the same cause. Magical.

A few weeks ago me and 3 other Tough Warrior Princesses, Cheryl, Sherri and Jody all traveled to Washington D.C. to volunteer to work the 3-Day walk there. We volunteered for traffic control. We flew into D.C. early Thursday morning in order to be there the day before the walk started so that we could attend "crew" meetings that instructed us what we would be responsible for over the coming 3 days. Our Traffic Control duties seemed like they shouldn't be too difficult and we were hoping to get the opportunity to cheer on walkers. Well.... our duties as traffic control were a bit harder than imagined. To say that we were soaked, muddy, tired beyond anything I have experienced would be an understatement.

The weekend was wrought with emotion as Jody experienced a loss in her family while we were away. Our teammate Maurine was facing new treatment for her advancing breast cancer that Monday, and our thoughts never went far from another teammate and her beautiful young daughter, who are experiencing some extremely tough times.

Arriving home, I don't think I have ever been so happy. Seeing Mike standing in the terminal waiting as we arrived from our flight was the highlight of my weekend for sure!

It was a long weekend spent for a cause so near and dear to my heart. I was challenged physically and emotionally. The three women I shared the experience with were my rocks. I'm honored to have done this with them. I'm very glad to have had the experience. Thank you and congratulations to all the D.C. walkers! $7 Million raised!!! I will tell you it is much easier, in my opinion, to walk 60 miles then Crew the event. I think I'd even walk 120 Miles!

The next day, I had the opportunity to take Maurine (fellow Tough Warrior Princess) into Dana Farber to start a Phase I trial treatment. Maurine has been in trial treatment before, but not Phase I. We arrived at 7:45 in the morning and stayed until 8:15 that evening. To say that Maurine is a guinea pig would be an understatement. We spent the day on the research floor - Maurine had tests run in the a.m. and then, once cleared had her first treatment of this new trial. After each weekly treatment that Maurine will now receive, she then has to spend 8 hours in the research lab having heart and blood tests. She is one of 16 women in the entire world enrolled to this trial. It was an eye opening experience... scary, exciting and interesting. Side effects? Drug interactions? Well some are known, but lots aren't. She is the research! Despite what the circumstances were, Maurine and I had a great day. (at least I think she had a great day - I know I did - but I wasn't the guinea pig.) We laughed a lot, because if you know Maurine, she can make any circumstance comical. It wasn't all laughter, as we talked a lot about life and how unfair it can be. But if you put your situation in perspective, it usually isn't all that bad. Maurine bounced around the Dana Farber building entertaining her chemo nurses from the prior trial and even entertaining her oncologist. She opined about her thoughts on the cure. Of course, she always has a new idea brewing!!

In honor of breast cancer awareness month, I must say this. In watching Maurine deal with the side effects of the trial, about getting bad news of another friend with late stage metastatic breast cancer, in remembering it is the month I lost my young mother to breast cancer 17 years ago on her 25th Wedding anniversary...

It seems to me that we often make a breast cancer diagnosis look easy. Look at the images on TV, all the talk of survivors, all the pretty pink.... I know that I have always been vocal about the bright side of my experience and always say in some strange way it has changed me for the better. It has and I am grateful and I live differently now. But, going through it was Hell for me and my family and friends. There is nothing uplifting or pretty about it, as with any and all cancers. It is not a feel good experience. Yes, there are better treatments than their were 17 years ago when I lost my mom... but there is NO CURE. That is what needs to be focused on not just in October and not just breast cancer.

Having got that off my chest....

We have also spent our time recently in the Mellon family raising funds for Juvenile Diabetes for the walk that Katie and her 'Krew' did in Boston on October 2nd. The following weekend we continued our fundrasisisng efforts as we hosted the Roberta Mellon Memorial Tournment at the Amesbury Golf & Country Club. The tournament was a great success and we are blessed with some great friends and family. Looks like about $4,000 was raised after expenses. Most of the money will go to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and a portion will also go to the Amesbury High School Golf team. It was great to have some members of the golf team present and playing in the tournament. The local business community of support was fantastic!

Our Tough Warrior Princess Team training continues for the upcoming October 30th Komen 5k Race for the Cure. 9 weeks ago, we started a Couch to 5k running program and the turnout was amazing. We have runners and walkers at all levels and since we are training at the track, we can all run our different paces while motivating one another to continue. We will continue training and will be running as Team Tough Warrior Princess on October 30th in Boston. If you are interested in running, sign up and become a Princess. The more the merrier!

The Princesses got together this past weekend for a night out. I was so nice connecting with some that I don't get to see as often as I would like. It seems that everyone on this team somehow plays off one another and each person is a better person as a result. Going into the 2011 walk, I was worried that a team of 32 people really couldn't share the close bonds like a team of 10 did -- How wrong I was!

Finding the Right Words.....

It is such a dilemna trying to find words fitting to describe to you what my experience at the 3-Day was like. There really aren't words to do it justice and I had forgotten just how breathtaking the whole experience is. I did not think my feeling about the 3-Day would ever compare to last year, after all, we had the extra excitement of a film crew following us everywhere last year - how could the excitement be the same? It was!!! There is something magical about 2,000 people all getting together and doing something extraordinary for a cause that is so near and dear to us.

Since the inception of starting the Tough Warrior Princesses there truly has been nothing but magic in everything. So many things have happened and you scratch your head and wonder..... Coincidence? I think NOT!!

Walking this year, Day 1 was one HOT experience, so hot, that they had to close the route down after mile 10 and bus us back to camp. A logistical nightmare if you think about the number of walkers that suddenly needed transportation. I would have liked to continue to walk, but I think it was very smart for Komen to close the route. Many people were hospitalized from heat exhaustion. So we spent the afternoon in the AC of a room in Gann Academy. It was nice to be able to cool down a bit. Most of us used this time to read the mail we had received at camp. I am at a loss to describe the number of tears shed from the letters I received. Thank you to those who sent them - it may seem silly, but when you are in the situation, it is incredible to receive the love and positive support.

On Day 2 the most memorable moments were at the cheering station set up by the Tough Warrior Princesses' family and friends. Thank you to McCue Garden Center in Woburn for letting us use your parking lot and providing watermelons for us to give out to walkers on the route! Day 2 was tough for me in the a.m. as we walked through downpours and thunderstorms - I do not like thunderstorms and was a bit nervous - but survived! The end of day 2 culminated with my friend and teammate, Maurine Turcotte delivering a speech to the 2,000 walkers and crew in attendance. It was both funny, as Maurine always is, and extremely emotional, as Maurine delivered a most memorable talk standing with her two young sons. She ended with... "When someone asks you what you did this weekend, you tell them you gave a mother from Amesbury a little more time with her children and husband." Maurine is in treatment for the rest of her life, as her cancer is metastatic. She is on weekly trial treatments now and these trials are funded in part by what we do. We don't have time, we need the research and the answers NOW.

Another huge part of the 3Day experience is visiting the Remembrance Tent. Alexa and I and many from our team all went together. In the tent are pictures of those walkers we have lost (so many - sooo young) and a tent and where you write messages. I need only say that the somberness and connectedness of these moments is utterly life changing. I watched Maurine's youngest son write a message and Alexa write a message to my mom, whom she never got to meet. These children as so wise beyond their years.

Day 3 started off with.... more Rain! But it quickly turned into a beautiful day. I spent the day walking primarily with my family teammates, Bob, Cheryl and Sue. It meant so much to me to be with them all day and share the experience. We walked pretty fast and got to our lunch stop early so that we could spend a lot of time with our families. Mike brought in Katie and Bob and Cheryl's boys and my brother, Ashley, came in with Olivia. And of course, my Dad! Dad, once again, was at every cheering station and lunch stop possible. He was everywhere! I don't know how he does it.

Leaving from lunch was with the entire team of 32! We had 3 miles to the finish line to walk together as a complete team. More magic. As we walked with our Tough Warrior Princess sign with our survivors holding the sign. A stunning moment came when Jeff Hollett, fellow walker and Iraq soldier, who walks in memory of his sister, asked our team to form a circle of trust around him. With our backs facing inward, he changed into his pink fatigues and our team broke out into singing God Bless America. God Bless you, Jeff, for defending our country and defending the memory of your sister. Boston would not have been the same without you this year.

Next came walking past an area where all the Pink Angels and Cup Crusaders, the 2 largest teams in Boston, were gathered waiting for their teammates. As the Tough Warrior Princesses approached, they all stood up and started clapping and cheering us on. What an honor that was. So many of us have formed forever friendships with these incredible teams and the love, respect and energy was breathtaking! We honor you and thank you!

On into the finish line we marched with tears of sadness and joy. Standing next to the 5 other survivors on our team holding our banner was so incredible. Seeing Mike, Katie and my dad waiting there along with all other teammates family and friends was so fantastic... but the best part was that as we walked in they were "coincidentally" playing the Tough Warrior Princess theme song "I Gotta Feelin'"!!!

I also got another 1 minute of fame as I was interviewed by Fox News. Kind of wishing I didn't look like I had just walked 60 miles - but, hey, "it's all good!" My dad also appeared being interviewed on NECN, but we have been unable to find the footage posted anywhere, although people did see it on the news.

Closing ceremonies were so much fun. Katie and I got to be on stage as I held the My Daughter Flag. The great thing was that the TWP team came in first to closing so they were right in front of the stage. It was so cool to watch them all with the fun, the dancing and the somber emotion as the ceremonies unfolded and we all watched Maurine walk into the Survivor cirle on center stage. My favorite picture from the walk is of Katie and I on stage - the only flag that is in the picture is the My Mother flag. It is stunning to look at that picture of Katie and I and have "My Mother" right behind us. I'll take that as my sign that she was with us and always will be.

Thank you 2011 TEAM TWP!!! The 32 of us were magic! $108,000 and counting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have special memories of each and every person on the team. The struggles, the pain and the complete and utter fun. I am all signed up for the 2012 already! Alexa will also be walking with our team in 2012 and needs to raise her own $2,300. I am so proud of her commitment to this cause and stepping out to take on such a huge challenge! Click here to see Alexa's story and donation page.

As for the upcoming months, the Mellon Family is switching gears. We will walk in October for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. We have a golf tournament coming up to honor Roberta Mellon, who we lost almost one year ago to pancreatic cancer. Proceeds from the tournament will go to Juvenile Diabetes. If you are interested in playing in the tournament on October 7th or joining 'Katie's Krew' and participating in her 3 mile walk in Boston on October 2nd, please let me know. We would love to have a huge team to honor Katie and raise some more money and awareness for this cause.

Thank you for all your love and support!!

Forever grateful and forever changed,

Blessings,

Patty

A Story of Heroes!

There are heroes everywhere, but I have found some truly outstanding ones. In my blog last year, I wrote the story of Kelsey, a young girl who had been severly abused until she was 3, when she was adopted by two Heroes - Heidi and Peter. Heidi and Peter have helped mold Kelsey into one of the most amazing young ladies I have ever met. I met Kelsey for the first time last year when Kelsey had a birthday party and donated all of her gifts to my 2010 Komen walk. $1,000! This year, Kelsey and Heidi endured the most unimaginable loss - Peter passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack. This man was the picture of health. He was in great physical shape. He was a true hero -- not just to Heidi and Kelsey, but to so many others. After making a huge donation to my walk last year, Peter turned to my daughter, Katie and handed her a large donation to her upcoming Juvenile Diabetes walk. Peter had previously lost his brother to Juvenile Diabetes. He was so compassionate, kind and understanding.

This year, after just losing her father, Peter, I was shocked to learn that Kelsey was again going to do a birthday party and donate the proceeds to my 2011 Komen walk. Kelsey just turned 11.... and suffered the worst year. Yet she still wants to do something outside herself in an effort to cure breast cancer. Kelsey was impacted by a teacher in her school who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Kelsey started planning her party and that's where more heroes come into the story. Asha, a friend of Kelsey's with a birthday at the same time asked if she could join in. Kelsey and Asha combined their parties and asked that all gifts be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. WOW. Asha is just turning 10 and already is learning what is important. I'm so grateful to Asha for joining in and making the event even bigger. Then, there are Asha's parents. Chris and Mahdu - obviously heroes - they are raising a great girl. I remember meeting Mahdu at last year's party - she is a special woman.

At the party, everyone wore the same TShirts, breast cancer headbands and beads. It was a stunning event with tons of kids. It was held at CoCo Key Water Resort. Asha and Kelsey had made a gift bag for me with breast cancer items inside. My favorite item is my pink rubber survivor bracelet, which I now wear every day. It reminds me of what it means to be a survivor. Being a survivor means never giving up, making the most of whatever is dealt to you and turning it into the best example you can possibly make it. Heidi and Kelsey are not only heroes, they are true survivors.

Thank you to my heroes - Kelsey and Asha, Chris and Mahdu and dear Heidi and of course, Peter, who I will never forget.

The money is still coming in from the Birthday party.... but the total raised so far by these young ladies is.... $2,160. Now, if 2 young girls can raise that much money in 1 day, what can we all do if we put our minds to it?

Thank you Kelsey and Asha. You are in my heart forever!

Blessings,
Patty

Tales of an Aging Princess.... Growing Better!

Another trip around the sun... it doesn't seem possible. So I just celebrated my 43rd bday, only the funny thing is, for some reason I thought I was 43 all last year, so this feels like a bonus!

Birthdays can be like a cancer diagnosis ~ you face your mortality and at the same time people come out of the woodwork to wish you well and although you may be thinking how old you are you remember the gifts in your life. The people. You reflect on the good and the bad. Some of us choose to look at the bright side and others only see the dark. What I have learned since cancer and facing yet another birthday -- LIVE life. So many people don't ever start living because they are too afraid or will do it tomorrow. I have decided that any time I want to do something, yet some little reason holds me back -- just DO IT!! Take your fear that is holding you from your good and STOMP on it. Now, I haven't done anything crazy, but I make many conscious decisions every day to push ahead with something even when my old self is telling me to hide or back away.

The morning of my birthday we were doing a team training walk. The girls arrive and I'm showered with well wishes, gifts and of course, a tiara. It was a beautiful sunny morning and as we are walking up a hill everyone seems to stop and tell me to look -- I was busy fiddling with my phone and paying no attention. I look up and in the woods is a sign with my picture on it! Sherri had made TONS of signs, as I was soon to find out and they were all posted strategically around our walk route. Each sign had our Princess logo, a pictue of me and words of wisdom or wit. Sherri and Cheryl had spent the morning posting each sign - Crazy girls!!! Of course, Jody came equipped with her camera and the fun we had! I confirmed what I already knew about myself... I don't always pay attention to small details. There was not one sign along the route that I noticed first, w/out someone slowing down or stopping so that I would. And these signs were not small or bland.... Big and colorful and awesome, just like our team. Thanks ladies!!! Best bday gift ever!

Some of us from our team went out and did the 20 Mile Walk for Hunger in Boston this weekend. It was a fantastic day and a great training walk. We also celebrated another team member and young survivor's birthday along the walk - Tina Journeay. Happy Birthday Tina and thanks for spending it with us! The Boston walk was a nice change of scenery from walking the streets of Amesbury.

Our training walks are ramping up and any given weekend if you drive around Amesbury, Merrimac or Newburport you are likely to spot a group of very dedicated walkers in training.

Dance Like a Princess Silent Auction is planned and coming together. We have over 130 auction items -- please don't miss this!! We have everything from spa's to sporting events, family photos to airline tickets, restaurants to boat cruises. We have many Boston and other North Shore items this year as well. I could go on and on. The items are AMAZING! Come out and show your support. We have spent a lot of time putting this together. It means so much when you see a friend walk through the door. The support is what makes it possible. To get your tickets you can contact me or go to www.toughwarriorprincess.com and purchase them right on line. Please don't wait!!! We want to see your smiling face at this event.

Tough Warrior Princesses are well on their way to being a NonProfit. Our official mission statement is: "The Tough Warrior Princessses are committed to raising funds for breast cancer research, educating and enlightening the public on the need to find a cure, and providing support to local women and their families impacted by cancer."

(We are trying to get the word out to find an attorney to help. If you know of anyone capable and willing to donate some time to a great cause, let me know)

This weekend I have two amazing young girls, Kelsey and her friend Asha, who are having their birthday parties and donating all of the proceeds to my walk. The party is at CoCo Key Water Resort. Many of you will recall my blog post from a year ago highlighting Kelsey's unique and stunning story. This year, it means even more, as she has recently lost her father. I am so excited to be able to spend this day with them! I'll be sure to update soon to let you know how it goes.

Last, but not least, Congratulations to Sherri Ziomek, Breast Cancer Survivor, TWP Captain and Great Friend. She celebrated 5 Years Cancer Free! She is a shining example of hope. Here's to many more years of those types of anniversaries!

Blessings!