The walk is getting close and training is in high gear. This past weekend was the back to back 18 mile / 15 mile training walk weekend. Although, due to most of us doing or volunteering at the Warrior Dash all day Saturday, there are some of us who did not get both walks in. This is the best time, the fundraising is wrapping up and the focus goes to training for and getting excited for our 3 Day walk. What I enjoyed most last year and am again this year is watching those that have never walked such high miles use their strength and determination to go the distance. Pushing through pain, making the time to do it and just going for it. I love watching the transformation. My vote for Warriors of the week for walking go to Barbara and Melanie. The two women have inspired me to challenge myself further. Love the heart you two have! Our training walks have been a blast and it is just fun getting the miles in and getting to know new teammates. We really have a great team!
Oh, wait, other Warriors from our team -- Cheryl, Bob, Julie, Marion, Sandy S, Sandy G, all the ladies from Synergy Fitness and ME! We did the Warrior Dash, a crazy mud filled 3 mile obstacle course through hilly woods, on Saturday. Not only did we finish, but at the end there is a very high roped wall you need to climb up and come over. It was the scariest thing I have ever done and near the top I knew I had completely lost my mind. But I came to do the race to face some fears and this was the biggest fear -- (well the whole mud everywhere thing was scary too) Sitting at the top trying to decide if I should just back down the way I had gotten up or take the leap and step over it and turn around and come down, I really had to struggle. I was shaking like crazy, looking down with my mud soaked body and sneakers and hands, and thought what if I slip? Then came the surge .... I CAN do this!! It was awesome!!! I got to the bottom and watched Cheryl conquer the same fears and were so proud of how far the 2 of us have come in the last two years! It was great... But I am still trying to get the dirt out from under my toenails. Yuck!!!
The TWP team had committed to providing 50 volunteers to staff the Warrior Dash and I just feel honored at the people who turned out to help us. These crazy women showed up at 6 in the morning in the downpours and thunderstorms. Amazing!!! I think the people who ran the race had it easier than these volunteers who were completely soaked and spent their day working hard. Thank you so much to my friends who did this! There are no words for how I felt when I saw the sheer numbers of you and felt the positive energy! Another $2,000 raised for Team Tough Warrior Princess!!
Alexa is once again on the Youth Corp. for the 3 Day walk. This means she is one of 20 children who will be working very hard those 3 Days at any task that needs doing. Cheering on participants and spreading love. I think this is harder than the walking 60 mile thing. I am so proud of her for raising the money, sharing the experience with me and taking on this challenge again. We also have Dylan and Tyler Turcotte on Youth Corp. and I know they will rock it!
Team TWP is almost at $90,000 so far this year and that doesn't count what our Youth Corp. has raised as well as other funds that are going towards the mission of the TWP. We are well on our way to our $100,000 2011 Goal and our official Non-Profit status.
My challenge for you this week - pick one fear and face it in some way. Leave a comment -- what is your fear and how will you take a step to face it. It really is empowering!
Blessings!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
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
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
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
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!
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!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Service Above Self.... Thank you Haverhill Rotary!
On March 10th, Sherri and I had the honor of speaking at the Haverhill Rotary Club. What a welcoming group! Thank you to Chuck Traver and the Haverhill Rotary for the opportunity. We are most grateful.
As the Rotary went through their business meeting before we spoke, one of the members stood up and announced she was happy to be back after some months away from the group. She explained that she had been battling breast cancer. She proudly announced her move into survivorship and the group welcomed her back with great applause.
When Sherri and I got up to speak, I was so overcome with emotion... I was looking at the survivor in the group and was just overwhelmed with it all. Thoughts of my mom, our teammate Maurine (with metastatic bc), my other YOUNG survivor teammates and this new survivor just bowled me over. I know I am immersed in the bc world, but it seems epidemic to me. I am so happy, though, that a group like the Rotary is so open to hearing what we have to say.
Sherri and I talked, not about our disease, but about HOPE and the ability to make a difference. We were able to play our video Walk Like a Princess for the group and it definitely had the impact I thought it may. I noticed some tears in the audience. Of course, Rotarians know firsthand the ability to make a difference. The Rotary motto is Service Above Self. Enough said.
Team update - We are now 30 members strong! If you haven't checked out the updated website, please do! www.toughwarriorprincess.com
On the website you can purchase your tickets to the May 14th Dance Like a Princess event.
We also have a new section on the website for Upcoming Events and Other Ways to Help. We have interesting ways in which you can help outside of the traditional donation. We are looking for event volunteers for the Warrior Dash on 6/25 (you can sign up online) and we have an Avon event from the 18th to the 28th of March, where we will be making 50% of everything purchased.
I just went out for my first official training run of the spring. Gotta get this body in shape for the Warrior Dash!
Happy Spring!
Blessings,
Patty
As the Rotary went through their business meeting before we spoke, one of the members stood up and announced she was happy to be back after some months away from the group. She explained that she had been battling breast cancer. She proudly announced her move into survivorship and the group welcomed her back with great applause.
When Sherri and I got up to speak, I was so overcome with emotion... I was looking at the survivor in the group and was just overwhelmed with it all. Thoughts of my mom, our teammate Maurine (with metastatic bc), my other YOUNG survivor teammates and this new survivor just bowled me over. I know I am immersed in the bc world, but it seems epidemic to me. I am so happy, though, that a group like the Rotary is so open to hearing what we have to say.
Sherri and I talked, not about our disease, but about HOPE and the ability to make a difference. We were able to play our video Walk Like a Princess for the group and it definitely had the impact I thought it may. I noticed some tears in the audience. Of course, Rotarians know firsthand the ability to make a difference. The Rotary motto is Service Above Self. Enough said.
Team update - We are now 30 members strong! If you haven't checked out the updated website, please do! www.toughwarriorprincess.com
On the website you can purchase your tickets to the May 14th Dance Like a Princess event.
We also have a new section on the website for Upcoming Events and Other Ways to Help. We have interesting ways in which you can help outside of the traditional donation. We are looking for event volunteers for the Warrior Dash on 6/25 (you can sign up online) and we have an Avon event from the 18th to the 28th of March, where we will be making 50% of everything purchased.
I just went out for my first official training run of the spring. Gotta get this body in shape for the Warrior Dash!
Happy Spring!
Blessings,
Patty
Friday, March 4, 2011
The people in our lives help shape our lives ....
I believe certain people are in our lives for a reason. I also believe that the people we choose to surround ourselves with help determine who we are and how we behave and view adversities. We can look at adversity and face it head on and overcome it in the best way possible or we can let those situations overcome us.
This past week I spent some time with two true Tough Warrior Princesses. I have neatly labeled myself a Tough Warrior Princess and to me, I am so much tougher than I ever thought I could possibly be, however, in most area's of my life, I truly have Princess status. I am married to the MOST wonderful man in the world. He lets me be a Princess and knows there are so many ways I am not tough and barely know what a warrior is. When my car breaks down, the windshield washer fluid gets low, a light goes out in the house, the cat pukes, an appliance breaks - not a worry - Mike will take care of it. I am helpless! I can't imagine taking care of a home on my own. And he is a great cook too!!
My friends Lisa and Sue - they are Tough! Both are single mom's with teenage children. Yes, I knew they were both intelligent, accomplished and strong; but I did not know the extent of it. Mike and I rented a house with them up in Stowe to ski during February vacation week. I watched these two women all week and they showed me what it means to be tough. Sue's car transmission blew right before the trip and she had to deal with not only how to get it fixed while she was away, but to figure out how to pay for such a huge unexpected expense. Yet, she skied and her kids skied and they dealt with it; and she was a blast to be around. I got a glimpse into Sue's life and I am in awe of what a great mother she is and how extremely hard she works. She has to deal with stuff that I would never know how to deal with on my own. Then there is Lisa, who I have known a lot longer. Lisa took care of Alexa for me since Alexa was very young. I always knew how strong and independent she was. I am so happy that Lisa has had such a huge influence on Alexa's life, what a great example! Lisa always finds a way to make things happen. She never sits back and always has a plan. I watch her work two jobs and raise 3 amazing children and own her own home. Her children, unknowingly still, are so blessed. That she finds ways to afford to always take them on the special trips that will define their childhood memories and be a great role model.
I'm speaking for Lisa and Sue here, but life hasn't gone exactly as planned for either of them, yet they are stunning examples of strength and positive action and certainly show me how to be better.
The official definition of a Tough Warrior Princess is a strong female personality, determined in the pursuit of her goals and often eager to do take on a typical 'man's work' like fighting wars or performing manual labor to accomplish those goals -- when of a royal backround, a woman warrior may be called a warrior princess.
I want part of the mission of the Tough Warrior Princesses to be to show women who are in tough situations that they can rise above. You can sit back and have the pity party and let life swallow you or you can decide to be the change by making it happen. Sometimes simply taking the focus off of yourself is the beginning of true change.
Sherri and I went to our oncology appointments together recently at Dana Farber. We have the same oncologist and coincidentally had appointments the same day. We were talking with our oncologist about the fact that New Balance had done the video and how we had recently set up the Tough Warrior Princesses as an organization and would be filing for non-profit status. This gives us room to direct funds we raise in other directions, besides just our Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure walks. Our oncologist told us stories of the needs of women she sees every single day. She sees a lot of younger women who are either single or divorced with small support systems. Every day that they come in for treatment is a day out of work with no pay - which cannot be afforded. These younger women have trouble finding rides to treatment, as their circle of friends typically all are working as well and also cannot afford to take a day out. I remember how lucky I felt that I had not only a HUGE support system, but the luxury of taking time out of work and two layers of disability policies from which to draw. And, still, how hard it was to stay strong and face each of the steps of treatment and unknown outcomes. I surrounded myself with people who certainly let me have my down moments and pity parties, but each and every time they pulled me up by an example of strength and wisdom. (Call Cheryl if you want to know what an Un-Tough Warrior I was at moments of my journey)
I want to help women who don't have the support systems, who don't have the luxury of disability or the luxury of friends waiting in line to take them to chemo. Who have to deal with getting children to and from school or day care, when they can't. I'm sure some of these women have never had examples of what a Tough woman can do when she sets her mind to it and never had the luxury of being a princess.
I wish I could describe to you (I'm sure I will in another post) each of the women and my wonderful token male brother we have on the Tough Warrior Princess team this year. We are truly defining Tough Warrior Princess. Each person brings a whole new dimension to our team and I know that as a group we have the power to make a HUGE difference.
Lastly - but certainly not least -- please mark your calendars - Saturday, May 14th for the 2nd Annual Dance Like A Princess Silent Auction!!! Plans are well under way and tickets will soon be available for purchase directly from our website. It will be held from 7-12 in Amesbury at the Holy Family Parish Hall.
Thank you so much for your support!
Blessings!
Patty
This past week I spent some time with two true Tough Warrior Princesses. I have neatly labeled myself a Tough Warrior Princess and to me, I am so much tougher than I ever thought I could possibly be, however, in most area's of my life, I truly have Princess status. I am married to the MOST wonderful man in the world. He lets me be a Princess and knows there are so many ways I am not tough and barely know what a warrior is. When my car breaks down, the windshield washer fluid gets low, a light goes out in the house, the cat pukes, an appliance breaks - not a worry - Mike will take care of it. I am helpless! I can't imagine taking care of a home on my own. And he is a great cook too!!
My friends Lisa and Sue - they are Tough! Both are single mom's with teenage children. Yes, I knew they were both intelligent, accomplished and strong; but I did not know the extent of it. Mike and I rented a house with them up in Stowe to ski during February vacation week. I watched these two women all week and they showed me what it means to be tough. Sue's car transmission blew right before the trip and she had to deal with not only how to get it fixed while she was away, but to figure out how to pay for such a huge unexpected expense. Yet, she skied and her kids skied and they dealt with it; and she was a blast to be around. I got a glimpse into Sue's life and I am in awe of what a great mother she is and how extremely hard she works. She has to deal with stuff that I would never know how to deal with on my own. Then there is Lisa, who I have known a lot longer. Lisa took care of Alexa for me since Alexa was very young. I always knew how strong and independent she was. I am so happy that Lisa has had such a huge influence on Alexa's life, what a great example! Lisa always finds a way to make things happen. She never sits back and always has a plan. I watch her work two jobs and raise 3 amazing children and own her own home. Her children, unknowingly still, are so blessed. That she finds ways to afford to always take them on the special trips that will define their childhood memories and be a great role model.
I'm speaking for Lisa and Sue here, but life hasn't gone exactly as planned for either of them, yet they are stunning examples of strength and positive action and certainly show me how to be better.
The official definition of a Tough Warrior Princess is a strong female personality, determined in the pursuit of her goals and often eager to do take on a typical 'man's work' like fighting wars or performing manual labor to accomplish those goals -- when of a royal backround, a woman warrior may be called a warrior princess.
I want part of the mission of the Tough Warrior Princesses to be to show women who are in tough situations that they can rise above. You can sit back and have the pity party and let life swallow you or you can decide to be the change by making it happen. Sometimes simply taking the focus off of yourself is the beginning of true change.
Sherri and I went to our oncology appointments together recently at Dana Farber. We have the same oncologist and coincidentally had appointments the same day. We were talking with our oncologist about the fact that New Balance had done the video and how we had recently set up the Tough Warrior Princesses as an organization and would be filing for non-profit status. This gives us room to direct funds we raise in other directions, besides just our Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure walks. Our oncologist told us stories of the needs of women she sees every single day. She sees a lot of younger women who are either single or divorced with small support systems. Every day that they come in for treatment is a day out of work with no pay - which cannot be afforded. These younger women have trouble finding rides to treatment, as their circle of friends typically all are working as well and also cannot afford to take a day out. I remember how lucky I felt that I had not only a HUGE support system, but the luxury of taking time out of work and two layers of disability policies from which to draw. And, still, how hard it was to stay strong and face each of the steps of treatment and unknown outcomes. I surrounded myself with people who certainly let me have my down moments and pity parties, but each and every time they pulled me up by an example of strength and wisdom. (Call Cheryl if you want to know what an Un-Tough Warrior I was at moments of my journey)
I want to help women who don't have the support systems, who don't have the luxury of disability or the luxury of friends waiting in line to take them to chemo. Who have to deal with getting children to and from school or day care, when they can't. I'm sure some of these women have never had examples of what a Tough woman can do when she sets her mind to it and never had the luxury of being a princess.
I wish I could describe to you (I'm sure I will in another post) each of the women and my wonderful token male brother we have on the Tough Warrior Princess team this year. We are truly defining Tough Warrior Princess. Each person brings a whole new dimension to our team and I know that as a group we have the power to make a HUGE difference.
Lastly - but certainly not least -- please mark your calendars - Saturday, May 14th for the 2nd Annual Dance Like A Princess Silent Auction!!! Plans are well under way and tickets will soon be available for purchase directly from our website. It will be held from 7-12 in Amesbury at the Holy Family Parish Hall.
Thank you so much for your support!
Blessings!
Patty
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
2 Years - Cancer Free! Celebrating Life!
It's amazing what can change in two years. Two years ago today, February 9th, I was in major surgery and facing the fight of my life. Knowing that once I was healed from the surgery, the chemo and a year of Herceptin treatments would begin. All that and Katie had also just been diagnosed with Juvenile diabetes. What a scary feeling and completely dark days those were. However, whenever we go through any tough times in our lives, that's when we first find inner strength and whatever we are lacking in inner strength and wisdom --- well, that's where our friends and family pick up the slack.
After this experience, I do believe that in our darkest times, we truly begin to learn how blessed we really are. You start to think of all the things you took for granted before and vow never, ever to take anything for granted again. One day everything is fine, yet you are stressed about some meaningless things and the next day you wish you could just go back to the absolute perfection of yesterday. It is a complete change of perspective in a major way.
I have read a couple of things lately that have made me sad, but also reflective. It's about the happy face survivors put on and the flowery world within which some live, when instead of spreading such a message, the reality is that cancer sucks. The articles basically said it is all a world of pretend and survivors needing to escape reality. I first took offense to that and then I started to think about why so many survivors do seem to be truly happier and feel more blessed than they were before. There is certainly truth to the fact that as survivors, we do need to escape reality. We can't live our lives looking at statistics and thinking about what might happen. But in my experience, I am truly happier and realize my blessings more than I ever did before. I have stopped worrying about a lot of the meaningless stuff I used to worry about, I thank God for my life each and every day, I feel much more connected to my friends and family and am much more willing to reach out of my circle and help someone else. I feel others pain and struggles so much more deeply now. I am much more open to live and experience life and take risks and challenges that I would not have taken before.
After feeling the love of my friends and family that truly have held my hand, washed my hair, watched me lose my hair, counseled, consoled, put up with rages and tears and just been there every step of the way, I will never, ever be the same. How can one not feel blessed? How can one not be ready to give back? Flowery? maybe.... but I feel like the moment I forget this experience or let it dull in my mind, that I could go back to being insensitive, stresssed and simply not aware and lacking the Hope that I now have.
I am two years cancer free and one year out of treatments!!! How can I not be filled with happiness and be forever grateful. I'm here. And since I am here - well, I am going to make a difference. Sunshine? Sure!!! Bring it on!!!
TEAM Update: Tough Warrior Princesses now have 24 team members ready to raise $2,300 each and walk 3 Days and 60 Miles. We had a team meeting the other night and what a great group of strong, motivated women. Planning is underway for a number of fundraisers, including our dance and silent auction that will hopefully be held May 14th. (We just need to confirm a venue) I was blessed enough to be able to volunteer at a Komen Get Started Meeting in Beverly and what a great experience. Many of the new Princesses came to this meeting and they were just awesome. I am truly surrounded by a team of women that are strong, faithful, loving, kind and READY to KICK SOME CANCER BUTT!!!
No one should have to go through what me and my family have been through. No one should have to go through what so many of my friends and acquaintances fighting this disease are going through. The realilty is that this disease, whether breast, prostate, lung, ovarian, pancreatic on and on and on is dreadful. It takes lives and ruins lives. We all need to take a stand and try to stop it.
Be MORE and Count your Blessings!!
After this experience, I do believe that in our darkest times, we truly begin to learn how blessed we really are. You start to think of all the things you took for granted before and vow never, ever to take anything for granted again. One day everything is fine, yet you are stressed about some meaningless things and the next day you wish you could just go back to the absolute perfection of yesterday. It is a complete change of perspective in a major way.
I have read a couple of things lately that have made me sad, but also reflective. It's about the happy face survivors put on and the flowery world within which some live, when instead of spreading such a message, the reality is that cancer sucks. The articles basically said it is all a world of pretend and survivors needing to escape reality. I first took offense to that and then I started to think about why so many survivors do seem to be truly happier and feel more blessed than they were before. There is certainly truth to the fact that as survivors, we do need to escape reality. We can't live our lives looking at statistics and thinking about what might happen. But in my experience, I am truly happier and realize my blessings more than I ever did before. I have stopped worrying about a lot of the meaningless stuff I used to worry about, I thank God for my life each and every day, I feel much more connected to my friends and family and am much more willing to reach out of my circle and help someone else. I feel others pain and struggles so much more deeply now. I am much more open to live and experience life and take risks and challenges that I would not have taken before.
After feeling the love of my friends and family that truly have held my hand, washed my hair, watched me lose my hair, counseled, consoled, put up with rages and tears and just been there every step of the way, I will never, ever be the same. How can one not feel blessed? How can one not be ready to give back? Flowery? maybe.... but I feel like the moment I forget this experience or let it dull in my mind, that I could go back to being insensitive, stresssed and simply not aware and lacking the Hope that I now have.
I am two years cancer free and one year out of treatments!!! How can I not be filled with happiness and be forever grateful. I'm here. And since I am here - well, I am going to make a difference. Sunshine? Sure!!! Bring it on!!!
TEAM Update: Tough Warrior Princesses now have 24 team members ready to raise $2,300 each and walk 3 Days and 60 Miles. We had a team meeting the other night and what a great group of strong, motivated women. Planning is underway for a number of fundraisers, including our dance and silent auction that will hopefully be held May 14th. (We just need to confirm a venue) I was blessed enough to be able to volunteer at a Komen Get Started Meeting in Beverly and what a great experience. Many of the new Princesses came to this meeting and they were just awesome. I am truly surrounded by a team of women that are strong, faithful, loving, kind and READY to KICK SOME CANCER BUTT!!!
No one should have to go through what me and my family have been through. No one should have to go through what so many of my friends and acquaintances fighting this disease are going through. The realilty is that this disease, whether breast, prostate, lung, ovarian, pancreatic on and on and on is dreadful. It takes lives and ruins lives. We all need to take a stand and try to stop it.
Be MORE and Count your Blessings!!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
A New Year, A New You!
A New year.... it feels like a blank slate. It feels good, yet uncomfortable in some ways. I am proud of what I accomplished in 2010 and although it was not an easy year by any means, I feel good about the person I have come to be.
I have never really set New Year's resolutions before and I'm not sure I want to call my 2011 thoughts resolutions, but I guess if I don't I'm not commited to them and the list is long. Most of my resolutions are around just being a better person and paying it forward. I want to live more in the moment and have faith that everything is for a reason. I want to challenge myself with new things.
Last year I kept a log of my walking, running and general exercise. I tracked hours and miles. It was fun and challenging to be sure there weren't to many days that went by where I did nothing. It really helped keep me motivated the entire year - which is definitely a first! This year I have also created a log and simply want to surpass what I did in 2010. I have read so many articles about exercise and the evidence showing that it lowers your chance of a recurrence for breast cancer. I want to be sure I am always doing everything in my power to prevent this disease from ever returning to my body. I'm building my armour - by diet and exercise and thoughts.... and also by doing what my doctor tells me and taking the med they tell me to take.
I am so looking forward to this year's 3 Day walk. We have 18 Princesses officially signed up and a few more that have committed, but just not signed up yet. It is AWESOME!!! These women are beyond fantastic. It is a great group with a lot of heart and spirit and we are ready to take on the world. We are looking for effective ways to fundraise - as that is the important piece of this whole thing. It is difficult hitting family and friends - especially year after year. I am hoping to find ways to get businesses involved in our cause and find a win-win scenario. I have been blessed already by the support of many businesses for my 2011 walk and am so thankful. Any ideas and thoughts that anyone has would be so welcomed!! We also have a few people that have volunteered their time and talents to help our fundraising efforts. They don't want to walk, but want to be involved in the cause and we are so grateful. Our first task is to find a hall to hold our May 2011 Silent Auction and Dance. I think we have outgrown the Lafayette Club, unfortunately. They were so kind to donate the hall to us, it made for an effective fundraiser.
My teammate Sherri Ziomek and I will both be involved in a few of the Get Started meetings for Komen. If you are thinking of doing the walk this year, attending one of these meetings is a great way to learn about the event and what is involved if you decide to sign up. If you would like more information, please let me know. The meetings are in January and February.
What are your resolutions this year? Take a step and be more than you thought you could ever be and then take a moment to Pay it Forward.
Wishing you well in 2011!!!
Blessings!
Patty
I have never really set New Year's resolutions before and I'm not sure I want to call my 2011 thoughts resolutions, but I guess if I don't I'm not commited to them and the list is long. Most of my resolutions are around just being a better person and paying it forward. I want to live more in the moment and have faith that everything is for a reason. I want to challenge myself with new things.
Last year I kept a log of my walking, running and general exercise. I tracked hours and miles. It was fun and challenging to be sure there weren't to many days that went by where I did nothing. It really helped keep me motivated the entire year - which is definitely a first! This year I have also created a log and simply want to surpass what I did in 2010. I have read so many articles about exercise and the evidence showing that it lowers your chance of a recurrence for breast cancer. I want to be sure I am always doing everything in my power to prevent this disease from ever returning to my body. I'm building my armour - by diet and exercise and thoughts.... and also by doing what my doctor tells me and taking the med they tell me to take.
I am so looking forward to this year's 3 Day walk. We have 18 Princesses officially signed up and a few more that have committed, but just not signed up yet. It is AWESOME!!! These women are beyond fantastic. It is a great group with a lot of heart and spirit and we are ready to take on the world. We are looking for effective ways to fundraise - as that is the important piece of this whole thing. It is difficult hitting family and friends - especially year after year. I am hoping to find ways to get businesses involved in our cause and find a win-win scenario. I have been blessed already by the support of many businesses for my 2011 walk and am so thankful. Any ideas and thoughts that anyone has would be so welcomed!! We also have a few people that have volunteered their time and talents to help our fundraising efforts. They don't want to walk, but want to be involved in the cause and we are so grateful. Our first task is to find a hall to hold our May 2011 Silent Auction and Dance. I think we have outgrown the Lafayette Club, unfortunately. They were so kind to donate the hall to us, it made for an effective fundraiser.
My teammate Sherri Ziomek and I will both be involved in a few of the Get Started meetings for Komen. If you are thinking of doing the walk this year, attending one of these meetings is a great way to learn about the event and what is involved if you decide to sign up. If you would like more information, please let me know. The meetings are in January and February.
What are your resolutions this year? Take a step and be more than you thought you could ever be and then take a moment to Pay it Forward.
Wishing you well in 2011!!!
Blessings!
Patty
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