Another Loss

Yesterday I learned the sad news that my friend Adriana lost her battle with cervical cancer.  Adriana and I were friends back in high school.  We lost touch over the years, as many of us do.  Thanks to modern technology we started chatting online this past year.  We shared many things, talked about life, talked about our dreams... She was working on writing a book about cancer.  I was dreaming of starting my own business.  Every time we talked she encouraged me to just DO IT!  Just take the leap and start your own business!  Then I came up with the idea to design a bracelet in her honor, and sell it to raise money to help her with her medical bills.  I rushed to make as many as possible and to set up a website where I could sell them.  It really kicked me into high gear because I wanted to start the fundraiser as soon as possible.  Unfortunately I was not very successful.  I didn't sell very many bracelets, I had no idea how to market them, and knew nothing about business.  When the fundraiser was over, I gave her a pitifully small check, but I knew I had done the best I could.

"Adriana Hope Bracelet" from the fundraiser.

I became inspired to do other fundraisers, and signed on to do one for Gabby Vogel, and have signed on for another one which I am currently preparing for.  I may not know exactly what I am doing, or how to successfully run a business.  I haven't made any money by running my business, as I have barely made enough to offset the cost of running the business and materials, as well as the donations and care packages I make.  What I do have, is a big heart, and a lot of inspiration.  If it weren't for Adriana I probably would still be sitting on my couch dreaming about having a business instead of actually having one.  Thank you, Adriana, for the many inspiring words you've said to me over the past year.  I can't believe you are gone.  I wish I had talked to you more often when I had the chance.
I hope you are at peace now, and in no more pain.  You will be missed!

Get Well Gabby!

Gabby

Our fundraiser for the Vogel family was a success!  We were able to send the family a check for $125.00.  Thank you to everyone who bought a bracelet or scarf, or helped us to spread the word about the fundraiser! We look forward to our next fundraiser, which will be coming soon!

The "Always In My Heart" bracelet from Gabby's fundraiser.

Jessica Joy Rees

Today the world lost a truly amazing and inspiring person.  Jessica Joy Rees was diagnosed with brain cancer last year.  Since her diagnosis, she has been dedicating herself to spreading joy to other kids who are also fighting cancer.  Jessica was the creator of JOY JARS which are special jars that are stuffed with goodies and passed out to sick kids.  She also was the inspiration for the NEGU foundation (NEGU stands for Never Ever Give UP), which raises money for research, and provides support for children undergoing cancer, and their families. 

I asked Jessica a few times  what her favorite colors were, so I could make her a hat, but she would never tell me.  Most people would have jumped to get a "free gift".  She was more concerned with helping other people than receiving anything for herself. 

Jessica was only 12 years old, but touched more people than most of us could hope to ever touch in our entire life.  Please show your support and help to carry on Jessie's legacy by visiting www.negu.org and finding out what you can do to help!