Ascending: rising or increasing to higher levels, values, or degrees
Butterflies: The change from caterpillar though to the chrysalis and emergence as a butterfly is the greatest change in the animal world. It symbolises significant change in the course of one’s life, personality or way of thinking.
Putting them together brings us on an upwards journey of change and transformation, isn't that what we all strive for?
Although I am not a parent I am a long time member of The Moms Network and in October 2012 they hosted an event for Breast Cancer Awareness where Martini Rossi gave $10,000 to actress/singer Kristen Chenoweth's Foundation Maddie's Corner, to be allocated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Right Action for Women. You can see my coverage of the first event HERE.
Things came full circle when they hosted the event again, this time hosted by Ford at The Carlyle Hotel in New York City, where current Cancer Warriors including this time Denise Albert, co-founder of The Moms Network, who is herself now battling Breast Cancer.
Instead of just describing events I thought I would share the video taken at the event instead:
This also saves me days of trying to edit, optimize and watermark my own photos which feels like hours of hell considering the FLU has knocked me on my butt for the past two weeks! So thank goodness for venue photographers right? You can see The MOMS coverage with more photos from the #MoreGoodDays Mamarazzi event HERE.
Here are a select few of my own photos that sum up the range of emotions:
Now I've got a ton of 'ugly cry' photos that I will spare you of, the video is enough to give you the feels, but if you really want to see those let me know and I will try to make a pinterest board for this event when my fever goes somewhere below boiling.
MY TAKE:
I think the one thing readers appreciate about me is my 'good, bad and ugly' approach to everything, when it comes to the truth you will definitely find it here!
As even handed as possible, here is my rundown and personal feelings:
GOOD: You already know my mom is a Survivor which is why I attended the first event with her, and you know what I have been going through personally when it comes to Cancer (although my cancer color would be teal not pink for what I went through which I actually didn't know until very recently). So I take the cause seriously and brands that support it. Ford has supported Warriors In Pink for 22 years now. The courageous women who shared their cancer battles/journeys were definitely an inspiration. Denise catching her Cancer early and using the media as a platform to share her story with others is also an inspiration, and I am glad she is courageously sharing her story.
BAD: Sorry but there were things I can't exactly gloss over. While the Carlyle is certainly a prestigious venue, it was a very small room for the amount of people, and when folks butts are rubbing across your back for an hour it felt a bit more confining than it did 'intimate'. I think the first venue, while also intimate, gave a bit more breathing room.
UGLY: And my last but not least sorry not sorry is that I usually feature the gift bags when I attend an event, and on the outside they were lovely but the contents were all a size small. I did reach out to the PR firm and ask to swap the items but they refused to do so. UM, color me confused, but wouldn't you want two cancer survivors wearing the clothes in their own size and talking about "More Good Days"? We were happy to send the items back to exchange them. But that was a no go. I also wish Kristen Chenoweth's new CD had been in there. The PR firm was lovely enough to tell me where I could buy all of them. (As if I didn't know. ahem. let's just leave that there.)
Besides this specific event, here are my feelings when October rolls around as a Cancer Warrior Myself:
I take on very few Editorials during October for Breast Cancer Awareness, everyone slaps something pink on their site and then think when they reach out to survivors that we are required to give them a free product placement. Warriors have bills people and we can't pay our mortgages, car note or buy food with a picture of your pink product.
Sorry Not Sorry, but the legit reporter in me has questions the moment your emails hit my inbox:
How much of the proceeds are being donated to the cause?
What do you do throughout the year, not just October?
And of course who gets labeled the "B" of Blogging"? Me! Maybe I should change my blog's name (or is that name already taken?), I was considering a re-branding anyway. Sorry darlings while I like Wool during these long, cold North East Winters, I certainly don't like Wool over my eyes.
Now back to the event, I loved hearing other survivor's share their journey, there is a vein of similarity in so many stories, humor and music is what got so many people through their battles and chemo/radiation, and I loved that this event combined both, yes there were moments with 'the feels', and 'ugly tears' (thug tears folks!) too, but being given one more good day really is a gift.
And the reminder that having a 'bad day', and having one more 'good day' really isn't the same thing, put your perceived problems into perspective and on this Motivation Monday let's take a moment to send Good Vibes to both MEN and WOMEN everywhere battling Cancer and hoping for One More Good Day.
Giveaway Alert:
Ford Warriors in Pink is giving away a FORD FUSION, so don't forget to take a moment to ENTER. And Ford Warriors in Pink Gear that Gives can be purchased HERE.
FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Compensated Post, (while perhaps it should be), all thoughts and opinions are my own.I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her hermit hive: Electronics, Jewelry, Appliances, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys. If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly probably won't want to play. Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.
I have personally witnessed the horror of breast cancer. A family friend found out too late that she had cancer, and in the end, it killed her. I'm always so glad to see awareness being raised.
@Kristi - It's an important cause and as a survivor and having attended the first event, I appreciated the continuity of it. The bag really wasn't the issue, it was the lack of responsiveness on the PR Agency's part that left a bad taste in my mouth. And unfortunately that now extends to Ford, brands really need to be vigilant with how they are being repped. Ford supposedly prides itself on it's customer service, sad that their PR firm doesn't get that.
My grandma had breast cancer so I'm hyper aware. I agree with you that I would want to know where to money goes though. Its important to do it through out the year.
@Dina {{{HUGS}}} I am so sorry for your loss. I agree that it is important to be sure causes are getting supported year round, with some initiatives it comes across as jumping on a fad more than really helping the cause and that is super frustrating.
Sounds like a great event though curious they wouldn't exchange the goodie bag stuff. At any rate, best wish for continued health and wellness to your mom!
@Meagan I am so sorry to know you have a friend who is a current warrior. Ford Warrior in Pink products are definitely thoughtful for those undergoing chemo/radiation as well as programs like fresh chef or you bringing over a meal or two so your friend won't have to worry about cooking on days where she is feeling worn out and sick from the treatments.
Great post! I don't think there is anybody out there who has not been affected by having someone they love get breast cancer. Kuddos to you for raising awareness and sharing your story. Well wishes to your mom.
My grandma unfortunately was not a survivor, but I am glad that Ford has been a part of the Warriors in Pink for all of these years. Sorry the gift bags weren't up to your standard. It really is a bummer when they can't accommodate all of the attendees properly then expect a glowing review.
@Theresa - I actually am answering you first, I try to answer in order, but first I am so sorry for your loss. My great-grandma lost her battle with Brain Cancer, I very much empathize.
I am so sorry that I gave you that impression. It was not that the bags weren't up to my standards, I actually would have preferred that they donate the bags directly to an oncology unit and not had any for us, I would have loved that because I have been through it. It was the complete lack of willingness to even consider swapping out sizes when I made it very clear that I did NOT try anything on so they didn't have to worry about that. As a survivor and my guest being one also, who better to wear the warriors in pink logo? We would have worn it with pride. This is the prime example of a brand having the opportunity to acquire 'earned media' and not using it to the fullest. It's not what you give, it's HOW you give it. As a survivor and an Editor it made me wonder, if I had purchased a complete bag for a warrior in progress and that bag was not complete or something was the wrong size, would they have been as un-responsive to that to? Makes me wonder.
One of the things I love about Blogging is that brands are starting to get it a bit more, no one really expects a *glowing* review, I think honesty is always best and I do believe brands also want us to be true to ourselves. and a perfect gift bag wouldn't have changed other factors. This event did not resonate as strongly as the first one did for me. But that is all personal perspective. I hope I did bring awareness to the program respectfully while still being true to how being there made me feel.
Breast cancer is a terrible disease to have and it's good to help raise awareness. This sounds like a lovely event and one that helps empower women who are currently fighting breast cancer.
That sounds like a great event. I don't personally know anyone that has gone through breast cancer, but I can only imagine. I'm sure glad they have the whole month dedicated to this.
I am so surprised that they did not have different sizes available for the shirts. It sounds like it was a good event. I would have not liked the small space.
Breast Cancer is such a scary thing for anyone to face. I love that there are so many different fundraisers donating to research, as well as an awareness that's spread around.
One of the nicest gift bags I ever got at an event was that way because the people in charge of early registration had a space to put sizes, colors, and such for each person. It's disappointing to go to an event meant to honor people and bring recognition and find hard-nosed people who aren't willing to consider that someone goofed up on the organization. Cancer affects so many people! Your suggestion for donating the bags to an oncology unit is very kind and perhaps will be picked up by the suppliers.
@Lori - By any chance is the event you are referring to a Fitness Magazine Event? They really put together amaze balls events! It is still one of my favorite events to date actually. I really would love to see it done that way next year, although I'm sure that is NOT going to make me popular with other bloggers! LOL
What a great event for a good cause. A girl I know that is my age is a recent breast cancer survivor and we are all proud of her positive attitude throughout her entire journey.
Like too many families, mine has been affected by breast cancer. I appreciate the focus on women's health, especially during this special month. I also appreciate your continued honesty.
I know the swag bag isnt useful to you but maybe give the stuff to someone who can use it and brighten their day a little bit :) I like events that focus on helping others
I didn't think it was possible to love Kristen Chenoweth anymore, but I do! Breast Cancer is a HUGE deal and I love that she is helping raise awareness.
I'm always hesitant in donating to charities or research foundations because most of the money goes into the pockets of the ceo's. I like your hobest approach with the whole venue and its a shame they did not offer to exchange for your size. Shame on them!
@Jenny It doesn't hurt to be careful and research when it comes to charitable solicitations. Honestly if they were going to do things that way I wish they had just donated all the bags to an oncology unit, and the nurses there would have matched the right patient to the right size.
What a great event. Kristen Chenoweth is just the cutest. I have seen so many different forms and stages of cancer in my lifetime. Some have healed while so many others lost their battles.
disease of any kind is horrible, I'm glad you took the time to go with your mom to this event, it most likely meant the world to her... great post for building awareness/ spreading the word!
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I have personally witnessed the horror of breast cancer. A family friend found out too late that she had cancer, and in the end, it killed her. I'm always so glad to see awareness being raised.
ReplyDeleteBen - I am so sorry that your friend lost her battle! Sending Hugs and Postive Vibes your way!
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Looks like a great event... well almost...aside from the bag of sort of not-usable items. Bummer on that part.
ReplyDelete@Kristi - It's an important cause and as a survivor and having attended the first event, I appreciated the continuity of it. The bag really wasn't the issue, it was the lack of responsiveness on the PR Agency's part that left a bad taste in my mouth. And unfortunately that now extends to Ford, brands really need to be vigilant with how they are being repped. Ford supposedly prides itself on it's customer service, sad that their PR firm doesn't get that.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
My grandma had breast cancer so I'm hyper aware. I agree with you that I would want to know where to money goes though. Its important to do it through out the year.
ReplyDelete@Dina {{{HUGS}}} I am so sorry for your loss. I agree that it is important to be sure causes are getting supported year round, with some initiatives it comes across as jumping on a fad more than really helping the cause and that is super frustrating.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
It looks like it was a successful event. It is so great to see events like this happening to help bring awareness and support.
ReplyDelete@Catherine I am definitely about helping anyone battling Cancer, it's a very rough road!
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Breast cancer awareness is so important. It looks like a great event, it's wonderful to have the support of women like Kristen Chenowith!
ReplyDelete@Debra Kristen Chenoweth is a great supporter and it was wonderful getting to hear her sing! I wish I had half her energy!
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
That looks like such a great event. I love that there are events like this to help raise awareness.
ReplyDelete@OUACG - Me too! :)
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Sounds like a great event though curious they wouldn't exchange the goodie bag stuff. At any rate, best wish for continued health and wellness to your mom!
ReplyDeleteThanks Vicky!
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
This looks like a great event. I have a friend walking this road right now.
ReplyDelete@Meagan I am so sorry to know you have a friend who is a current warrior. Ford Warrior in Pink products are definitely thoughtful for those undergoing chemo/radiation as well as programs like fresh chef or you bringing over a meal or two so your friend won't have to worry about cooking on days where she is feeling worn out and sick from the treatments.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Great post! I don't think there is anybody out there who has not been affected by having someone they love get breast cancer. Kuddos to you for raising awareness and sharing your story. Well wishes to your mom.
ReplyDeleteThanks Nancy!
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Sorry about the small venue and the goody bag issue. I do like that they held this event to raise awareness. My aunt had breast cancer.
ReplyDelete@Pam Sorry to hear about your Aunt! :(
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Sounds like a great event to raise awareness. I love how you mentioned the good, bad and ugly aspects. I love your blog!
ReplyDelete@theamazingjenni - Likewise Jenni! :)
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
My grandma unfortunately was not a survivor, but I am glad that Ford has been a part of the Warriors in Pink for all of these years. Sorry the gift bags weren't up to your standard. It really is a bummer when they can't accommodate all of the attendees properly then expect a glowing review.
ReplyDelete@Theresa - I actually am answering you first, I try to answer in order, but first I am so sorry for your loss. My great-grandma lost her battle with Brain Cancer, I very much empathize.
DeleteI am so sorry that I gave you that impression. It was not that the bags weren't up to my standards, I actually would have preferred that they donate the bags directly to an oncology unit and not had any for us, I would have loved that because I have been through it. It was the complete lack of willingness to even consider swapping out sizes when I made it very clear that I did NOT try anything on so they didn't have to worry about that. As a survivor and my guest being one also, who better to wear the warriors in pink logo? We would have worn it with pride. This is the prime example of a brand having the opportunity to acquire 'earned media' and not using it to the fullest. It's not what you give, it's HOW you give it. As a survivor and an Editor it made me wonder, if I had purchased a complete bag for a warrior in progress and that bag was not complete or something was the wrong size, would they have been as un-responsive to that to? Makes me wonder.
One of the things I love about Blogging is that brands are starting to get it a bit more, no one really expects a *glowing* review, I think honesty is always best and I do believe brands also want us to be true to ourselves. and a perfect gift bag wouldn't have changed other factors. This event did not resonate as strongly as the first one did for me. But that is all personal perspective. I hope I did bring awareness to the program respectfully while still being true to how being there made me feel.
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My mom is a survivor too! Yay for breast cancer survivors. I appreciate companies who give back all throughout the year as well.
ReplyDelete@Liz High Five to your mom! Warriors kick a$$ :-)
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
I'm glad that there are people whose have faith raising breast cancer awareness.
ReplyDelete@Nicole - Faith and a sense of humor are definitely the keys to getting through anything, Cancer especially
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Breast cancer is a terrible disease to have and it's good to help raise awareness. This sounds like a lovely event and one that helps empower women who are currently fighting breast cancer.
ReplyDelete@Amanda I am all about empowering anyone going thgough this journey.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
That sounds like a great event. I don't personally know anyone that has gone through breast cancer, but I can only imagine. I'm sure glad they have the whole month dedicated to this.
ReplyDelete@Kathy :)
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
I am so surprised that they did not have different sizes available for the shirts. It sounds like it was a good event. I would have not liked the small space.
ReplyDelete@Ann - I am not a fan of confined/small spaces either.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
How wonderful that they do this. I'm sorry to hear you had the flu!
ReplyDelete@mail4rosey Anything that helps the cause is a good thing. The flu definitely hit me hard and the winter isn't even here yet!
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
YES to being a survivor and yes to being a powerful woman who is not afraid to speak the truth- I LOVE THIS POST!!!!!
ReplyDelete@Melissa - Warrior, Survivor and Outspoken - I think that is the mantra of most NYC women! :)
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
My mother in law had breast cancer two years ago. It was scary for her.
ReplyDeleteI love that women are interested in raising money to find a cure. So many people have lost their lives.
@Christy - Is your MIL doing well now?
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Breast Cancer is such a scary thing for anyone to face. I love that there are so many different fundraisers donating to research, as well as an awareness that's spread around.
ReplyDelete@The Mommy Files - I am definitely an advocate for helping to battle ALL cancers and spreading awareness any way I can.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
One of the nicest gift bags I ever got at an event was that way because the people in charge of early registration had a space to put sizes, colors, and such for each person. It's disappointing to go to an event meant to honor people and bring recognition and find hard-nosed people who aren't willing to consider that someone goofed up on the organization. Cancer affects so many people! Your suggestion for donating the bags to an oncology unit is very kind and perhaps will be picked up by the suppliers.
ReplyDelete@Lori - By any chance is the event you are referring to a Fitness Magazine Event? They really put together amaze balls events! It is still one of my favorite events to date actually. I really would love to see it done that way next year, although I'm sure that is NOT going to make me popular with other bloggers! LOL
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
What a great event for a good cause. A girl I know that is my age is a recent breast cancer survivor and we are all proud of her positive attitude throughout her entire journey.
ReplyDelete@Lisa - The saying about Cancer does not discriminate is very true, it doesn't care about age, sex or race!
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Sounds like a great event and happy to hear your mom is a survivor. I love that you are honest and name the good and the bad about things.
ReplyDelete@WeMake7 - Sadly my 'honesty' doesn't always win me friends...
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Breast cancer is such a scary thing for any family to go through. This is a great cause to spread awareness.
ReplyDelete@Christina - Cancer definitely devastates families. :(
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Like too many families, mine has been affected by breast cancer. I appreciate the focus on women's health, especially during this special month. I also appreciate your continued honesty.
ReplyDelete@Melanie I am so sorry that Breast Cancer has affected your family. {{{HUGS}}}
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Kristen Chenoweth is a doll. I love her. The event sounds lovely even though there were some not so good parts.
ReplyDelete@Krystal Isn't she awesome? She is super approachable and a bundle of energy! I wish I had half of her energy.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
That really stinks that they didn't have a diversity of sizes for everyone. Hardly anyone is a size small anymore! haha
ReplyDelete@S. Meredith - Right? I was probably born a size Medium! LOL
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
Breast cancer is such a serious and scary issue women are facing. What a great event rasing awareness and money to find cure.
ReplyDelete@Chubskulit Rose - Cancer is very scary and it is important to raise awareness and funding so we have more survivors and victorious warriors!
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
I know the swag bag isnt useful to you but maybe give the stuff to someone who can use it and brighten their day a little bit :) I like events that focus on helping others
ReplyDelete@MidgetMomma - I love events that focus on helping others too. And yes I have forwarded the gift bag to another warrior in the struggle! :)
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
A family friend is currently battling breast cancer and it is heartbreaking. Always good to know about breast cancer awareness such as this.
ReplyDelete@Lynndee I am sorry to hear that your friend is currently battling breast cancer! Sending prayers her way.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
I didn't think it was possible to love Kristen Chenoweth anymore, but I do! Breast Cancer is a HUGE deal and I love that she is helping raise awareness.
ReplyDelete@Amber She is doing an amazing job raising awareness and helping the cause.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
I'm always hesitant in donating to charities or research foundations because most of the money goes into the pockets of the ceo's. I like your hobest approach with the whole venue and its a shame they did not offer to exchange for your size. Shame on them!
ReplyDelete@Jenny It doesn't hurt to be careful and research when it comes to charitable solicitations. Honestly if they were going to do things that way I wish they had just donated all the bags to an oncology unit, and the nurses there would have matched the right patient to the right size.
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
This is a wonderful cause to support. I love Kristen Chenoweth and would have loved to be there.
ReplyDelete@Christina - Are you based in NYC?
Delete♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
What a great event. Kristen Chenoweth is just the cutest. I have seen so many different forms and stages of cancer in my lifetime. Some have healed while so many others lost their battles.
ReplyDeletedisease of any kind is horrible, I'm glad you took the time to go with your mom to this event, it most likely meant the world to her... great post for building awareness/ spreading the word!
ReplyDelete