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Friday, March 31, 2006
March Mini Update
I've been so busy this month that I almost forgot to post a monthly
update! I didn't get a new project designed in time to add a pattern, but
I do have a couple of updates.
Breast Cancer Charity Updates
My cousin, Emily Druchunas, is participating in the AVON Walk For Breast Cancer this October in New York City. Her mom had breast cancer and has been cancer-free for six years. Emily sent this email to me:
Hello friends and family!
I've recently been approached by a friend of mine with the brilliant idea of participating in the AVON Walk For Breast Cancer. As many of you may know my life was affected by breast cancer when my mom was diagnosed with it six years ago. Many of us know someone who has struggled with breast cancer, and the toll it took on their lives or someone close to them.
As it stands, I have registered myself as an AVON walker, but to participate in the 39.3 mile marathon I need to raise $1,800 by October of this year. I know it's a hefty sum, and that all of our pocketbooks are lighter these days, but if we could all pitch in a little then maybe we'll end up with a big ol' bundle. Every dime will get us another step closer to a cure (no pun intended...okay, well I am my fathers daughter too)! If I fail to make the goal of $1,800, whatever money we have raised will still go to Avon's cancer research, however I will not be able to join in the two day marathon in NYC. I'm hoping I'll be there with my running shoes on on October 7th and 8th, but I will need everyone's help.
I've never attempted anything like this before, and you all know me...I would never ask for help if it wasn't desperately needed or for something I care very deeply about. Please help me to help others.
If you know of anyone that would be interested in helping me achieve my goal would you please forward them this e-mail. You can visit my personal page that I have set up for myself. There you will be able to track my progress, read my reasons for participating and make a donation if you so choose. I'll keep it updated as often as possible with new information and pictures of me and my cohorts in training. Please don't be shy, pop in for a visit!
Thanks so much for your time and support.
I'd be thrilled if some Knitting for Change readers would contribute to help Emily reach her goal.
Knitty's Breast Cancer Awareness Mini-Issue. I didn't have time to get a new project finished for this month, but I found this fantastic Knitty mini-issue to support breast cancer awareness. The issue is a special PDF pattern booklet that you can download and print. It includes these patterns:
Stitch to WIN Against Breast Cancer (TNNA)
In 2004 at Mall of America in Minneapolis, MN, the National NeedleArts Association (TNNA) launched their program " Stitch to WIN Against Breast Cancer." Since then over 70 retailers have had events in their own communities. TNNA's charitable partner Living Beyond Breast Cancer is a Philadelphia based, national organization offering direct support, information, and education for breast cancer survivors and their families.
Last month, TNNA had a booth at the 6th Annual Conference for Young Women Affected by Breast Cancer in Denver, CO where over 650 women— breast cancer survivors, supporters and health professionals — came together in Denver CO to learn valuable information, gather support and share their incredible spirit.
From TNNA's press release:
TNNA shared the benefits and joy of needlearts with these courageous women, as well. Throughout the weekend, the Stitch to WIN Against Breast Cancer booth was surrounded by these new stitchers as they enjoyed learning to knit, crochet, needlepoint and cross stitch during their breaks from the scheduled programming. A few only needed a refresher course as they had learned to stitch as children at their grandmothers’ knees. Most always wanted to know how but had never had the opportunity. Each of them walked away with a smile and a new-found passion for the needlearts.
Many women stopped by the booth just to share their stories about how stitching helped them get through some very difficult times. They talked about the emotional, spiritual and therapeutic benefits of the needlearts – how their knitting or needlepoint kept their fingers nimble and their spirits up during the long hours of treatment.
Local retailers Carole Jacobs of Ewenique Yarns and Denise Seale and twin sister Danielle of Cherry Tree Needlepoint came and brought along volunteers from their shops to help support the event. Joined by Pam Aman, an independent Yarn Sales Rep based in Denver, these TNNA members and customers shared their time and needlearts talents with what seemed to be a never-ending stream of enthusiastic new stitchers. “I’m amazed by the energy and vitality of these courageous young women,” commented Carole. “ . . . and they’re taking to stitching with a real excitement and determination!”
Sherry Mulne, marketing consultant for TNNA, says, "I can't even begin to express the spirit of these events. I saw women crying (happy tears) about their newfound passion for the needlearts. I've been embraced by women and told how much we've enriched their lives. And I've heard amazing stories about how the needlearts have helped both patients and supporters get through terrible times."
The info on their website is a little out of date, but the program is going strong and there are more plans for events in 2006. Ask your LYS owner if they are a member of TNNA and find out if you can help bring a Stitch to WIN Against Breast Cancer event to your area.