Reason to Believe

Dear Blogger Family & Friends,

Welcome, welcome, welcome! The Pink Crusader is back to work and greets you with a warm hug and all that is good.

"When you have come to the edge of all light that you know, and you are about to drop off into the darkness of the unknown, Faith is knowing one of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on, or you will be taught to fly"

-Patrick Overton

“If I’ve told you once, I’ve told you……” well, you know how it ends. And, while I have been on both the giving and receiving end of this stern remark, sometimes it takes a couple of tries before the truth hits home.

I have been a two-time cancer patient/survivor since 2003 and know all too well the emotional and physical peaks and valleys which one endures over time. I know the first-hand horrors of chemo hell as well as the Utopian state of remission. I have also experienced the after-shock of relapse and paddled like a drowning woman to reach the safety of dry land, just to be detained in chemo hell, yet again.

So, why after all these years of endless testing, multiple surgeries and prolonged treatments, do I continue to let my guard down? I know that my particular form of cancer is not curable. It nips at my heels like a relentless, teething puppy. No matter how fast I walk or how hard I try to stay ahead of it, eventually that puppy is going to devour me in its own time.

Again I ask, so why after all these years do I continue to let my guard down? Or even give a flying fig? Am I some sort of masochist that finds pleasure in being bald or takes delight in playing slice n’dice with my body parts? Of course not! I let my guard down for the same reason most of you do. Given a choice, I choose life. That’s it plain and simple……I choose life. I am not blind to the truth, nor looking away in denial....but more importantly, Faith prompts me to look ahead and keep on going. There's no safety net and no guarantees....yet with faith, I have a reason to believe beyond today.

Like you, I want to live so badly that I choose to overlook all the daily discomforts, mundane irritations and painful procedures in order to maintain a sense of belonging, placement and purpose. I want to stay in the game as long as I can, regardless of the odds and no matter how many times that puppy bites me in the butt. I want to walk upright and find value among the living.....not packing my bags for the last call and final destination. And, if I believe what I am writing, then it is only human that I will let my guard down on occasions and enjoy my days without living in fear of death…...or fear of becoming puppy chow.

PERSONAL NOTE:
Please keep our friend and Rosebuds II member, Susan Robertson in your prayers. She will be undergoing radiostereotic surgery on Tuesday. We extend heartfelt wishes for a full and speedy recovery to Susan and her family.

FYI:
From Cheryl Donlin : I am so excited! Pink Ribbons Project has gotten the go-ahead from KPFT for a second Open Journal show. It will air from noon to 1:00 pm on Tuesday, June 12. The topic will be Inflammatory Breast Cancer.

Our first Open Journal, the Male Breast Cancer Forum, was very well received and I want to thank everyone who listened to the show live, or who went to the KPFT website and listened to or downloaded it. I especially want to thank all those who took the time to fill out a Program Evaluation form on the KPFT website; feedback is a big factor in getting another slot on Open Journal.

So, be sure to tune in on June 12 for another great discussion, hosted by Susan Rafte, executive director of Pink Ribbons Project.

Work. Create. Grow. Give. Cheryl P. Donlin

DAILY REMINDER:
"Fund Free Mammograms"
Go to The Breast Cancer Site at http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/tpc/EEB_0115_BCSm
and help fund free mammograms for the homeless, working-poor, and un-insured women. It costs nothing to you, except one daily click on the pink "Fund Free Mammograms" button. You can even request automatic reminders via e-mail. Please make your free click now, and thanks for your continuing support! The Breast Cancer Site, One Union Square, 600 University Street, Suite 1000, Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 1-888-811-5271

UPCOMING EVENTS: Mark Your Calendars and Save the Dates!

Pink Lemonade Guild Lecture Series Luncheon
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 Noon - 1:30pm
Guest Speaker: Beth Irvine, R.N., Author, Nurse, Yoga Instructor
"Five Simple Ways to Create Balance in Everyday Life"
Ouisie's Table, 3939 San Felipe
$25 per guest RSVP by April 13, 2007
713-524-7465 or Loubel@pinkribbons.org

Y-Me.org ShareRing Network
April 18, 2007, 7:00 p.m. (CT)
Topic: “Understanding Lymphedema Treatment”
Speaker: Julia Osborne, P.T., C.M.L.D.T.
Clinic Director
Physiotherapy Associates
Oncology Rehabilitation
Denver, CO
Julia Osborne is a certified lymphedema specialist. She is Clinic Director of Oncology Rehabilitation Physiotherapy Associates in Denver , Co which is one of few facilities in the United States that exclusively treats oncology patients. She has treated oncology patients for over 5 years.

This is a free, monthly one-hour teleconference featuring a breast cancer related presentation by a medical professional followed by a question and answer session. Participants are divided into small groups for discussion, which are moderated by peer counselors. The ShareRing Network teleconferences take place on the third Wednesday of each month, beginning at 7:00 PM Central Time (CT). Questions about this program can be directed to sharering@y-me.org or 1-800-221-2141.

ROAD TO RECOVERY DRIVERS NEEDED
Lack of transportation is a major problem for thousands of cancer patients. Many patients need daily or weekly cancer treatment over the course of several months. Many patients do not have a car, are too ill to drive themselves, and/or do not have family or friends may not be able to assume the burden of frequent trips to treatment centers.

Road to Recovery uses volunteer drivers who use their own cars to transport cancer patients and a maximum of one companion to/from cancer treatment. If you have a car and some spare time, you can help someone keep a very important appointment.

•April 20, 2007 – 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. @ American Cancer Society Office, 6301 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77057 RSVP! For additional information about the Road to Recovery program, or to RSVP for one of the trainings,call Damita Hines(713)706-5649

2007 Pink Ribbon Reception
Thursday, April 26, 2007
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Junior League of Houston
1811 Briar Oaks Lane
Free to Affiliate Members
2007 Chair Claudia Brown and
Co-chairs Nicole Barnett and Anne Williams

Relay for Life of Cy Fair College
American Cancer Society Overnight Event
April 27 & 28, 2007, 7:00pm - 7:00am
www.acsevents.org/cyfair for info & registration

Breast Cancer: Its Effect on Spouses & Others
Saturday, April 28, 2007 8:30am - 1:00pm
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Cancer Prevention Bldg, 8th Floor
1155 Hermal Pressler RSVP by April 23 (713)792-8208
The Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
www.mdanderson.org/youngbreastsurvivor
Email: bsmp@mdanderson.org

Susan's Rally
Sunday, April 29
For info: 713-526-2747
www.susanrally.org

Rosebuds Meetings
Open to all Breast Cancer Patients/Survivors
1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month 5:45 - 7:30 p.m.
MAY 1 & 15 JUNE 5 & 19

The 2nd Annual Cancer Patient & Caregiver Conference
Friday, May 4, 2007. Registration:9:00am
Program begins at 9:30am-2:30pm.
Dr Michael Keating from MD Anderson will be the keynote speaker.
Location: United Way Building 50 Waugh Drive.
To Register: 713-520-9873 Contact Person: Elizabeth Wilson
www.cancercouseling.info

Relay For Life of Angelina County
American Cancer Society
May 4th & 5th, 2007
Lufkin Middle School

Relay For Life® is a fun-filled overnight event designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer in our community. At the event, we celebrate survivorship and raise money to help the American Cancer Society in its mission to save lives, help those who have been touched by cancer, and empower individuals to fight back.
http://www.acsevents.org/angelina/positivepinkdynamite

Rosebuds II Meetings
(For those who have had or are at high risk
for recurrence and/or metastasis)
2nd and 4th Thursday of each month 5:45 - 7:30 p.m.
MAY 10 & 24 JUNE 14 & 28
www.RosebudsSupport.org

Walk to Empower
3-Mile walk, Sunday, May 13, 2007
MacGregor Park, Houston, Tx 9:00am
Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization
No Fee Register online at www.y-me.org

The Alice Thomsen Lymphedema Awareness Group of Houston
Meetings are scheduled on the 3rd Tuesday of every other month at the American cancer Society Building,6301 Richmond (between Hillcroft and Fountainview) at 7:00pm. The 2007 dates are May 15th, July 17th, September 18 and November 20th.
For further information call 281-546-6438.

CanCare Survivors Day Luncheon
Date: Thursday, May 31, 2007
For More Info: patwh@cancare.org
As most of you know our Survivors Day Luncheon will be held on Thursday, May 31 at the Intercontinental Hotel. Our luncheon event is a wonderful way to honor friends, family and employees who are cancer survivors and the medical communities who treat them. Our keynote speaker is Scott Hamilton, who is considered to be the world's most celebrated figure skater. In addition to being a role model and humanitarian, Mr. Hamilton is also a ten-year testicular cancer survivor.

2007 Komen Survivor Party
August 22, at The Houstonian
Details to be announced in future posts.

"The Faces behind Breast Cancer" Launch Party
Save the date, Sunday August 26, at 1:00 pm.
Details will be announced in future posts.

Living Fully
M.D. Anderson Annual Conference
September 6-8 2007
Marriott Westchase - Houston, Texas
Additional information is not available at this time.

Tour De Pink 2007
Pink Ribbons Project
September 9, 2007
at Prairie View A&M University
www.tourdepink.org
Additional info in future posts.

2007 Breast Health Summit
"SAVE THE DATE" for the 2007 Breast Health Summit to be held on October 18, 2007 at the United Way in Houston. Please pass this information on to others who may be interested. Additional information will be sent out later by both e-mail and postal mail. And of course, if your mailing address has changed, please be sure to forward the updated information to me. I look forward to seeing you in October!
Pat Dames
The Rose-
12700 North Featherwood
Houston, TX 77034
281-464-5150
Fax 281-484-7083
pdames@the-rose.org
www.the-rose.org

"Sharing is Caring"
As always, The Pink Crusader welcomes your comments, stories, poems, and events. Posts are updated every Sunday. Please send your written contributions to thepinkcrusader1@aol.com.

This concludes our weekly edition of the Pink Crusader. See you next week!

"You block your dream when you allow your fear to grow bigger than your faith."

-Mary Manin Morrissey

Stay strong, stay well, and keep on dancing forever and a day.

Love, Josie
The Pink Crusader
thepinkcrusader1@aol.com

Bunnies, Baskets & Blue Bonnets

Dear Blogger Family & Friends,

The Pink Crusader is taking a holiday respite, and wishes you and your loved ones a very happy, blessed and joyous Easter. May your day be filled with colorful flowers, chocolate bunnies and the promise of rebirth.

See the land, her Easter keeping,
Rises as her Maker rose.
Seeds, so long in darkness sleeping,
Burst at last from winter snows.
Earth with heaven above rejoices.

-Charles Kingsley

FYI:
From Mary Rodriguez: There is a web site for post-op clothing. It is called The Greater Good Network. This site not only covers Breast Cancer, but some other causes as well. http://www.gearthatgives.com

From Donna Fong: In my opinion, this is one of the best magazines on cancer in publication. You can subscribe free of charge by going online. Hope you will take advantage of it. The March/April 2007 issue of CUREXtra is now available at http://www.curetoday.com/cureXtra/currentissue.
Tykerb Approved as Metastatic Breast Cancer Treatment
ACS Recommends MRI with Mammography in High-Risk Women
A Book Review of Flying Crooked by Jan Michael
A Film Review of Two Weeks written and directed by Steve Stockman
A Product Review of "Earth Henna" Body Painting Kit by Chemo Chicks
And an essay and poem from our readers
For these stories and a calendar of upcoming events, visit www.curetoday.com/cureXtra/currentissue.
Please send essay or poetry submissions for Readers Write to mweber@curetoday.com.

Also submitted by Donna Fong: The new issue of CancerWise is now available online at www.cancerwise.org In my opinion, this is an excellent newsletter published by MDA which includes some interesting articles and which you can subscribe to.

From Janice Duplessis: Pocket Guide on Cultural Competence
The Intercultural Cancer Council recently unveiled the latest edition of the "Pocket Guide," Cultural Competence in Cancer Care: A Health Care Professional's Passport, giving health care professionals a systematic approach for interacting with multicultural and economically disadvantaged cancer patients and their families. This 121-page guide is an expanded version of the first edition released in 2004 and highlights the influences of culture, geography, socioeconomic status and geography on the health behaviors of the rural poor and the five largest racial/ethnic groups in the U.S.: African Americans, Latinos/Hispanics, American Indians and Alaskan Natives, Asians and Asian Americans, and Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Island Populations. Of special significance, is the additional information on the Appalachia populations, providing recommendations on how to interact with patients from rural America. To improve the cultural competency of physicians and other health professionals, the guide provides a primer on the culturally appropriate behaviors and attitudes toward cancer prevention and control that differ by multicultural and socio-economic status of patients. This includes common verbal and nonverbal communications, such as shaking hands, looking the patient in the eye, how far to sit or stand from the patient and the use of touch.
The guide can be purchased for $6.00 per copy plus shipping charges by contacting 1.877.243.6642 or downloading the order form from . . . http://iccnetwork.org/news/Pocket_Guide_Order_Form.pdf

Opportunity for Students to Make a Difference: The Collegiate Cancer Council
The Collegiate Cancer Council ("CCC") is an organization housed at the national office of the Intercultural Cancer Council. It is the first nationally recognized university student cancer organization which engages its membership in the pursuit of reducing the cancer burden and associated health disparities. The CCC functions as an educational service organization. Members have the opportunity to learn about cancer and related health disparities so that they may in turn share this knowledge with friends, peers, and the community at large. Participation in the CCC offers enhanced leadership skill development and opportunities to develop and be involved in meaningful educational and policy initiatives related to cancer prevention and control. Membership in the CCC requires a commitment to be actively involved with improving healthcare system outcomes. To learn how you can join or organize a CCC chapter at your school see . . .
http://ccc.iccnetwork.org

DAILY REMINDER:
"Fund Free Mammograms"
Go to The Breast Cancer Site at http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/tpc/EEB_0115_BCSm
and help fund free mammograms for the homeless, working-poor, and un-insured women. It costs nothing to you, except one daily click on the pink "Fund Free Mammograms" button. You can even request automatic reminders via e-mail. Please make your free click now, and thanks for your continuing support! The Breast Cancer Site, One Union Square, 600 University Street, Suite 1000, Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 1-888-811-5271

UPCOMING EVENTS: Mark Your Calendars and Save the Dates!

Rosebuds Meetings
Open to all Breast Cancer Patients/Survivors
1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month 5:45 - 7:30 p.m.
APRIL 3 & 17 MAY 1 & 15 JUNE 5 & 19
-----------------------------
Rosebuds II Meetings
(For those who have had or are at high risk
for recurrence and/or metastasis)
2nd and 4th Thursday of each month 5:45 - 7:30 p.m.
APRIL 12 & 26 MAY 10 & 24 JUNE 14 & 28
www.RosebudsSupport.org

"Brushes with Greatness"
The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
teams up with Saks Fifth Avenue, April 12, 2007 6:30-8:30pm
Ticket Price $25.00* For more info: bsmp@mdanderson.org
(Guests will receive $25 gift card to be used for cosmetics)
*A percentage of sales will benefit the
Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Road to Recovery Volunteer Driver Certification
•April 13, 2007 – 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. @ San Jacinto Cancer Center,
4021 Garth Rd, Baytown, TX 77521

•April 20, 2007 – 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. @ American Cancer Society Office, 6301 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77057

RSVP! For additional information about the Road to Recovery program, or to RSVP for one of the trainings, please call Damita Hines (713)706.5649

Note from Rosemary Barr: DRIVERS NEEDED
Lack of transportation is a major problem for thousands of cancer patients. Many patients need daily or weekly cancer treatment over the course of several months. Many patients do not have a car, are too ill to drive themselves, and/or do not have family or friends may not be able to assume the burden of frequent trips to treatment centers.

Road to Recovery uses volunteer drivers who use their own cars to transport cancer patients and a maximum of one companion to/from cancer treatment. If you have a car and some spare time, you can help someone keep a very important appointment.

Susan's Rally Golf Tournament
in the fight against breast cancer
Monday, April 16 281-480-7744
3820 San Jacinto, Houston TX 77004
www.susanrally.org

Survivors Offering Support (SOS)
Instead of meeting on the traditional second Tuesday of the month, April will be an exception to the rule. We will be meeting at the church on Tuesday, April 17 at 7 p.m. This meeting will be a “sharing and caring” format as well as a discussion of the results of the SOS survey. If you recall, the survey was an opportunity to give your opinion on a variety of issues ranging from prayer at the end of the meetings to the format of the meetings. Also, Marcia Williamson has a wonderful video to show us. It is titled “Stepping into the Ring.” It is a skit about a woman’s desperate fight with breast cancer and her deeper enemy, despair.

Pink Lemonade Guild Lecture Series Luncheon
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 Noon - 1:30pm
Guest Speaker: Beth Dwine, R.N., Author, Nurse, Yoga Instructor
"Five Simple Ways to Create Balance in Everyday Life"
Ouisie's Table, 3939 San Felipe
$25 per guest RSVP by April 13, 2007
713-524-7465 or Loubel@pinkribbons.org

Y-Me.org ShareRing Network
April 18, 2007, 7:00 p.m. (CT)
Topic: “Understanding Lymphedema Treatment”
Speaker: Julia Osborne, P.T., C.M.L.D.T.
Clinic Director
Physiotherapy Associates
Oncology Rehabilitation
Denver, CO
Julia Osborne is a certified lymphedema specialist. She is Clinic Director of Oncology Rehabilitation Physiotherapy Associates in Denver , Co which is one of few facilities in the United States that exclusively treats oncology patients. She has treated oncology patients for over 5 years.

This is a free, monthly one-hour teleconference featuring a breast cancer related presentation by a medical professional followed by a question and answer session. Participants are divided into small groups for discussion, which are moderated by peer counselors. The ShareRing Network teleconferences take place on the third Wednesday of each month, beginning at 7:00 PM Central Time (CT). Questions about this program can be directed to sharering@y-me.org or 1-800-221-2141.

2007 Pink Ribbon Reception
Thursday, April 26, 2007
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Junior League of Houston
1811 Briar Oaks Lane
Free to Affiliate Members
2007 Chair Claudia Brown and
Co-chairs Nicole Barnett and Anne Williams

Relay for Life of Cy Fair College
American Cancer Society Overnight Event
April 27 & 28, 2007, 7:00pm - 7:00am
www.acsevents.org/cyfair for info & registration

Breast Cancer: Its Effect on Spouses & Others
Saturday, April 28, 2007
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
The Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
www.mdanderson.org/youngbreastsurvivor
Email: bsmp@mdanderson.org

Susan's Rally
Sunday, April 29
For info: 713-526-2747
www.susanrally.org

The 2nd Annual Cancer Patient & Caregiver Conference
Friday, May 4, 2007. Registration:9:00am
Program begins at 9:30am-2:30pm.
Dr Michael Keating from MD Anderson will be the keynote speaker.
Location: United Way Building 50 Waugh Drive.
To Register: 713-520-9873 Contact Person: Elizabeth Wilson
www.cancercouseling.info

Relay For Life of Angelina County
American Cancer Society
May 4th & 5th, 2007
Lufkin Middle School

Relay For Life® is a fun-filled overnight event designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer in our community. At the event, we celebrate survivorship and raise money to help the American Cancer Society in its mission to save lives, help those who have been touched by cancer, and empower individuals to fight back.
http://www.acsevents.org/angelina/positivepinkdynamite

Walk to Empower
3-Mile walk, Sunday, May 13, 2007
MacGregor Park, Houston, Tx 9:00am
Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization
No Fee Register online at www.y-me.org

The Alice Thomsen Lymphedema Awareness Group of Houston
Meetings are scheduled on the 3rd Tuesday of every other month at the American cancer Society Building,6301 Richmond (between Hillcroft and Fountainview) at 7:00pm. The 2007 dates are May 15th, July 17th, September 18 and November 20th.
For further information call 281-546-6438.

CanCare Survivors Day Luncheon
Date: Thursday, May 31, 2007
For More Info: patwh@cancare.org
As most of you know our Survivors Day Luncheon will be held on Thursday, May 31 at the Intercontinental Hotel. Our luncheon event is a wonderful way to honor friends, family and employees who are cancer survivors and the medical communities who treat them. Our keynote speaker is Scott Hamilton, who is considered to be the world's most celebrated figure skater. In addition to being a role model and humanitarian, Mr. Hamilton is also a ten-year testicular cancer survivor.

2007 Komen Survivor Party
August 22, at The Houstonian
Details to be announced in future posts.

"The Faces behind Breast Cancer" Launch Party
Save the date, Sunday August 26, at 1:00 pm.
Details will be announced in future posts.

Living Fully
M.D. Anderson Annual Conference
September 6-8 2007
Marriott Westchase - Houston, Texas
Additional information is not available at this time.

Tour De Pink 2007
Pink Ribbons Project
September 9, 2007
at Prairie View A&M University
www.tourdepink.org
Additional info in future posts.

2007 Breast Health Summit
"SAVE THE DATE" for the 2007 Breast Health Summit to be held on October 18, 2007 at the United Way in Houston. Please pass this information on to others who may be interested. Additional information will be sent out later by both e-mail and postal mail. And of course, if your mailing address has changed, please be sure to forward the updated information to me. I look forward to seeing you in October!
Pat Dames
The Rose-
12700 North Featherwood
Houston, TX 77034
281-464-5150
Fax 281-484-7083
pdames@the-rose.org
www.the-rose.org

"Sharing is Caring"
As always, The Pink Crusader welcomes your comments, stories, poems, and events. Posts are updated every Sunday. Please send your written contributions to thepinkcrusader1@aol.com.

This concludes our weekly edition of the Pink Crusader. See you next week!

All I really need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt!

-Lucy Van Pelt, "Peanuts" by Charles M. Schulz

Stay strong, stay well, and keep on dancing with the hope of a better tomorrow.

Love, Josie
The Pink Crusader
thepinkcrusader1@aol.com

Just Kidding!

Dear Blogger Family and Friends,

A BIG HUG and warm welcome to one and all. Nice of you to visit on this happy April Fool's Day. Hope you brought your funny bone with you, because I plan on giving you a little tickle. Sit down and relax ......Oops....forgot to mention the whoopee cushion under the seat...... Your chewing gum tastes weird? Oh, just a touch of Tabasco sauce......Here, let me get you a glass of lemonade.......Too salty? Gosh, I must have switched the salt shaker with the sugar jar. Oh yeah, there's a fake bug in your ice-cube, too....Now you're asking why the house smells like rotting fish heads? Don't worry, I "accidentally" freshened the room with Fart Spray instead of grabbing the Glade Mist. The stench should be gone within a few days. Sorry about that! By the way, did I neglect to mention that the Pink Crusader is being held hostage by her wicked sense of humor, and "Princess Prankster" is filling in today?

"If you're robbing a bank, and your pants suddenly fall down, I think it's okay to laugh, and to let the hostages laugh too, because come on, life is funny."

-Jack Handy

In pursuit of a little levity? Who doesn't enjoy a good joke? It's a known fact that cancer survivors are the jocular masters when it comes to dark humor. The darker and more absurd, the better. And yet, while it's fun to amuse ourselves, laughter is best when it can be shared. It doesn't cost anything, and it is very portable.....Carry it with you wherever you go. People laugh at other people laughing....even if they don't know why......Like a yawn can set off a chain reaction...so can laughter be just as contagious.

No one ever died of laughter....but laughter can do what medicine cannot. It is powerful enough to lower blood pressure, ease depression, end arguments, or mend broken hearts. It can bring people closer together, erase the tension of an awkward situation, open doors for opportunity, help relieve stress, and obliterate the aftertaste of a really bad day. You can't deny, that when you lose your sense of humor, you've lost a very valuable weapon.

Okay, my fellow jesters.....It's time for a little mischief and a few harmless pranks and puns. Just for laughs, let's get wild, go crazy, and be naughty! Whether your jovial style is crude or high-brow, do it with enthusiasm, and make Princess Prankster proud! Zoom, zoom, zoom!

HISTORY OF APRIL FOOL's DAY
Many of the ancient cultures such as Romans and Hindus and the medieval Europeans use to celebrate New Year's Day on or near the vernal equinox. This could range from March 20th to April 5th. In the Julian calendar, April 1st was designated as the New Year's Day and was so celebrated till 1582, when Pope Gregory XIII ordered the adoption of the new Gregorian Calendar, which officially specified January 1st as New Year's Day. However, due to slow communications and resistance to change their traditions, many people continued to celebrate New Year's Day as before, on the 1st of April. The Scotts only adopted the new calendar in 1660, while the Germans, Danish and Norwegians in 1700, and English in 1752.

Many French resisted the change and were dubbed as "fools." These "fools" became victims of pranks and were sent fake invitations for parties and tricked into believing false ideas. The victims were called 'Poisson d'Avril' or 'April Fish' as the naive fish get caught easily. Even children would often tag a fish's picture on someone's back. Thus, April Fool's Day originated and caught on quickly throughout the world. Even today, people play pranks on each other in the memory of those tradition-obsessed "fools".

Perhaps the best illustration of the April Fool's Pranks of the 19th century is the Thomas Nast's illustration, originally published in the April 2, 1864 issue of Harper's Weekly. It highlights the various pranks that were popularly played at the time with its caption as 'All Fool's Day'. Some of the pranks shown here include women visiting an older man, wearing beards and moustaches, Civil War Soldiers tricking each other such as a soldier barring the view by holding his hand on in front of the binoculars of a friend and a sailor doing the same by holding his hat over the telescope of a friend. The other tricks include a young boy tying a string on the dress of a little girl while a schoolteacher is shown with the sign of 'Old Fool' on his back.
Source: www.google.com

ANSWERED PRAYERS:
Last week we encouraged your prayers in support of several friends who were dealing with some very serious health issues. This week the Pink Crusader is happy to report that your prayers and positive thoughts were answered. It gives me great pleasure to provide the following updates:

Janice writes:
Thank each of the "Buds" for all they have given me and my family, and believe me when I say it has been so, so much. I thank each of you for walking this road with my family and I. A new road and very fearful one. You have given us so much strength ,comfort, support and continued Hope. And, most of all, to be in constant prayer. I take with me all of your faces. There are no words to express what you all have done and continue to do today . I'm so humbled by you . I'm back on my lap top !!!!!!!!!!!!! Hugs ,kisses
Janice

Post Script from Linda: Janice stopped by the Learning Center after her doctor's appointment yesterday, and said I could tell you all her good news. Yesterday was the day she received her test results. As expected, her brain tumor is mets (metastatic) from the breast. The wonderful news is that there is no sign at all of any cancer activity. All her tests, which include PET scan, circulating tumor marker and regular tumor marker are normal - no indication at all of any cancer activity !!!! Again- Janice is VERY thankful for all our prayers -
Hugs, Linda

Julia K writes:
MY DEAREST FRIENDS AND FAMILY,
I JUST GOT MY RESULTS BACK AND PRAISE GOD EVERYTHING CAME BACK NEGATIVE FOR CANCER. WE ARE CELEBRATING WITH TEARS OF JOY. ALL WAS CLEAR OF ANY CANCER OR ANYTHING ELSE. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS AND SUPPORT. IT IS APPRECIATED MORE THAN YOU KNOW.
LOVE JULIA,

Martha writes:
I think life goes on when you have a good reason, and you will enjoy no matter what happens(called the big C). I just finished my last chemo and I feel great and very happy that I made it through this and am alive!!! The radiation is just a piece of cake, but what the heck!!! after FAC this is nothing!!!! (I'm dealing with my chemobrain, so sorry about my spelling) Like you said, "keep on dancing" and enjoy the life. Everybody is in my prayers (even if I don't call you or e-mail you).
Love & blessings
Martha

Argelia writes:
Well, not much changes yet. Still, need to wait until all tests are done for treatment plan. By the way, I did meet the new group of Rosebuds II. Most of them seem to be in my category of treatment. Everybody in Rosebuds I is in past-healing phase. When all is over and behind me. Then, maybe I'll return to Rosebuds I group. Thank you very much for remembering me. Tomorrow is 2 1/2 week post-op. Again, I am a fighter and will not stop. I do not (what so ever) blame this on myself. As somebody wrote, "Life isn't fair." Personally, people need to stop thinking in that mode. Or get out of that "time zone."
Talk to you soon,
Argelia

B. Kaye writes:
I certainly do not feel forgotten!! I'm doing well... No, I still can't lift because I have a "hole" in the inner cleavage of "Elizabeth", about the size of a nickel. My range of motion is better but I'm just not going there, as I'm afraid all my belly fat will fall out the hole!! LOL!! Then I'd have to start over again and I'm NOT willing to go there!! LOL! I go back on Thursday and we'll decide if it can be stitched, or if a skin graft will be done in the symmetry surgery.

At first I was told that I couldn't have symmetry surgery until it completely healed and new skin grows...but new skin is not growing... since the transplant I tend to heal slowly. Thursday we'll also decide if I'm ready to do symmetry in May or June. My vacation is in May but I have a friend who is willing to trade with me if I need June time off.
Big Hugs!
B.Kaye

HEADLINES & NEWS MAKERS:

Pat McWaters - CBS Evening News

On 3/28/07, Pat McWaters , fellow Rosebud II member, (and participant in, "The Faces behind Breast Cancer"), was filmed at M.D. Anderson for a national news segment by CBS Evening News (Local Channel 11). CBS medical correspondent John LaPook interviewed Pat for a special report on metastatic breast cancer disease. Unfortunately, Pat's T.V. appearance was interrupted by coverage of the horrible fire in Houston. However, you can still view the clip online by going to the following link for CBS News video:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/03/28/eveningnews/main2620962.shtml

Pink Ribbons Project: Male Breast Cancer Forum "Open Journal", KPFT Radio

Executive Director Susan Rafte, and Board of Directors member Cheryl Donlin lead an on-air discussion regarding male breast cancer, on Friday, March 30th, Noon-1:00 p.m, at 90.1 KPFT radio. Featured guests included Doug Ustick- Pink Ribbons Project, Board of Directors member and male breast cancer survivor (and participant in "The Faces behind Breast Cancer") and Dr. Sharon Giordano-Assistant Professor of Medicine, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Breast Medical Oncology, with clinical/research interests in male breast cancer. The program was very informative and educational. If you would like to evaluate and encourage additional forums by Pink Ribbons Project, send your comments to: KPFT.org or follow the link to http://houston.kpft.org/site/Survey?SURVEY_ID=1000&ACTION_REQUIRED=URI_ACTION_USER_REQUESTS!

Post Script from Cheryl Donlin:
Thank your for listening! and thank you for your positive comments on our Open Journal show on male breast cancer. (Please go to www.kpft.org and do a Program Evaluation!) We are thrilled at the opportunity and are already planning the next one. I'll let you know the date, once it's confirmed.

One of the points made on the show was that women can be a major force in raising awareness about male breast cancer by encouraging the men in our lives to talk to their doctors about breast cancer screening. These men -- our fathers, husbands, partners, brothers, sons and friends -- are not immune to this so-called “woman’s” disease.

I want to encourage women who listened to the show to talk to the men in their lives about it. For those women who did not catch the show, I encourage them to go to www.kpft.org and either listen to it, or download it. Instructions for doing that follow:

1. Go to www.kpft.org
2. In the black banner at the top of the page: click on "Audio Archives"
3. Scroll down to "Open Journal Friday, March 30, 2007 12:00 pm"
4. To listen, click "listen"
5. To download, RIGHT-CLICK on "Download"
6. A menu will drop down:
* in Windows Explorer, choose "Save Target As" from the drop-down menu
* in Netscape Navigator, choose "Save link to target as"
7. Browse your way to the location on your computer where you want to save the program
8. Click "Save"
9. Share this information with anyone who might benefit from it!
(The file is 10.8 MB in size)

If you would consider posting this information on your blogspot, I would really appreciate it. You never know whose life might be impacted by the information.

Have a wonderful weekend! Work. Create. Grow. Give. Cheryl

Washington Post article on new MRI Screening Guidelines

Cheryl also brought our attention to the following article regarding new screening guidelines issued by the American Cancer Society for women at risk for breast cancer. It recommends annual MRIs that can catch small tumors that mammograms can miss. To view this article in its entirety, visit the Washington Post online at:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/03/27/AR2007032702326.html

A Reporter's Story

My dear friend Patty Brown, shared this touching story of Boston's NewsCenter 5 reporter, Kelly Tuthill, who was diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer just before Christmas and underwent successful cancer surgery on Jan. 22. Kelly kept a video diary of her breast cancer journey, which she shared with her local viewers. To watch highlights and read Kelley's online diary, go to the following link: http://www.thebostonchannel.com/health/10869647/detail.html?taf=bos

The Cancer Diva

My angel friend, DeDe Destefano, passed along the following blogspot posted by Houston Chronicle's blogger , Terry Hayes (a.k.a. the Cancer Diva). You can read Terry's online journals featuring her cancer adventures and mis-adventures at: http://blogs.chron.com/cancerdiva/2007/03/check_out_the_cancerdiva_on_kh.html

FYI:
Sister Study
My walking buddy, Staci, was just accepted into the Sister Study and is passing along this Urgent Recruitment Message:

WE NEED YOU NOW MORE THAN EVER to help us recruit women just like you! The Sister Study needs a total of 50,000 women by the end of 2007. We currently have 33,000 women enrolled in the study which means we need to recruit 17,000 more women by the end of this year. Our most successful method of recruitment is through word of mouth, so this is where you can play a pivotal role today.

Through your personal participation in the Sister Study, you are making a tremendous contribution to breast cancer research. But we have another important request. Please forward this email to other women, friends and family members who may be interested. Or give them a call or a brochure about the study (call 1-877-474-7837 for brochures). If each current participant in the Sister Study helps us recruit one other woman this year, we will reach our goal and complete our recruitment phase on time! Remember, breast cancer affects women from every walk of life, so we need women of all backgrounds, occupations, and ethnic groups to join.

You may be eligible to join the Sister Study if -
Ø Your sister (living, deceased), related to you by blood, had breast cancer
Ø You are between 35 and 74 years old
Ø You have never had breast cancer yourself
Ø You live in the U.S. or Puerto Rico

To join today or learn more about the Sister Study, visit the web site www.sisterstudy.org in English or www.estudiodehermanas.org in Spanish. You may also call 1-877-4SISTER (877-474-7837), English and Spanish. All study materials are available in Spanish. Deaf/Hard of Hearing call 1-866-TTY-4SIS (866-889-4747).
With our gratitude and best wishes,
The Sister Study Recruitment Team and

Dale P Sandler PhD
Chief, Epidemiology Branch
Principal Investigator of the Sister Study
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
National Institutes of Health
www.sisterstudy.org

New Pink & White M&M's

The maker of M&M candies has teamed up with the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation to raise funds through the sale of their new " pink &white " M&M candies.

For each 8-ounce bag of the special candies sold, the makers of M&M (Masterfoods) will donate 50 cents to the foundation. The next time you want a treat, please pick up a bag for yourself and a friend. You will be donating to a great cause and satisfying your sweet tooth at the same time!

DAILY REMINDER:
"Fund Free Mammograms"
Go to The Breast Cancer Site at http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/tpc/EEB_0115_BCSm
and help fund free mammograms for the homeless, working-poor, and un-insured women. It costs nothing to you, except one daily click on the pink "Fund Free Mammograms" button. You can even request automatic reminders via e-mail. Please make your free click now, and thanks for your continuing support! The Breast Cancer Site, One Union Square, 600 University Street, Suite 1000, Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 1-888-811-5271

UPCOMING EVENTS: Mark Your Calendars!

Rosebuds Meetings
Open to all Breast Cancer Patients/Survivors
1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month 5:45 - 7:30 p.m.
APRIL 3 & 17 MAY 1 & 15 JUNE 5 & 19
-----------------------------
Rosebuds II Meetings
(For those who have had or are at high risk
for recurrence and/or metastasis)
2nd and 4th Thursday of each month 5:45 - 7:30 p.m.
APRIL 12 & 26 MAY 10 & 24 JUNE 14 & 28
www.RosebudsSupport.org

"Brushes with Greatness"
The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
teams up with Saks Fifth Avenue, April 12, 2007 6:30-8:30pm
Ticket Price $25.00* For more info: bsmp@mdanderson.org
(Guests will receive $25 gift card to be used for cosmetics)
*A percentage of sales will benefit the
Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Susan's Rally Golf Tournament
in the fight against breast cancer
Monday, April 16 281-480-7744
3820 San Jacinto, Houston TX 77004
www.susanrally.org

Pink Lemonade Guild Lecture Series Luncheon
Wednesday, April 18, 2007 Noon - 1:30pm
Guest Speaker: Beth Dwine, R.N., Author, Nurse, Yoga Instructor
"Five Simple Ways to Create Balance in Everyday Life"
Ouisie's Table, 3939 San Felipe
$25 per guest RSVP by April 13, 2007
713-524-7465 or Loubel@pinkribbons.org

2007 Pink Ribbon Reception
Thursday, April 26, 2007
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Junior League of Houston
1811 Briar Oaks Lane
Free to Affiliate Members
2007 Chair Claudia Brown and
Co-chairs Nicole Barnett and Anne Williams

Relay for Life of Cy Fair College
American Cancer Society Overnight Event
April 27 & 28, 2007, 7:00pm - 7:00am
www.acsevents.org/cyfair for info & registration

Breast Cancer: Its Effect on Spouses & Others
Saturday, April 28, 2007
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
The Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
www.mdanderson.org/youngbreastsurvivor
Email: bsmp@mdanderson.org

Susan's Rally
Sunday, April 29
For info: 713-526-2747
www.susanrally.org

The 2nd Annual Cancer Patient & Caregiver Conference
Friday, May 4, 2007. Registration:9:00am
Program begins at 9:30am-2:30pm.
Dr Michael Keating from MD Anderson will be the keynote speaker.
Location: United Way Building 50 Waugh Drive.
To Register: 713-520-9873 Contact Person: Elizabeth Wilson
www.cancercouseling.info

Relay For Life of Angelina County
American Cancer Society
May 4th & 5th, 2007
Lufkin Middle School

Relay For Life® is a fun-filled overnight event designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer in our community. At the event, we celebrate survivorship and raise money to help the American Cancer Society in its mission to save lives, help those who have been touched by cancer, and empower individuals to fight back.
http://www.acsevents.org/angelina/positivepinkdynamite

Walk to Empower
3-Mile walk, Sunday, May 13, 2007
MacGregor Park, Houston, Tx 9:00am
Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization
No Fee Register online at www.y-me.org

The Alice Thomsen Lymphedema Awareness Group of Houston
Meetings are scheduled on the 3rd Tuesday of every other month at the American cancer Society Building,6301 Richmond (between Hillcroft and Fountainview) at 7:00pm. The 2007 dates are May 15th, July 17th, September 18 and November 20th.
For further information call 281-546-6438.

CanCare Survivors Day Luncheon
Date: Thursday, May 31, 2007
For More Info: patwh@cancare.org
As most of you know our Survivors Day Luncheon will be held on Thursday, May 31 at the Intercontinental Hotel. Our luncheon event is a wonderful way to honor friends, family and employees who are cancer survivors and the medical communities who treat them. Our keynote speaker is Scott Hamilton, who is considered to be the world's most celebrated figure skater. In addition to being a role model and humanitarian, Mr. Hamilton is also a ten-year testicular cancer survivor.

2007 Komen Survivor Party
August 22, at The Houstonian
Details to be announced in future posts.

"The Faces behind Breast Cancer" Launch Party
Save the date, Sunday August 26, at 1:00 pm.
Details will be announced in future posts.

Living Fully
M.D. Anderson Annual Conference
September 6-8 2007
Marriott Westchase - Houston, Texas
Additional information is not available at this time.

Tour De Pink 2007
Pink Ribbons Project
September 9, 2007
at Prairie View A&M University
www.tourdepink.org
Additional info in future posts.

2007 Breast Health Summit
"SAVE THE DATE" for the 2007 Breast Health Summit to be held on October 18, 2007 at the United Way in Houston. Please pass this information on to others who may be interested. Additional information will be sent out later by both e-mail and postal mail. And of course, if your mailing address has changed, please be sure to forward the updated information to me. I look forward to seeing you in October!
Pat Dames
The Rose-
12700 North Featherwood
Houston, TX 77034
281-464-5150
Fax 281-484-7083
pdames@the-rose.org
www.the-rose.org

"Sharing is Caring"
As always, The Pink Crusader welcomes your comments, stories, poems, and events. Posts are updated every Sunday. Please send your written contributions to thepinkcrusader1@aol.com.

That concludes this week's edition of the Pink Crusader. Hope you had fun and will continue to spread a little laughter to others throughout the week.

"When you die, if you get a choice between going to regular heaven or pie heaven, choose pie heaven. It might be a trick, but if it's not, mmmmmmmmmm boy!"

-Jack Handy

Until next week, Stay strong, stay well, and keep on dancing with a smile on your face and a joke in your heart.

Love, Josie
The Pink Crusader
thepinkcrusader1@aol.com

Wishes, Dreams & Miracles

Dear Blogger Family & Friends,

Heartfelt greetings and BIG HUG to one and all. A special warm welcome to those of you visiting The Pink Crusader blog spot for the first time. We hope you like what you see, and will continue to stop by on a weekly basis! The more, the merrier, so keep spreading the good word as we help raise awareness and promote well-being among breast cancer survivors and the community at large!

When you walk through a storm
Keep your chin up high
And don't be afraid of the dark.
At he end of the storm
Is a golden sky
And the sweet silver song of a lark.

Walk on through the wind,
Walk on through the rain,
Though your dreams be tossed and blown.
Walk on, walk on
With hope in your heart
And you'll never walk alone,
You'll never walk alone.

Song: "You'll Never Walk Alone" from Carousel
Lyrics:Rodgers & Hammerstein

Choosing a blog topic each week can sometimes be a daunting process. It involves reflecting on all the issues, events and encounters that influenced my life in the past seven days. If I've had a good week.....the words come much easier. However when things go bonkers, then I need to count to ten before I let loose. I choose my words carefully and give strong consideration to all who enter this space. You are most welcome to agree or disagree, and I invite your written comments at any time.

Having said that, I can safely tell you that this week has been somewhat turbulent....not only for myself, and Elizabeth Edwards, but for several of my fellow survivors whose lives have been profoundly challenged, yet again, by the cancer monster. While they are facing difficult times with an uncertain outcome, they remain brave, cheerful and full of hope, asking for nothing more than our prayers and God's blessing. They are not alone. We are all in their corner, cheering them on through their metastatic set-backs and onward to a recovery just short of a miracle.

Who couldn't use a pocketful of miracles? I'd settle for just one if it were mine for the asking and the taking. I admit that sometimes my imagination can get the best of me as I walk the fine line between wishes, dreams and miracles. If I had a magic lamp and could make just one wish come true, it would not be for love, money or a size 16-inch waist. Instead, I would take my one wish and ask for a better, kinder and peaceful world, where everyone was healthy, content and safe.

In reality, however, there is no time to whine about things beyond my control.....It is important to stay grounded, keep the fantasies in check, and look to obtain the impossible through more conventional means, especially due to the shortage of genies in a bottle (smile). But for now, I will wish for the impossible.....dream of the unobtainable.......and pray for small miracles. My friends (Janice, Argelia, Angie, Julia M., Julia K., and Julie G.), are counting on it, so please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Moving on.....This week we have the pleasure of sharing a poem written by Andrea Scatuccio, and submitted by fellow Rosebud II member, Penny. As the saying goes, "Hope Floats." This poem is a wonderful reminder that we should never give up on ourselves or each other. Thank you both for your contributions to the Pink Crusader.

BREAST CANCER
If you allow,
it will consume you
take you in its grasp
try to invade you, right down to your core
until you cry out in anguish.
You must remember you are stronger
you will not allow it to possess you
you will control it
break its evil hold upon you
remove its deadly grasp.
You, my friend, have the key
you have those to lift you high
to hold your trembling hand
making you reach higher that you ever thought possible.
You realize how much you've gained
more importantly, to know self-respect
accepting your limitations
setting your own personal goals and beating the odds.
See, you've been chosen
no one better to fight this battle.
And with the help of those around you,
you will stride toward winning
letting the darkness stand behind you.
you will stride toward winning
letting the darkness stand behind you.
Stand proud and strong,
realize your dreams
find your inner beauty and make it shine
help those beside you along this journey
to rely on, to confide in, to understand.
We have each other
to share our heartbreaks and triumphs
to reach out,
to heal from deep within.
So share your tales of sorrow...
laugh with me, cry with me
for nothing is worse than feeling alone
and come along as we share this voyage,
wherever it may go.
- Andrea Scatuccio

PESONAL NOTE: Thanks to Penny, our newest Rosebud II member, for sharing this inspirational poem. We encourage the rest of our readers to contribute their poetry for future posts, as well. Please send to: thepinkcrusader1@aol.com.

DAILY REMINDER: "Fund Free Mammograms"
Go to The Breast Cancer Site at http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/tpc/EEB_0115_BCSm
and help fund free mammograms for the homeless, working-poor, and un-insured women. It costs nothing to you, except one daily click on the pink "Fund Free Mammograms" button. You can even request automatic reminders via e-mail. Please make your free click now, and thanks for your continuing support! The Breast Cancer Site, One Union Square, 600 University Street, Suite 1000, Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 1-888-811-5271

UPCOMING EVENTS: Mark Your Calendars!

"Brushes with Greatness"
The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
teams up with Saks Fifth Avenue, April 12, 2007 6:30-8:30pm
Ticket Price $25.00* For more info: bsmp@mdanderson.org
(Guests will receive $25 gift card to be used for cosmetics)
*A percentage of sales will benefit the
Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Susan's Rally Golf Tournament
in the fight against breast cancer
Monday, April 16 281-480-7744
3820 San Jacinto, Houston TX 77004
www.susanrally.org

Relay for Life of Cy Fair College
American Cancer Society Overnight Event
April 27 & 28, 2007, 7:00pm - 7:00am
www.acsevents.org/cyfair for info & registration

Breast Cancer: Its Effect on Spouses & Others
Saturday, April 28, 2007
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
The Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
www.mdanderson.org/youngbreastsurvivor
Email: bsmp@mdanderson.org

Susan's Rally
Sunday, April 29
For info: 713-526-2747
www.susanrally.org

The National Breast Cancer Coalition/Fund
2007 Annual Advocacy Training Conference(NBCC)
"Beyond Ribbons to Revolution"
April 28 - May 1, 2007
Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington, VA
703-418-1234
Conference Contact: The Event Professionals
Email:nbccinfo@theeventpros.net 678-502-1454

The 2nd Annual Cancer Patient & Caregiver Conference
Friday, May 4, 2007. Registration:9:00am
Program begins at 9:30am-2:30pm.
Dr Michael Keating from MD Anderson will be the keynote speaker.
Location: United Way Building 50 Waugh Drive.
To Register: 713-520-9873 Contact Person: Elizabeth Wilson
www.cancercouseling.info

Relay For Life of Angelina County
American Cancer Society
May 4th & 5th, 2007
Lufkin Middle School

Relay For Life® is a fun-filled overnight event designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer in our community. At the event, we celebrate survivorship and raise money to help the American Cancer Society in its mission to save lives, help those who have been touched by cancer, and empower individuals to fight back.
http://www.acsevents.org/angelina/positivepinkdynamite

Walk to Empower
3-Mile walk, Sunday, May 13, 2007
MacGregor Park, Houston, Tx 9:00am
Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization
No Fee Register online at www.y-me.org

The Alice Thomsen Lymphedema Awareness Group of Houston
Meetings are scheduled on the 3rd Tuesday of every other month at the American cancer Society Building,6301 Richmond (between Hillcroft and Fountainview) at 7:00pm. The 2007 dates are May 15th, July 17th, September 18 and November 20th.
For further information call 281-546-6438.

CanCare Survivors Day Luncheon
Date: Thursday, May 31, 2007
For More Info: patwh@cancare.org
As most of you know our Survivors Day Luncheon will be held on Thursday, May 31 at the Intercontinental Hotel. Our luncheon event is a wonderful way to honor friends, family and employees who are cancer survivors and the medical communities who treat them. Our keynote speaker is Scott Hamilton, who is considered to be the world's most celebrated figure skater. In addition to being a role model and humanitarian, Mr. Hamilton is also a ten-year testicular cancer survivor.

"The Faces behind Breast Cancer" Launch Party
Save the date, Sunday August 26, at 1:00 pm.
Details will be announced in future posts.

Living Fully
M.D. Anderson Annual Conference
September 6-8 2007
Marriott Westchase - Houston, Texas
Additional information is not available at this time.

Tour De Pink 2007
Pink Ribbons Project
September 9, 2007
at Prairie View A&M University
www.tourdepink.org
Additional info in future posts.

"Sharing is Caring"
Posts are updated every Sunday. As always, The Pink Crusader welcomes your comments, stories, poems, and events. Please send your written contributions to thepinkcrusader1@aol.com.

“Never let go of hope. One day you will see that it all has finally come together. What you have always wished for has finally come to be. You will look back and laugh at what has passed and you will ask yourself... 'How did I get through all of that?”

- Unknown


Until next week, Stay strong, stay well, and keep on dancing with hope in your heart.

Love, Josie
The Pink Crusader
thepinkcrusader1@aol.com

Acceptance, Denial & Sublimation

Dear Blogger Family & Friends,

Welcome, welcome, welcome. Big hugs all around to each and every one of you.Hope you had a happy St. Paddy's Day.....whether you were guzzling green beer in a local pub, or sharing corned beef and a movie in the midst of a pre-Spring blizzard. I personally enjoyed an evening of good food, company, and conversation with the lovely lasses from our SOS support group. And, on the other end of the coast, my son and girlfriend were playing planes, trains and automobiles in an attempt to get from Seattle to Philadelphia....a little more adventure than they bargained for, but a memorable Spring Break none-the-less.

"We can only lie to ourselves for so long. We are tired, we are scared. Denying it doesn't change the truth. Sooner or later we have to put aside our denial and face the world....Head on, guns blazing.
De Nile. It's not just a river in Egypt, it's a freakin' ocean! So, how do you keep from drowning in it?"

-Meredith Grey (Grey's Anatomy)

Did you ever have one of those days, weeks, or life when you find it increasingly difficult to focus on the issues at hand (family, work, money, health, relationships, etc.), and dream of being invisible?.....Nothing could see you, touch you, penetrate or hurt you? Let's face it, who doesn't prefer to get lost in fantasy rather than face the truth head on. Sometimes it's easier to run for cover, rather than fight the proverbial two-headed monster.

If we deny our problems, no matter how inflated, we are basically denying the truth. Smoke screens only make it all the more difficult to accept our situations and find resolutions. You can't fix what you won't admit is broken. The real questions you should be asking are, "What are my fears......and how can I bring stability back to my life?" How you feel and choose to handle the realities of your life can strongly influence what happens tomorrow, however slow the process.

During a recent visit to Ohio, my dad (a.k.a. Papa Bear),and I, were sitting at the kitchen table discussing acceptance, denial and *sublimation. You know, just your average dinner conversation......I invited him to contribute his thoughts to the Pink Crusader blog spot and he kindly agreed. So, this week I am proud to share some words of wisdom from my beloved father.

Papa Bear writes:
Josie, I have been reading all your posts and following with interest the various forms of sublimation (not denial for sure) you have been using to deal with the new reality of your life. Doing something positive for ourselves and others, when our soul is in pain, is the essence of the wisdom of the ages, and is the stuff that **Eros is made of. If you keep structuring your life with the right balance of dreams and reality, you will get excellent results.
- Saverio Caruso, M.D.

Personal Note: Thanks Dad! Not only are you my intellectual and spiritual advisor, but you remain one of the truly great Renaissance men. I know many people will benefit from your encouraging words. God Bless You!

*Sublimation is the transformation of unwanted impulses into something less harmful. When we are faced with the dissonance of uncomfortable thoughts, we create psychic energy. This has to go somewhere. Sublimation channels this energy away from destructive acts and into something that is socially acceptable and/or creatively effective. Sublimation is probably the most useful and constructive of the defense mechanisms as it takes the energy of something that is potentially harmful and turns it to doing something good and useful.
Source: www.google.com

**Throughout Greek mythology, there appear to be two sides to the conception of Eros; in the first, he is a primeval deity who embodies not only the force of erotic love but also the creative urge of ever-flowing nature. In the second version, Eros is the firstborn Light that is responsible for the coming into being and ordering of all things in the cosmos. Source: www.google.com

DAILY REMINDER: "Fund Free Mammograms"
Go to The Breast Cancer Site at http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/tpc/EEB_0115_BCSm
and help fund free mammograms for the homeless, working-poor, and un-insured women. It costs nothing to you, except one daily click on the pink "Fund Free Mammograms" button. You can even request automatic reminders via e-mail. Please make your free click now, and thanks for your continuing support! The Breast Cancer Site, One Union Square, 600 University Street, Suite 1000, Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 1-888-811-5271

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Free Massage Session for People Living with Cancer
March 21, 22, 23, 2007, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Houston Community College, by appointment only
Contact Deborah Kelly, Massage Therapy Program Director
713-718-7389 or deborah.kelly@hccs.edu

Rosebuds II Meeting
Thursday, March 22, 2007
5:45 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Pink Lemonade Guild Plate Painting
Pink Ribbons Project
Guild members and family only
Sunday, March 25, 3:00-5:00pm
PICNIK Restaurant, 1928 Bissonnet

"Brushes with Greatness"
The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
teams up with Saks Fifth Avenue, April 12, 2007 6:30-8:30pm
Ticket Price $25.00* For more info: bsmp@mdanderson.org
(Guests will receive $25 gift card to be used for cosmetics)
*A percentage of sales will benefit the
Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Susan's Rally Golf Tournament
in the fight against breast cancer
Monday, April 16 281-480-7744
3820 San Jacinto, Houston TX 77004
www.susanrally.org

Relay for Life of Cy Fair College
American Cancer Society Overnight Event
April 27 & 28, 2007, 7:00pm - 7:00am
www.acsevents.org/cyfair for info & registration

Breast Cancer: Its Effect on Spouses & Others
Saturday, April 28, 2007
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
The Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
www.mdanderson.org/youngbreastsurvivor
Email: bsmp@mdanderson.org

Susan's Rally
Sunday, April 29
For info: 713-526-2747
www.susanrally.org

The National Breast Cancer Coalition/Fund
2007 Annual Advocacy Training Conference(NBCC)
"Beyond Ribbons to Revolution"
April 28 - May 1, 2007
Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington, VA
703-418-1234
Conference Contact: The Event Professionals
Email:nbccinfo@theeventpros.net 678-502-1454

The 2nd Annual Cancer Patient & Caregiver Conference
Friday, May 4, 2007. Registration:9:00am
Program begins at 9:30am-2:30pm.
Dr Michael Keating from MD Anderson will be the keynote speaker.
Location: United Way Building 50 Waugh Drive.
To Register: 713-520-9873 Contact Person: Elizabeth Wilson
www.cancercouseling.info

Relay For Life of Angelina County
American Cancer Society
May 4th & 5th, 2007
Lufkin Middle School

Relay For Life® is a fun-filled overnight event designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer in our community. At the event, we celebrate survivorship and raise money to help the American Cancer Society in its mission to save lives, help those who have been touched by cancer, and empower individuals to fight back.
http://www.acsevents.org/angelina/positivepinkdynamite

Walk to Empower
3-Mile walk, Sunday, May 13, 2007
MacGregor Park, Houston, Tx 9:00am
Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization
No Fee Register online at www.y-me.org

The Alice Thomsen Lymphedema Awareness Group of Houston
Meetings are scheduled on the 3rd Tuesday of every other month at the American cancer Society Building,6301 Richmond (between Hillcroft and Fountainview) at 7:00pm. The 2007 dates are May 15th, July 17th, September 18 and November 20th.
For further information call 281-546-6438.

"The Faces behind Breast Cancer" Launch Party
Save the date, Sunday August 26, at 1:00 pm.
Details will be announced in future posts.

Living Fully
M.D. Anderson Annual Conference
September 6-8 2007
Marriott Westchase - Houston, Texas
Additional information is not available at this time.

Tour De Pink 2007
Pink Ribbons Project
September 9, 2007
at Prairie View A&M University
www.tourdepink.org
Additional info in future posts.

"Sharing is Caring"
Posts are updated every Sunday. As always, The Pink Crusader welcomes your comments, stories, poems, and events. Please send your written contributions to thepinkcrusader1@aol.com.

"Self-acceptance comes from meeting life's challenges vigorously. Don't numb yourself to your trials and difficulties, nor build mental walls to exclude pain from your life. You will find peace not by trying to escape your problems, but by confronting them courageously. You will find peace not in denial, but in victory."

-J. Donald Walters

Until next week, stay strong, stay well, and keep on dancing in the real world!


Love, Josie
The Pink Crusader
thepinkcrusader1@aol.com

Did I Miss Something?

Dear Blogger Family and Friends,

This week, as with every week, I greet you with a warm welcome and BIG hug! Hope you are all doing well and feeling fit,fabulous, and fantastic!

"By labor we can find food and water, but all of our labor will not find for us another hour."

-Kenneth Patton

What a difference a day makes....especially when you are short-changed by one hour! Nothing like a dose of daylight savings time to rattle your system. Stick your face into a bowl of ice water and you'll get the same effect. Shock therapy! I know there is a logical explanation behind this disruptive process, but my brain won't buy it. And, once my body gets in sync, it will be time to re-adjust the clocks again!

On the practical side, when was the last time you took inventory of the number of clocks in your home...including watches, VCR's, oven, microwave, computer and car. It takes time to adjust time!

Some of you may think I'm over-stating my case, but as a cancer survivor I have an acute awareness and appreciation of the ticking clock. Time is precious, but it is not my friend. I live my life moment to moment...day to day, and squeeze as much as I can between sunrise to sunset. There is no luxury of looking too far into the future nor the luxury of procrastinating to complete a task at hand. Times a wastin' and nothing is going to break my stride....not even daylight savings time!

Moving on, this week I would like to pass on some light reading, compliments of my good friend Rosemary Herron. This is not only funny, but a good incentive to turn back time....Enjoy!

I OWE MY MOTHER (& some of these I OWE MY FATHER, TOO!)

1. My mother taught me TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.
"If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning."

2. My mother taught me RELIGION.
"You better pray that will come out of the carpet."

3. My mother taught me about TIME TRAVEL.
"If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of next week!"

4. My mother taught me LOGIC.
" Because I said so, that's why."

5. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC.
"If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to the store with me."

6. My mother taught me FORESIGHT.
"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."

7. My mother taught me IRONY.
"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."

8. My mother taught me about the science of OSMOSIS.
"Shut your mouth and eat your supper."

9. My mother taught me about CONTORTIONISM.
"Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"

10. My mother taught me about STAMINA.
"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."

11. My mother taught me about WEATHER.
"This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."

12 My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY.
"If I told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!"

13. My mother taught me the CIRCLE OF LIFE.
"I brought you into this world, and I can take you out."

14. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.
"Stop acting like your father!"

15. My mother taught me about ENVY.
"There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't have wonderful parents like you do."

16. My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION.
"Just wait until we get home."

17. My mother taught me about RECEIVING.
"You are going to get it when you get home!"

18. My mother taught me MEDICAL SCIENCE.
"If you don't stop crossing your eyes, they are going to freeze that way."

19. My mother taught me ESP.
"Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you are cold?"

20. My mother taught me HUMOR.
"When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."

21. My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT.
"If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up."

22. My mother taught me GENETICS.
"You're just like your father."

23. My mother taught me about my ROOTS.
"Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?"

24. My mother taught me WISDOM.
"When you get to be my age, you'll understand."

25. And my favorite: My mother taught me about JUSTICE.
"One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you!"

PERSONAL NOTE: Thank you, Rosemary, for your humorous contribution to this week's blog post. As always, I encourage all of our readers to pass along their stories, poetry, comments and events to The Pink Crusader. Just e-mail your information to thepinkcrusader1@aol.com. Posts are updated every Sunday.

DAILY REMINDER: "Fund Free Mammograms"
Go to The Breast Cancer Site at http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/tpc/EEB_0115_BCSm
and help fund free mammograms for the homeless, working-poor, and un-insured women. It costs nothing to you, except one daily click on the pink "Fund Free Mammograms" button. You can even request automatic reminders via e-mail. Please make your free click now, and thanks for your continuing support! The Breast Cancer Site, One Union Square, 600 University Street, Suite 1000, Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 1-888-811-5271

UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHOP for a CAUSE
Macy's has again selected The Rose to participate in their SHOP for a CAUSE campaign, on Saturday, March 17th from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. By making a $5 donation to The Rose, participants will receive an all-day 20% or 15% off shopping pass, $10 off a $20 purchase or more coupon, and a chance to win a $500 shopping spree. The passes are good at ANY MACY'S. There are 1,500 passes available. If you are interested in helping, please contact Kristi Brown, Special Events Coordinator
The Rose- 12700 N. Featherwood, Ste. 260, Houston, TX 77034
(281) 464-5142 direct
(281) 464-2743 fax
www.the-rose.org

The Alice Thomsen Lymphedema Awareness Group of Houston
Meetings are scheduled on the 3rd Tuesday of every other month at the American cancer Society Building,6301 Richmond (between Hillcroft and Fountainview) at 7:00pm. The 2007 dates are March 20th, May 15th, July 17th, September 18 and November 20th.
For further information call 281-546-6438.

Free Massage Session for People Living with Cancer
March 21, 22, 23, 2007, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Houston Community College, by appointment only
Contact Deborah Kelly, Massage Therapy Program Director
713-718-7389 or deborah.kelly@hccs.edu

Pink Lemonade Guild Plate Painting
Pink Ribbons Project
Guild members and family only
Sunday, March 25, 3:00-5:00pm
PICNIK Restaurant, 1928 Bissonnet

"Brushes with Greatness"
The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
teams up with Saks Fifth Avenue, April 12, 2007 6:30-8:30pm
Ticket Price $25.00* For more info: bsmp@mdanderson.org
(Guests will receive $25 gift card to be used for cosmetics)
*A percentage of sales will benefit the
Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Susan's Rally Golf Tournament
in the fight against breast cancer
Monday, April 16 281-480-7744
3820 San Jacinto, Houston TX 77004
www.susanrally.org

Relay for Life of Cy Fair College
American Cancer Society Overnight Event
April 27 & 28, 2007, 7:00pm - 7:00am
www.acsevents.org/cyfair for info & registration

Susan's Rally
Sunday, April 29
For info: 713-526-2747
www.susanrally.org

The National Breast Cancer Coalition/Fund
2007 Annual Advocacy Training Conference(NBCC)
"Beyond Ribbons to Revolution"
April 28 - May 1, 2007
Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington, VA
703-418-1234
Conference Contact: The Event Professionals
Email:nbccinfo@theeventpros.net 678-502-1454

The 2nd Annual Cancer Patient & Caregiver Conference
Friday, May 4, 2007. Registration:9:00am
Program begins at 9:30am-2:30pm.
Dr Michael Keating from MD Anderson will be the keynote speaker.
Location: United Way Building 50 Waugh Drive.
To Register: 713-520-9873 Contact Person: Elizabeth Wilson
www.cancercouseling.info

Relay For Life of Angelina County
American Cancer Society
May 4th & 5th, 2007
Lufkin Middle School

Relay For Life® is a fun-filled overnight event designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer in our community. At the event, we celebrate survivorship and raise money to help the American Cancer Society in its mission to save lives, help those who have been touched by cancer, and empower individuals to fight back.
http://www.acsevents.org/angelina/positivepinkdynamite

Walk to Empower
3-Mile walk, Sunday, May 13, 2007
MacGregor Park, Houston, Tx 9:00am
Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization
No Fee Register online at www.y-me.org

"The Faces behind Breast Cancer" Launch Party
Save the date, Sunday August 26, at 1:00 pm.
Details will be announced in future posts.

Living Fully
M.D. Anderson Annual Conference
September 6-8 2007
Marriott Westchase - Houston, Texas
Additional information is not available at this time.

Tour De Pink 2007
Pink Ribbons Project
September 9, 2007
at Prairie View A&M University
www.tourdepink.org
Additional info in future posts.

"Time is a companion that goes with us on a journey. It reminds us to cherish each moment, because it will never come again. What we leave behind is not as important as how we have lived."

- Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Star Trek)

Until next week, stay strong, stay well, and keep on dancing as if there was no tomorrow! Happy St. Patrick's Day!



Love, Josie
The Pink Crusader
thepinkcrusader1@aol.com

Stepping out of My Skin

Dear Blogger Family and Friends,

A big hug and warm welcome from the snowy hills of Northeastern Ohio! The Pink Crusader finally reunited with family and friends in the Midwest, following eight long months of cancer treatment. There is nothing like the love and support of family and friends to help ease you back into the real world. What could be better than familiar faces, sights, sounds and smells....all wrapped up in one beautiful homecoming package. It may be a simple view from where I sit, but never-the-less, I feel like I'm sitting on top of the world!

"Happiness is having a large, loving, caring, close-knit family in another city."

-George Burns

I was inspired to write this post today, following a conversation with my youngest sister, Cindy. We were sharing a good laugh over the state of my barely-there-hair, when she remarked, "After all you've been through, it must be nice to leave the cancer bubble and step outside your skin." She was right. Metaphorically speaking, it is the equivalent thrill of putting on a brand new outfit after living in worn pajamas and fatigued hospital gowns for the better part of a year....it feels good and looks marvelous! I am happy! In fact, I'm happy on top of happy! I'm so happy, I'm doing cartwheels in the snow! I'm so happy it should be illegal! In other words,
I'm H-A-P-P-Y!!!!!!!!!

Special thanks to Papa Bear, my brother, sisters, and gallery of friends who never made me feel like a victim, or any less than the person I strive to be. I have faced the front line, and fought for this happy reunion. P.S. Hey Larry, thanks for the home-made venison chili! It was hot enough to kill mosquitoes, but very tasty!

On that note, I would like to move along to a beautiful poem written by my friend, and guest contributor, Cheryl Donlin.

Aloneness
(Newly-diagnosed)

The silence beats upon my mind
fanning out in waves of
tone on tone.

It echoes in my heart and ricochets
spilling out in toneless sighs
of soul-song.

Shattering what was and reforging
who and what and how
I am.
-Anna Lucile Dunn & Cheryl P. Donlin


PERSONAL NOTE: Thank you, Cheryl, for sharing such touching words that others may benefit from your personal journey. I know your poem evoked many emotions, and is especially poignant because it was written in collaboration with your late mother. What a loving tribute to her, as well.

DAILY REMINDER: "Fund Free Mammograms"
Go to The Breast Cancer Site at http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/tpc/EEB_0115_BCSm
and help fund free mammograms for the homeless, working-poor, and un-insured women. It costs nothing to you, except one daily click on the pink "Fund Free Mammograms" button. You can even request automatic reminders via e-mail. Please make your free click now, and thanks for your continuing support! The Breast Cancer Site, One Union Square, 600 University Street, Suite 1000, Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: 1-888-811-5271

Take One Minute to Help Others
This is a simple and helpful thing we can all do.

You probably have never thought of this, but women's shelters in the U.S. go through thousands of tampons and pads monthly. Assistance agencies generally help with expenses of "everyday" necessities such as toilet paper, diapers, and clothing, but one of the most BASIC needs is overlooked - feminine hygiene products. (Who is at the helm of the funding assistance agencies anyway!?)

Seventh Generation, a green paper products and cleaning products company, has a do-good attitude and will donate a box of sanitary products to a women's shelter in your chosen state - just for clicking the link. Talk about easy (literally takes less than 1 minute and they ask nothing of you). And, yes, it is legitimate!

http://www.tampontification.com/donate.php

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Rosebuds
Breast Cancer Support Group Meeting
Tuesday evening, March 6, 2007
5:45 - 7:30 pm

PAINT THE rodeo PINK!FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 6, 2007 — Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ officials are encouraging Houstonians and visitors alike to “Paint the Rodeo Pink!” Wednesday, March 7, in support of Breast Cancer Awareness. Sheryl Crow is performing that day after having to cancel in 2006 due to breast cancer surgery.

Breast Cancer Awareness materials will be available at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, provided by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Houston Affiliate, a global leader in the fight against breast cancer through its support of innovative research and community-based outreach programs.

Tickets are still available for the Wednesday, March 7, performance.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo runs now through March 18. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster outlets, including Reliant Park, by phone at 800.726.1313, and online at www.rodeohouston.com.

Rosebuds II Meeting
Thursday evening, March 8, 2007
5:45 - 7:30 pm

SHOP for a CAUSE
Macy's has again selected The Rose to participate in their SHOP for a CAUSE campaign, on Saturday, March 17th from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. By making a $5 donation to The Rose, participants will receive an all-day 20% or 15% off shopping pass, $10 off a $20 purchase or more coupon, and a chance to win a $500 shopping spree. The passes are good at ANY MACY'S. There are 1,500 passes available. If you are interested in helping, please contact Kristi Brown, Special Events Coordinator
The Rose- 12700 N. Featherwood, Ste. 260, Houston, TX 77034
(281) 464-5142 direct
(281) 464-2743 fax
www.the-rose.org

The Alice Thomsen Lymphedema Awareness Group of Houston
Meetings are scheduled on the 3rd Tuesday of every other month at the American cancer Society Building,6301 Richmond (between Hillcroft and Fountainview) at 7:00pm. The 2007 dates are March 20th, May 15th, July 17th, September 18 and November 20th.
For further information call 281-546-6438.

Pink Lemonade Guild Plate Painting
Pink Ribbons Project
Guild members and family only
Sunday, March 25, 3:00-5:00pm
PICNIK Restaurant, 1928 Bissonnet

"Brushes with Greatness"
The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
teams up with Saks Fifth Avenue, April 12, 2007 6:30-8:30pm
Ticket Price $25.00* For more info: bsmp@mdanderson.org
(Guests will receive $25 gift card to be used for cosmetics)
*A percentage of sales will benefit the
Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivor's Program
at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

Susan's Rally Golf Tournament
in the fight against breast cancer
Monday, April 16 281-480-7744
3820 San Jacinto, Houston TX 77004
www.susanrally.org

Susan's Rally
Sunday, April 29
For info: 713-526-2747
www.susanrally.org

The National Breast Cancer Coalition/Fund
2007 Annual Advocacy Training Conference(NBCC)
"Beyond Ribbons to Revolution"
April 28 - May 1, 2007
Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington, VA
703-418-1234
Conference Contact: The Event Professionals
Email:nbccinfo@theeventpros.net 678-502-1454

The 2nd Annual Cancer Patient & Caregiver Conference
Friday, May 4, 2007. Registration:9:00am
Program begins at 9:30am-2:30pm.
Dr Michael Keating from MD Anderson will be the keynote speaker.
Location: United Way Building 50 Waugh Drive.
To Register: 713-520-9873 Contact Person: Elizabeth Wilson
www.cancercouseling.info
4101 Greenbriar, Ste 317, Houston, TX 77098.

Walk to Empower
3-Mile walk, Sunday, May 13, 2007
MacGregor Park, Houston, Tx 9:00am
Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization
No Fee Register online at www.y-me.org

"The Faces behind Breast Cancer" Launch Party
Save the date, Sunday August 26, at 1:00 pm.
Details will be announced in future posts.

Living Fully
M.D. Anderson Annual Conference
September 6-8 2007
Marriott Westchase - Houston, Texas
Additional information is not available at this time.

Tour De Pink 2007
Pink Ribbons Project
September 9, 2007
at Prairie View A&M University
www.tourdepink.org
Additional info in future posts.

Play time is over. As always, I encourage you to pass along your stories, comments and events to The Pink Crusader, and look forward to hearing from you.

"Happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory."

-Albert Schweitzer

Until next week, stay strong, stay well, and keep on dancing (and doing cartwheels in the snow)!

Love, Josie
The Pink Crusader
thepinkcrusader1@aol.com