A RECORD BREAKER

We're quite proud of ourselves today.  We broke a COMPASSIONATE HANDS AND HEARTS record on Saturday, April 13, 2013.  We had an outreach for FIVE, yes FIVE breast cancer warriors.  

They are all in different phases of the journey.  They're either just beginning the battle, right in the thick of it or in it for the second time.  

We're constantly amazed at what happens when we bring together a group of breast cancer patients who don't know each other.  They come to us shy, sometimes uncertain and often apprehensive about what's in store.  But it doesn't take them long to realize they have so much in common.  They have similar experiences and feelings.  And they speak the same language:  breast cancer patient medical speak.  

Our gatherings are always mixed with the right amount of tears, laughter and encouragement.  We are blessed to be able to provide substantial financial assistance for these breast cancer warriors.  That's important.  But sometimes the best medicine for them is just to know that someone cares.  That's important too.

Fight on Wanda, Fredda, Blanca, Jennifer and Tami !  We love you !

AND WE'RE OFF !

I was thinking the other day that I've been too busy to blog.  In this case, that's a good thing because it means COMPASSIONATE HANDS AND HEARTS is busy fulfilling its mission.  

     But every now and then, we encounter situations that break out hearts.  One of our clients has postponed treatment because her husband doesn't want her to have a mastectomy.  I still don't understand that.  Women feel forced to choose between their husband and their lives.  Seems like an easy choice for some, for others, it is not.

     Not sure how we can help these women.  Part of me wants to hit them over the head and ask, "Are you crazy?"  The other half just wants to wrap my arms around them, even though I don't have the words to say.

     Heartbreaking.  

Vanessa Echols

FOUNDER

MAKING OUR MISSION HER OWN

It's always so rewarding for us to see how people and other organizations embrace our mission.  One of our dedicated volunteers has truly made our mission her own.
     Karen Wise is a local and outstanding seamstress.  So a few months ago, she decided to make pj lounging pants for our clients.  And what a great blessing it has been to them and to us.  Karen shows up at our outreaches with her tape measure around her neck and goes to work !  The reaction from the clients is always rather amusing since some of them swear us to secrecy about their measurements.  LOL.
     It truly is a labor of love and Karen does a beautiful job.
     But one of the more interesting aspects is how she comes up with the money for the material.  But perhaps that's a story for another day, if she'll allow us to tell it.  It is quite hilarious !

HOW IN THE WORLD DID WE DO IT?

      I think that's the question we were asking ourselves after our marathon fundraising weekend.  We are SO grateful to the organizations and individuals who supported us with fundraisers during the month of October.
      One weekend was a particular interesting one.  We started the day with Cut For The Cure at Ravin Hair in St. Cloud, FL.  The stylists there donated their proceeds for the day and there were plenty of other activities and fun events for the day.  Then, there was a car show in Sanford, FL with proceeds donated to us.  After that, a Breast Cancer Awareness luncheon sponsored by the Delta Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in Orlando, with more proceeds for us.  The day ended with a mother/ daughter fashion show fundraiser for us in Lake Mary.   Whew.   And it all went off without a hitch.
     We are thankful for all who believe in our mission to give back 100% of our donations to LOCAL families walking the breast cancer journey.

PINK PARTY

You're invited to join us Friday, October 12 for a Pink Party at BRIGHTON COLLECTIBLES at the Altamonte Mall.  Party time is 4:00.  You'll have a chance to win a BRIGHTON gift card, EDEN SPA gift certificate or a pink basket of surprises.  You'll also see BRIGHTON's 2012 Breast Cancer Awareness jewelry.  And don't forget, the ALTAMONTE store is donating a portion of the proceeds to COMPASSIONATE HANDS AND HEARTS. Hope to see you there!

THANKS BRIGHTON ALTAMONTE MALL

Special thanks to BRIGHTON COLLECTIBLES in the Altamonte Mall.  The store will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the breast cancer awareness collection to COMPASSIONATE HANDS AND HEARTS during the month of October.  
    We had a wonderful kick-off breakfast this morning.  Thanks to all who came out to support us.

    The 2012 Breast Cancer Awareness bracelet is stunning !  
    Be sure to look for us in the Altamonte store throughout the month of October.  

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO US !

COMPASSIONATE HANDS AND HEARTS is celebrating its 5th Anniversary.  WOW.
It's been an incredible journey.  We started with one gift card, a gift bag and one meal for our first client.  Now because of such faithful and generous donors, we're able to provide financial help for utilities and mortgages, along with gift cards, gift bags and many other services.
     And we've been blessed with the opportunity to meet some truly incredible breast cancer warriors and their families.
     We'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported us over the past 5 years, with your financial donations, in-kind services, prayers and heavy lifting when needed.