Hello all! It's me...Megan the "chick who always goes on and on about pediatric cancer" again. You can tell that I sometimes feel as though I should avoid talking with you all about depressing, cancer issues. But alas, I can't. This is a huge part of the purpose for this little blog of mine.
Today I received a solicitation from St Jude's hospital in the mail. You know the ones...you get a great sheet of return address labels along with a plea for a donation? The Megan of a few years ago would have taken those labels and thrown away the rest. Today I actually read it. I know St. Jude is very involved with pediatric cancer treatment and research. They included a chart that compared 5-year survival rates for several different types of pediatric cancer. The chart compared survival rates from 1962 to present day. It was shocking to see how low survival rates were for children only 50 years ago...as low as 4%.
The encouraging news was just how much survival rates have increased in the last 5 decades. For example Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia had a 5-year survival rate of only 4% in 1962 and now...the survival rate is 94%!!! Earlier detection, better screening tests, and improved treatment options have all impacted survival rates in amazing ways! Of the 10 types of childhood cancer listed, 6 of them have survival rates of greater than 85%.
The bad news is that Neuroblastoma had the lowest survival rate of all the types of cancer listed. The 5 year survival rate for children with Neuroblastoma is a dreadful 55%. I was shocked to see how much lower the survival rate was for NB than Leukemia, Lymphoma, and other cancers of the eye, kidneys, and bone. I have to say that I instantly thought of 10 or so children I know of with NB, and yes, only about half of them are still alive. This statistic is scary...
I think why this statistic is so shocking to me is because Neuroblastoma is a relatively new word in my vocabulary. I bet if I was to ask you how many of you had heard of NB before Brady, many of you would join me in saying you hadn't ever heard that word. And this is precisely why I need to continue to speak out about this disease...raise awareness...educate parents about warning signs...raise research money...and support families fighting this disease. I understand that research money for NB is low because kids are diagnosed with other types of cancer in greater numbers, but that certainly doesn't minimize the impact that this disease has on the 700 children who are diagnosed each year. I need to keep talking about it.
I'm really excited about being asked to participate in the Alex's Lemondade Stand Foundation's Hero Ambassador Program. In a few weeks I will be participating in a webinar (certainly the most high tech thing I've ever done) that will train me in how to represent the Foundation by speaking at local events and working with children in schools to understand what pediatric cancer is. I'm really excited to participate in this opportunity and help the ALSF in their quest to beat pediatric cancer.
And one more thing...You may remember our wildly successful Alex's Lemonade Stand that we hosted last September?!?! It was a lot of fun and we raised $2,500 for research money! Sadly this year, our local Labor Day festival has been cancelled and I have been thinking about other possible venues. I received a letter that there is a smaller-scale community celebration being planned for Labor Day and our stand was invited to take part. Of course this will only be a one-day event, and therefore make less money, but I'm considering how to best become involved. If anyone is interested in helping me organize a Labor Day Stand, or if you have ideas you are willing to share, please email me mwilliams91@rochester.rr.com
If you are still reading (despite the lack of cute-kid-pictures in today's post), thank you! Your support means the world!
Showing posts with label Alex's Lemonade Stand. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alex's Lemonade Stand. Show all posts
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Thursday, February 4, 2010
What We Were up to Today
The Williams family fire squad was hard at work…
Everybody HUG!
This one makes mommy’s heart melt!
No more pictures mom!
Our old house has some interesting architecture. I loved the way the kids looked sitting against the front door framed by the archway…
And I just had to snap a picture of this today. Something about the sight of four kids’ plates lined up makes me the happiest momma around!
If you want to read something inspiring today, click here to read what the Liz and Jay Scott of Alex’s Lemonade Stand have been up to.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Some of you have commented or emailed me asking about Kyler Van Nocker. His story is spreading like wildfire across the country. You can click here to read an article with recent updates. I was especially touched by the quote from Jay Scott, Alex Scott's father from Alex's Lemonade Stand. He spoke about how MIBG therapy, the therapy that the Van Nockers are seeking insurance coverage for, gave Alex 4 to 5 more years on this earth. In those years she came up with the idea of having a lemonade stand to raise money for pediatric cancer research. Just think about the imapct of that precious time in her life.
I again want to thank all of you who reached out to send this family $1 to help raise funds for MIBG therapy for Kyler. :)
I again want to thank all of you who reached out to send this family $1 to help raise funds for MIBG therapy for Kyler. :)
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Always an Adventure!
Today is officially Pediatric Cancer Awareness Day! In honor of this day, I wanted to share a link with you. If you CLICK HERE you can read all about the research grants funded by the Alex's Lemonade Foundation. I mailed our big donation check yesterday for...drum roll please...$2,700.48! Honestly, God was all over this project and blessed us beyond our highest hopes! Our goal was $1,000 and we had that before the end of day 1!!! On the website from the Foundation, they have a "fun fact" that says a donation of $2,000 will fund a research project for a week! I wonder which week we all will be funding soon...I wonder what developments will be made that week???
It's been a while since I have had a "ready to bang my head against a wall medical story" to share with all of you! Today is your lucky day my friends:) It all starts with me picking up fish fries for dinner last night. And they were delicious!! As we cleaned up after dinner we noticed Cara had a little rash around her chin and forehead areas. As the night went on it seemed a little worse, but not terrible. During the night she was up a lot, just crying and restless. By morning, her whole face was puffy and covered in a red, spotty, blotchy rash. She was really overtired and irritable all morning. I had Matt pick up some Benadryl on his way home from work this morning. She barely took a nap, and by 2:30pm was just inconsolable. The rash covered her tummy, back, neck, and her face. She was itching like crazy and I knew she must have had a reaction to the fish.
I called our pediatrician who told me not to take her to the ER unless she was having trouble breathing or scratching so hard that she bled. I just love advice like that. In those situations, I think to myself, "Oh yes, I will just sit here and wait until she can't breathe, or until she is bleeding...sounds like a plan." We decided I would take her to one of those Urgent Care places in Buffalo. On the way I called the insurance company and they assured me they covered Urgent Care for only a $20 copay (versus $100 ER). After a 40 minute drive, and a 20 minute wait, the triage person at the clinic told me that they don't accept my insurance because they are privately owned. She told me that another facility 10 minutes away would take my insurance. So, back in the car we went. We signed in, waited 10 minutes, got called up to the desk, and were told that our insurance was not accepted here either. With an itchy girl at my side, I looked at the lady in tears...she told me that there is another place, about 10 minutes away that takes our insurance. Instead of going totally postal (believe me,I was really close) I politely told her that I wasn't leaving until they called the other place to make sure we would be seen. She was very nice, and called and even got me an appointment for 20 minutes later.
Back in the car we went...only a 15 minute car ride, and 20 minute wait later, and we had a doctor standing in front of us!!! He quickly confirmed that she had a pretty bad reaction to some kind of food. By this point the rash was covering her entire body and she was quite swollen. He checked her tongue and breathing, which were fine. He explained that even though she had eated fish before without any problem, it was quite possible that she is now allergic to it. He prescribed some Prednisone and told us that we needed to follow up with our doctor and pursue allergy testing. Another 50 minute car ride and stop at the pharmacy later, and we were home, just in time for bed. I love when a 10 minute doctor's visit takes an hour and a half in the car, 3 different clinics, and 4 hours of my time:) I will tell you that I had the cutest, most well-behaved, rashy little girl on Earth with me the whole time. I love her SO much!
I will add *allergist* to my list of October appointments including Brady's cancer scans, Cara's eye surgery, Brady's spinal specialist, and Allie's spot on her leg being removed!
It's been a while since I have had a "ready to bang my head against a wall medical story" to share with all of you! Today is your lucky day my friends:) It all starts with me picking up fish fries for dinner last night. And they were delicious!! As we cleaned up after dinner we noticed Cara had a little rash around her chin and forehead areas. As the night went on it seemed a little worse, but not terrible. During the night she was up a lot, just crying and restless. By morning, her whole face was puffy and covered in a red, spotty, blotchy rash. She was really overtired and irritable all morning. I had Matt pick up some Benadryl on his way home from work this morning. She barely took a nap, and by 2:30pm was just inconsolable. The rash covered her tummy, back, neck, and her face. She was itching like crazy and I knew she must have had a reaction to the fish.
I called our pediatrician who told me not to take her to the ER unless she was having trouble breathing or scratching so hard that she bled. I just love advice like that. In those situations, I think to myself, "Oh yes, I will just sit here and wait until she can't breathe, or until she is bleeding...sounds like a plan." We decided I would take her to one of those Urgent Care places in Buffalo. On the way I called the insurance company and they assured me they covered Urgent Care for only a $20 copay (versus $100 ER). After a 40 minute drive, and a 20 minute wait, the triage person at the clinic told me that they don't accept my insurance because they are privately owned. She told me that another facility 10 minutes away would take my insurance. So, back in the car we went. We signed in, waited 10 minutes, got called up to the desk, and were told that our insurance was not accepted here either. With an itchy girl at my side, I looked at the lady in tears...she told me that there is another place, about 10 minutes away that takes our insurance. Instead of going totally postal (believe me,I was really close) I politely told her that I wasn't leaving until they called the other place to make sure we would be seen. She was very nice, and called and even got me an appointment for 20 minutes later.
Back in the car we went...only a 15 minute car ride, and 20 minute wait later, and we had a doctor standing in front of us!!! He quickly confirmed that she had a pretty bad reaction to some kind of food. By this point the rash was covering her entire body and she was quite swollen. He checked her tongue and breathing, which were fine. He explained that even though she had eated fish before without any problem, it was quite possible that she is now allergic to it. He prescribed some Prednisone and told us that we needed to follow up with our doctor and pursue allergy testing. Another 50 minute car ride and stop at the pharmacy later, and we were home, just in time for bed. I love when a 10 minute doctor's visit takes an hour and a half in the car, 3 different clinics, and 4 hours of my time:) I will tell you that I had the cutest, most well-behaved, rashy little girl on Earth with me the whole time. I love her SO much!
I will add *allergist* to my list of October appointments including Brady's cancer scans, Cara's eye surgery, Brady's spinal specialist, and Allie's spot on her leg being removed!
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Feeling Sappy Tonight...
So, it is back to school week for many. I have officially been home on maternity leave for 2 years and 7 months. I get a little nostalgic this time of year, in my own little way I miss the excitement of a new school year. In my former life I was a teacher like many of my friends and although I was always sad to see summer go, I looked forward to the challenge of new groups of students every September. I find myself very conflicted lately, like many stay at home moms. Certainly I know I'm doing the most important job of all as I'm home raising my young children. But I know that change is on the horizon...This is my last year of maternity leave if I want to retain a position with the school district that I worked in. So, in a few short months I have to make very big decisions about the future. So many aspects of life weigh into this decision that it makes my head hurt just to think about it. I sometimes focus so much on the decision that I have to make for next year, that I forget that life will be changing yet again in a few years. My kids are growing up at a pace that I never thought existed. As I watch their legs hang down from their highchairs I realize that the baby days have slipped by with barely enough time to savor them. I think that is why God sent Allie to our family. I hang on every coo, every raspberry she blows, every bedtime snuggle...Motherhood happened so fast for me, 4 babies in just 19 months, and now I realize that as quickly as it came, it is leaving. And in 2 short years, my big kids will be off to preschool and the next year Allie will be going. And by that time I'll for sure be back at work full time, away from my kids for long periods of time everyday. Just the thought makes me want to run into their room right now, pick them up, and never let them go!
I guess the reason I'm so sappy tonight is because I feel so busy lately, even though I'm not working outside of my house! So, so, so, incredibly busy that I can't even imagine adding a career to this crazy life of mine. I could give up a lot of the "extras" in my life, but I don't want that either! On I go then, depending on prayer and coffee to get me through these crazy days. I tell you all this just because it feels good to let it out, and maybe there is someone reading who can relate and not feel so alone in their own crazy busy world! We're all in this together!
Cara and I went to Rochester today for her appointment with the eye specialist. He has suggested that she have surgery to correct the muscle imbalance in her eyes that is causing her head tilt. It is a simple surgery (well I don't think cutting into some one's eyeball is simple!!) and although it requires anesthesia, she should be out in less than 20 minutes. He will basically be cutting a muscle in her eye, weakening it, so that it will "match" the weak muscle in her other eye. I've seen a lot of medical procedures in my days, but this one creeps me out the most by far!!! Surgery will be Monday October 5th.
Saturday is Pediatric Cancer Awareness Day. In honor of this day, and in honor of our brave cancer warrior, Matt and I will be going to the Ronald Mc Donald House in Rochester to drop off all of the food items that we collected at the Brady Bash. We decided not to bring the kids because the 6 of us plus all of the donated items would not fit in the van together! I will take pictures for sure! I will also be sending our check to the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation this week.
I almost forgot! Here is a cancer fact for today: For every six research dollars per patient with AIDS and every one research dollar per patient with breast cancer, a child with cancer receives 30 cents.
And a few more pictures of our weekend
Mickey and Minnie say hi!
My brother and niece Aubrey (could she being any cuter?)
Matt and I working at the stand Monday
I guess the reason I'm so sappy tonight is because I feel so busy lately, even though I'm not working outside of my house! So, so, so, incredibly busy that I can't even imagine adding a career to this crazy life of mine. I could give up a lot of the "extras" in my life, but I don't want that either! On I go then, depending on prayer and coffee to get me through these crazy days. I tell you all this just because it feels good to let it out, and maybe there is someone reading who can relate and not feel so alone in their own crazy busy world! We're all in this together!
Cara and I went to Rochester today for her appointment with the eye specialist. He has suggested that she have surgery to correct the muscle imbalance in her eyes that is causing her head tilt. It is a simple surgery (well I don't think cutting into some one's eyeball is simple!!) and although it requires anesthesia, she should be out in less than 20 minutes. He will basically be cutting a muscle in her eye, weakening it, so that it will "match" the weak muscle in her other eye. I've seen a lot of medical procedures in my days, but this one creeps me out the most by far!!! Surgery will be Monday October 5th.
Saturday is Pediatric Cancer Awareness Day. In honor of this day, and in honor of our brave cancer warrior, Matt and I will be going to the Ronald Mc Donald House in Rochester to drop off all of the food items that we collected at the Brady Bash. We decided not to bring the kids because the 6 of us plus all of the donated items would not fit in the van together! I will take pictures for sure! I will also be sending our check to the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation this week.
I almost forgot! Here is a cancer fact for today: For every six research dollars per patient with AIDS and every one research dollar per patient with breast cancer, a child with cancer receives 30 cents.
And a few more pictures of our weekend
Mickey and Minnie say hi!
My brother and niece Aubrey (could she being any cuter?)
Matt and I working at the stand Monday
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
And Still More Labor Daze Pictures
Getting ready for the parade!
Cara clapping to the beat of the marching band
Brady giving Minnie Mouse a high five!
Eli loved the big drums (well, those and the fire engines, police car, tractors...)
Allie enjoyed a snack while she watched the parade march by
Grandma holding Brady up next to his name on the sign at our stand
More pictures tomorrow...mom is bringing her camera card over!
I had the chance to meet Robin Walters while working at the stand Monday night. She is the new PR person for a local outreach ministry called Care-A-Van. She wrote an article about our stand and you can read it here
In case you think I've forgotten about my cancer facts, I haven't! Remember, September is pediatric cancer awareness month. Our goal is not only to raise money for this cause, but to raise public awareness about childhood cancer.
Today's cancer fact:Neuroblastoma is a solid, malignant tumor which manifests as a lump or mass in the abdomen or around the spinal cord.
Please be praying for Cara and I tomorrow as we head to appointment #2 with the new eye specialist. Her head tilting continues to be a problem when looking at things in the distance. Thank you for your prayers:)
Cara clapping to the beat of the marching band
Brady giving Minnie Mouse a high five!
Eli loved the big drums (well, those and the fire engines, police car, tractors...)
Allie enjoyed a snack while she watched the parade march by
Grandma holding Brady up next to his name on the sign at our stand
More pictures tomorrow...mom is bringing her camera card over!
I had the chance to meet Robin Walters while working at the stand Monday night. She is the new PR person for a local outreach ministry called Care-A-Van. She wrote an article about our stand and you can read it here
In case you think I've forgotten about my cancer facts, I haven't! Remember, September is pediatric cancer awareness month. Our goal is not only to raise money for this cause, but to raise public awareness about childhood cancer.
Today's cancer fact:Neuroblastoma is a solid, malignant tumor which manifests as a lump or mass in the abdomen or around the spinal cord.
Please be praying for Cara and I tomorrow as we head to appointment #2 with the new eye specialist. Her head tilting continues to be a problem when looking at things in the distance. Thank you for your prayers:)
Monday, September 7, 2009
1260 Cups of Lemonade!
That's right! We sold 1260 cups of lemonade in 3 days! All of our baked goods sold out by the end of today too! Here is a breakdown of our donation:
Stand Profits: $1,624
Donations by mail: $185
Online Donations: $400
_________________________
Grand Total: $2,209
Matt and I are going to make it an even $2,500 and we couldn't be more thrilled to give this money to the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation!
There are so many people to thank...
If you volunteered your time to work at the stand...THANK YOU!
If you volunteered your time to bake something....THANK YOU!
If you donated supplies to our stand...THANK YOU!
If you bought something at our stand...THANK YOU!
If you stopped by just to tell us that you had prayed for Brady...THANK YOU!
If you came by just to make a donation and didn't even want to buy anything...THANK YOU!
This weekend was just another example of our wonderful community coming together to show their love and support. This time it wasn't just about Brady, it was about children we don't know, children we won't ever meet. I know that this money will be used for good, I know that a child's life with cancer will be better because of all of you....so THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart:)
I promise to share pictures tomorrow!!!
Stand Profits: $1,624
Donations by mail: $185
Online Donations: $400
_________________________
Grand Total: $2,209
Matt and I are going to make it an even $2,500 and we couldn't be more thrilled to give this money to the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation!
There are so many people to thank...
If you volunteered your time to work at the stand...THANK YOU!
If you volunteered your time to bake something....THANK YOU!
If you donated supplies to our stand...THANK YOU!
If you bought something at our stand...THANK YOU!
If you stopped by just to tell us that you had prayed for Brady...THANK YOU!
If you came by just to make a donation and didn't even want to buy anything...THANK YOU!
This weekend was just another example of our wonderful community coming together to show their love and support. This time it wasn't just about Brady, it was about children we don't know, children we won't ever meet. I know that this money will be used for good, I know that a child's life with cancer will be better because of all of you....so THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart:)
I promise to share pictures tomorrow!!!
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Lemonade Stand Day #2
Hi all! It was another great day at the lemonade stand! Weather just doesn't get much better than today...it was great lemonade weather!!!
I really the think that the stand is a huge success! Many people from the community are stopping by to make donations, big and small, and I've shared our story with several people who didn't know about Brady. I've been touched by several stories shared with me too. There are so many people in our world affected by cancer, that's for sure!
We sold out of all baked goods except for two plates. However when I got home Matt "found" a box of things that he had moved to the basement. Several of my relatives realized that we were low on baked goods and offered to bake tonight:)
Big news!!! We have made $800 in our first two days!!! We are so thrilled at the support of our community and can't wait to send the check off to the foundation. Combined with the online money, this means we have already exceeded our goal of $1,000!!! God is good:)
Here are a few pictures from the last two days...
Our stand
One day to go! Tomorrow is Matt's birthday!!! Happy birthday honey!!!
I really the think that the stand is a huge success! Many people from the community are stopping by to make donations, big and small, and I've shared our story with several people who didn't know about Brady. I've been touched by several stories shared with me too. There are so many people in our world affected by cancer, that's for sure!
We sold out of all baked goods except for two plates. However when I got home Matt "found" a box of things that he had moved to the basement. Several of my relatives realized that we were low on baked goods and offered to bake tonight:)
Big news!!! We have made $800 in our first two days!!! We are so thrilled at the support of our community and can't wait to send the check off to the foundation. Combined with the online money, this means we have already exceeded our goal of $1,000!!! God is good:)
Here are a few pictures from the last two days...
Our stand
One day to go! Tomorrow is Matt's birthday!!! Happy birthday honey!!!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Lemonade Stand Day 1!
I'm a tired girl tonight folks, I'll keep this short. I decided to open up tonight and after dropping a 20lb bag of ice on my toes, I got the stand up and running. Thanks to my hubby, my bro, and my mom for all of their help today setting up and keeping things going. And thank you to everyone for dropping off their baked items today! Everything looked delicious:) I just brought up a few baked goods and those sold pretty well. All in all we made about $175. Not too bad considering it was the first night and there weren't too many people there. I took some pictures of the stand and promise I will share them later in the weekend. For now, I'm off to get some zzzzzzs!
Friday, September 4, 2009
Lemon Things Everywhere!
Tomorrow is set up day! My kitchen is already filling up with lemon baked goods and I didn't know it would be this hard to resist sampling a few:) I'm going to be a total sap tonight and tell you I have been weepy today just thinking about what we are doing. It is just a simple lemonade/bake sale, but in my heart it means SO much more. I can't help but think of Alex Scott, the little girl who came up with the idea of selling lemonade to raise money for cancer research. I think of her and all of the other children who have lost their lives to cancer. My thoughts are also on those fighting this disease right now...kids who are far away from home, enduring unthinkable treatments, unable to start school next week like their peers. And I sadly think of the children who someday soon will be diagnosed with cancer. Oh how my heart breaks to think of them...
So, what can we do? There is that saying by Mother Theresa about how we all can't do great things in our lives, but we can do small things with great love. In the scheme of life, a lemonade stand with some cupcakes and cookies I guess is a small thing. But I know that there is GREAT LOVE being poured into this project by our family and from everyone who is donating and volunteering. And I want to thank you for showing your great love to this worthy cause. THANK YOU!!!
Okay, just one more piece of sappy/sad stuff I promise!
Cancer fact #4 The causes of most childhood cancers are unknown. At present, childhood cancer cannot be prevented.
Today brought some normalcy back to our house (well, relatively speaking!) The kids all seem to be healthy again, appetites are back, no fevers to be found. I'm holding my breath that it is all behind us and we can fully enjoy the weekend ahead! Brady has started this new love affair with his blankie since being sick. He wants to drag that blanket around all day, and he just snuggles it and says, "My blankie! I love it!" That boy is the best...
I'm thinking of possibly opening the stand tomorrow night during the battle of the bands. If everything goes well with set up and things with the kids are okay tomorrow, then I think I will. We are right near the stage, so I think people might like having some lemonade and dessert while enjoying the performances! Stop by and see us if you are there!
So, what can we do? There is that saying by Mother Theresa about how we all can't do great things in our lives, but we can do small things with great love. In the scheme of life, a lemonade stand with some cupcakes and cookies I guess is a small thing. But I know that there is GREAT LOVE being poured into this project by our family and from everyone who is donating and volunteering. And I want to thank you for showing your great love to this worthy cause. THANK YOU!!!
Okay, just one more piece of sappy/sad stuff I promise!
Cancer fact #4 The causes of most childhood cancers are unknown. At present, childhood cancer cannot be prevented.
Today brought some normalcy back to our house (well, relatively speaking!) The kids all seem to be healthy again, appetites are back, no fevers to be found. I'm holding my breath that it is all behind us and we can fully enjoy the weekend ahead! Brady has started this new love affair with his blankie since being sick. He wants to drag that blanket around all day, and he just snuggles it and says, "My blankie! I love it!" That boy is the best...
I'm thinking of possibly opening the stand tomorrow night during the battle of the bands. If everything goes well with set up and things with the kids are okay tomorrow, then I think I will. We are right near the stage, so I think people might like having some lemonade and dessert while enjoying the performances! Stop by and see us if you are there!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
And Then There Were 3...
So, the virus among us took down two more today. While Eli is feeling great today, Brady and Cara both awoke with raging fevers this morning. It seemed they were on the verge of throwing up all day, but they never did. They were just very lethargic, little appetite, and had high temps all day. I haven't sat around this much in years! Most of my day was spent holding a hot child on my lap watching cartoons. My poor babies...I could tell that they felt terrible! Thank goodness my mother in law was here...she was a tremendous help while I had snuggle duty.
Sadly I had plans to go for a pedicure and out to dinner with friends that I had to cancel. I was bummed, but knew I was were I needed to be. I'm a little behind now on Lemonade Stand stuff, but hopefully I can catch up!
ATTENTION ALL VOLUNTEERS! I found out today that our stand while be IN the Triangle Park. If you are looking at the gazebo steps, we will be on the left side of it. I have never ever seen a booth there before, but apparently there is only one performing stage this year, so they are moving things around a bit. At first I was disappointed to not be with the other food booths, but maybe we will get a lot of customers who are watching the entertainment.
I want to thank those who are sending donations and those who are donating online! I'm touched beyond belief at your kindness. Remember that 100% of money donated will go directly to the foundation which funds research grants aimed at improving treatments for children with pediatric cancer. I think I should replace the words "children with pediatric cancer" to "children just like Brady." Our fundraising goal for this project was $1,000...we have already raised $535!!! Couldn't be more thankful...
Cancer Fact #3 Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children under the age of 15 in the United States.
Please be praying that the kids will feel better for this weekend and that Matt and I will be healthy so that we can get the stand up and going. Be praying that we will be able to share Brady's story with someone and be able to witness about God's grace and provision during life's trials. It is awesome to think of what one little lemonade stand could do!!!
Sadly I had plans to go for a pedicure and out to dinner with friends that I had to cancel. I was bummed, but knew I was were I needed to be. I'm a little behind now on Lemonade Stand stuff, but hopefully I can catch up!
ATTENTION ALL VOLUNTEERS! I found out today that our stand while be IN the Triangle Park. If you are looking at the gazebo steps, we will be on the left side of it. I have never ever seen a booth there before, but apparently there is only one performing stage this year, so they are moving things around a bit. At first I was disappointed to not be with the other food booths, but maybe we will get a lot of customers who are watching the entertainment.
I want to thank those who are sending donations and those who are donating online! I'm touched beyond belief at your kindness. Remember that 100% of money donated will go directly to the foundation which funds research grants aimed at improving treatments for children with pediatric cancer. I think I should replace the words "children with pediatric cancer" to "children just like Brady." Our fundraising goal for this project was $1,000...we have already raised $535!!! Couldn't be more thankful...
Cancer Fact #3 Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children under the age of 15 in the United States.
Please be praying that the kids will feel better for this weekend and that Matt and I will be healthy so that we can get the stand up and going. Be praying that we will be able to share Brady's story with someone and be able to witness about God's grace and provision during life's trials. It is awesome to think of what one little lemonade stand could do!!!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
4 More Days!
This weather! Isn't it just the best? It seems as though sunny skies will be sticking around through Labor Day...YAHOOOO!!
I wanted to take the time to acknowledge some wonderful people who have sponsored our lemonade stand in some way. First of all, my friends Rachael and Rosalie who each donated a big dispenser for the lemonade...thank you girls:) Rachael also sponsored a few odds and ends for the stand, like helium for balloons and the cups! Culligan Water Systems in Akron is our water sponsor and we couldn't do the stand without their amazing, reverse-osmosis water (did I say that right Grandpa?) THANK YOU CULLIGAN!!! Thank you to Joe Capan from Signmatic in Akron who has donated an awesome sign for our stand! We will be able to use it over and over again---it is wonderful!! Thank you to ZipTor Monogramming in Batavia who today offered to embroider the aprons for us!!! Of course we couldn't do any of this without our wonderful volunteer workers and bakers!!! I LOVE our community!!!
Here is my #2 fact about pediatric cancer (then I promise I'll move onto some pictures!)
On average, one in every 4 elementary schools has a child with pediatric cancer.
I'm pleased to report that so far we have no more illness in the house. Oh how I pray that that bug left us as quickly as it came! The kids had playgroup this morning, which grandma took them to and of course she ventured solo into Wendy's (at lunchtime!!!) I had some awesome one on one time with Allie...
And later tonight, enjoying some ice cream
I wanted to take the time to acknowledge some wonderful people who have sponsored our lemonade stand in some way. First of all, my friends Rachael and Rosalie who each donated a big dispenser for the lemonade...thank you girls:) Rachael also sponsored a few odds and ends for the stand, like helium for balloons and the cups! Culligan Water Systems in Akron is our water sponsor and we couldn't do the stand without their amazing, reverse-osmosis water (did I say that right Grandpa?) THANK YOU CULLIGAN!!! Thank you to Joe Capan from Signmatic in Akron who has donated an awesome sign for our stand! We will be able to use it over and over again---it is wonderful!! Thank you to ZipTor Monogramming in Batavia who today offered to embroider the aprons for us!!! Of course we couldn't do any of this without our wonderful volunteer workers and bakers!!! I LOVE our community!!!
Here is my #2 fact about pediatric cancer (then I promise I'll move onto some pictures!)
On average, one in every 4 elementary schools has a child with pediatric cancer.
I'm pleased to report that so far we have no more illness in the house. Oh how I pray that that bug left us as quickly as it came! The kids had playgroup this morning, which grandma took them to and of course she ventured solo into Wendy's (at lunchtime!!!) I had some awesome one on one time with Allie...
And later tonight, enjoying some ice cream
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
6 Days Until Our First Lemonade Stand!
Our little Eli seems to be on the mend. No more throw ups today, although he barely ate much of anything (MnMs for lunch and bacon for dinner:) I let them eat whatever sounds good when they are sick! No signs of anyone else coming down with it...yet.
Only six days left until our first official Alex's Lemonade Stand. Today I printed off a bunch of things I needed for the stand. I picked up aprons yesterday and if I have time, I want to try and get them embroidered. We have 17 people baking for us...isn't that awesome? For many, it is the first week back to school and I appreciate so much that people are willing to give of their "final week of summer."
Did you know that September is pediatric cancer awareness month? Now you do! I'm going to try and give you a fact about pediatric cancer every day this month. I'm not doing this to scare you or depress you. I'm doing this because awareness is a vital part of early detection and a huge part of fundraising for research money.
Fact #1 On the average, 36 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer everyday in the United States.
Now onto some pictures. Matt got an amazing new camera from his parents for his birthday (by the way---his birthday is Labor Day!) I'm having SO much fun learning how to use it. I couldn't have better subjects to take pictures of. Well I guess they could stand still a little better, and perhaps all smile at the same time...
Eli Matthew
Cara Kathleen
Brady Andrew
Allison Elizabeth
Only six days left until our first official Alex's Lemonade Stand. Today I printed off a bunch of things I needed for the stand. I picked up aprons yesterday and if I have time, I want to try and get them embroidered. We have 17 people baking for us...isn't that awesome? For many, it is the first week back to school and I appreciate so much that people are willing to give of their "final week of summer."
Did you know that September is pediatric cancer awareness month? Now you do! I'm going to try and give you a fact about pediatric cancer every day this month. I'm not doing this to scare you or depress you. I'm doing this because awareness is a vital part of early detection and a huge part of fundraising for research money.
Fact #1 On the average, 36 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer everyday in the United States.
Now onto some pictures. Matt got an amazing new camera from his parents for his birthday (by the way---his birthday is Labor Day!) I'm having SO much fun learning how to use it. I couldn't have better subjects to take pictures of. Well I guess they could stand still a little better, and perhaps all smile at the same time...
Eli Matthew
Cara Kathleen
Brady Andrew
Allison Elizabeth
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Wednesday Fun
Due to the weather, we opted out of our usual playgroup today and decided to take a little trip to Brockport. I heard about this place called the Jungle Gym that is an indoor play place for kids ages 1-8. We all had an awesome time playing with different toys, bouncing in the bounce house, and playing in a very cool plastic bead "sand" box. You are allowed to bring your own food, so I packed a lunch and we ate in their party room! I thought that the place was perfect for 2 year olds, and even Allie had a ball. You can check it out at http://www.brockportjunglegym.com/ By the way, we paid $12 total ($4 per child, Allie was free) and we could have stayed all day!
I got several lemonade deliveries this week! Woo-hoo! I think my kitchen looks like it belongs in a Country Time commercial!
I'm asking for a lot of prayer this week! I have a truly special little girl that needs your prayers!! Matt's cousin Sumana is a precious little girl adopted from India who has spina bifida. Tomorrow she is having MAJOR surgery to place a corrective device along her spine to help straighten her severe scoliosis. Please pray for Sumama and her family as they face this frightening time. You can read her mom's blog at http://sumanafaith.blogspot.com
And yes, I love the suggestions of telling the lawyers when I arrive for jury duty that I am a very serious and dedicated blogger. I just can't help but put every detail of my life on the blog! Honestly folks, I keep telling Matt that I think jury duty would be a refreshing mental break from life with 4 kids! How sad is that:)
I got several lemonade deliveries this week! Woo-hoo! I think my kitchen looks like it belongs in a Country Time commercial!
I'm asking for a lot of prayer this week! I have a truly special little girl that needs your prayers!! Matt's cousin Sumana is a precious little girl adopted from India who has spina bifida. Tomorrow she is having MAJOR surgery to place a corrective device along her spine to help straighten her severe scoliosis. Please pray for Sumama and her family as they face this frightening time. You can read her mom's blog at http://sumanafaith.blogspot.com
And yes, I love the suggestions of telling the lawyers when I arrive for jury duty that I am a very serious and dedicated blogger. I just can't help but put every detail of my life on the blog! Honestly folks, I keep telling Matt that I think jury duty would be a refreshing mental break from life with 4 kids! How sad is that:)
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Countdown to Alex's Lemonade Stand
With the big party behind us, my focus now shifts towards our Alex's Lemondade Stand at Oakfield Labor Daze. So many of you have stepped forward to volunteer at the stand, make baked goods, and donate supplies. In the next week or so I will be trying to contact everyone just to confirm that they are still able to help out.
Today my focus is on lemonade sponsors. Our need is to have 10 containers of Country Time Lemonade that come in 5lb 2.5oz canisters at BJs for $5.99. If anyone is still interested in helping in this area, please email me at mwilliams91@rochester.rr.com or leave me a comment with your email address. Lemonade can be bought anytime between now and Saturday September 5th and dropped off at our house. Edited to add: Wow! I posted this in the afternoon and by 9pm we have all 10 cans of lemonade donated! Thank you all so much:)
Today I also want to confirm my stand volunteers. If you are unable to work your shift, please just email me and let me know (no big deal!). If I don't hear from you, I will assume you are still planning on helping out.
Sunday September 6th
10-12 Sue Moore and family
12-2 Indian Falls UMC
2-4 Danna, Lynn, Wes
4-6 Greg, Claudia, Stef, Aunt Nancy
6-8 Peggy, Anne, Kamilla
8-10 Bates Family
Monday September 7th
10-12 Sczudlo Family
12-2 Penepent Family
2-4 Tracy and family
4-6 Maier Family
6-8 Baxter Family
8-10 Ron and Sandy
Tomorrow I will try and organize my list of bakers! We are so excited for this event. Not a day goes by without me thinking of the many children suffering with Neuroblastoma. Remember that 100% of money donated will go to the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation that is dedicated to funding research for pediatric cancers. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!
Today my focus is on lemonade sponsors. Our need is to have 10 containers of Country Time Lemonade that come in 5lb 2.5oz canisters at BJs for $5.99. If anyone is still interested in helping in this area, please email me at mwilliams91@rochester.rr.com or leave me a comment with your email address. Lemonade can be bought anytime between now and Saturday September 5th and dropped off at our house. Edited to add: Wow! I posted this in the afternoon and by 9pm we have all 10 cans of lemonade donated! Thank you all so much:)
Today I also want to confirm my stand volunteers. If you are unable to work your shift, please just email me and let me know (no big deal!). If I don't hear from you, I will assume you are still planning on helping out.
Sunday September 6th
10-12 Sue Moore and family
12-2 Indian Falls UMC
2-4 Danna, Lynn, Wes
4-6 Greg, Claudia, Stef, Aunt Nancy
6-8 Peggy, Anne, Kamilla
8-10 Bates Family
Monday September 7th
10-12 Sczudlo Family
12-2 Penepent Family
2-4 Tracy and family
4-6 Maier Family
6-8 Baxter Family
8-10 Ron and Sandy
Tomorrow I will try and organize my list of bakers! We are so excited for this event. Not a day goes by without me thinking of the many children suffering with Neuroblastoma. Remember that 100% of money donated will go to the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation that is dedicated to funding research for pediatric cancers. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
7 More Days!
Woo hoo! A week from today that Brady Bash will be here! Okay, the latest weather.com report says 80 degrees, scattered thunderstorms, and 30% chance of rain. Sounds like our whole summer!
AND...our Alex's Lemondade Stand is less than 1 month away! For all of my volunteers and bakers, I will be in touch next week to finalize our plans. One big event at a time.
Perhaps the biggest laugh I had this weekend? I opened my mail today to find....A JURY SUMMONS! I figure it was my time, or someone over there at the county courthouse is a blog reader and read my post bragging about how I have never had jury duty. Either way, my date is August 31 which could possibly tie me up the whole week before our Lemonade Stand. We wouldn't be the Williams family without a little stress now would we?
Enjoy your Sunday!
AND...our Alex's Lemondade Stand is less than 1 month away! For all of my volunteers and bakers, I will be in touch next week to finalize our plans. One big event at a time.
Perhaps the biggest laugh I had this weekend? I opened my mail today to find....A JURY SUMMONS! I figure it was my time, or someone over there at the county courthouse is a blog reader and read my post bragging about how I have never had jury duty. Either way, my date is August 31 which could possibly tie me up the whole week before our Lemonade Stand. We wouldn't be the Williams family without a little stress now would we?
Enjoy your Sunday!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
You Guys are GREAT!
I can't believe how many people have emailed me or left messages since I posted my volunteer sign up for our lemonade stand! Once again I am in awe of the giving nature of our friends! Several have offered to work at the stand, offered to buy supplies, and offered to bake. There are many more areas of need, but I have no doubt that God is going to do big things with this project:)
Every single time I think about selling lemonade I think about the families that I know that have a child battling cancer. I think of Stephanie who is 8 months pregnant with her second child and is back forth from Iowa to NYC for weeks at a time as her daughter Dakota fights for her life. I think of Aaron who reached out to help Matt and I in countless ways as we faced our trip to NYC. All the while, his precious son Eli has been fighting this disease for 2 years, all while being away from his mommy and brother back in Iowa. I think of my new friend Laurie who lost her amazing son Michael to leukemia... My friends, I thank you for realizing how important it is to me to do something to honor these warriors and these families. I pray, I pray every day for them. I'm so honored to do so, and I'm so excited to do this project to raise money to improve treatment options for children with pediatric cancers.
No big family news today. Allie continues to get better every day. I took her with me to Jackson school this morning for the end of the school year breakfast. Yes, I've been on maternity leave for 2 1/2 years, but I still love my school family:) She was an absolute doll and it was fun to spend time with just her!
You can CLICK HERE to link to the Alex's Lemonade Stand sign up sheet!
Every single time I think about selling lemonade I think about the families that I know that have a child battling cancer. I think of Stephanie who is 8 months pregnant with her second child and is back forth from Iowa to NYC for weeks at a time as her daughter Dakota fights for her life. I think of Aaron who reached out to help Matt and I in countless ways as we faced our trip to NYC. All the while, his precious son Eli has been fighting this disease for 2 years, all while being away from his mommy and brother back in Iowa. I think of my new friend Laurie who lost her amazing son Michael to leukemia... My friends, I thank you for realizing how important it is to me to do something to honor these warriors and these families. I pray, I pray every day for them. I'm so honored to do so, and I'm so excited to do this project to raise money to improve treatment options for children with pediatric cancers.
No big family news today. Allie continues to get better every day. I took her with me to Jackson school this morning for the end of the school year breakfast. Yes, I've been on maternity leave for 2 1/2 years, but I still love my school family:) She was an absolute doll and it was fun to spend time with just her!
You can CLICK HERE to link to the Alex's Lemonade Stand sign up sheet!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Are you Brady's Mom
edited: I fixed the link to the Alex's Lemonade Stand information!!
It's official, I've lost my identity to my two year old son. In the last week while out in public, two people have asked me,"Are you Brady's mom?" It really cracks me up! Listen Brady...let's not forget you still wear diapers and I can outrun you! At least for now:)
Today's Health Report: Everyone is feeling pretty good around here! I have to spread the word about the magic diaper rash remedy that a blog reader told me about (THANK YOU SHELLEY!) I squirted a whole tube of Desitin into a tupperware container and added some Maalox liquid antacid (probably about 3-4 tablespoons). It is amazing! Her little bum is looking SO much better. I also have started her on Culturelle which is an over the counter probiotic which restores the good bacteria to her digestive system that the antibiotics have stripped away. She still has some diarrhea, but much better than the past few days. Thank you to everyone who has been praying for her and for all of the good advice!
I have finally put together some information about our Alex's Lemonade Stand. If you are interested in helping, you can CLICK HERE. Also on the blog is an official Alex's Lemonade logo that you can click on to find out more about the organization.
It's official, I've lost my identity to my two year old son. In the last week while out in public, two people have asked me,"Are you Brady's mom?" It really cracks me up! Listen Brady...let's not forget you still wear diapers and I can outrun you! At least for now:)
Today's Health Report: Everyone is feeling pretty good around here! I have to spread the word about the magic diaper rash remedy that a blog reader told me about (THANK YOU SHELLEY!) I squirted a whole tube of Desitin into a tupperware container and added some Maalox liquid antacid (probably about 3-4 tablespoons). It is amazing! Her little bum is looking SO much better. I also have started her on Culturelle which is an over the counter probiotic which restores the good bacteria to her digestive system that the antibiotics have stripped away. She still has some diarrhea, but much better than the past few days. Thank you to everyone who has been praying for her and for all of the good advice!
I have finally put together some information about our Alex's Lemonade Stand. If you are interested in helping, you can CLICK HERE. Also on the blog is an official Alex's Lemonade logo that you can click on to find out more about the organization.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Sleepy
I was out late tonight at a rock concert (really I was). At the last minute I decided to join my brother at a concert sponsored by my church. It was like serious head-banging music...I felt old and a little out of touch. There were two Christian bands (both did great!) that performed and in between I got to speak to the crowd briefly about Brady. We sold some Brady bracelets and coupon books that were left over from the Wendy's fundraiser. Any money that has been raised recently and anything we do additionally over the summer will all go towards our Alex's Lemonade Stand donation for pediatric cancer research!
Please pray for Allie as her stomach is not tolerating the antibiotic well at all. I need to call the doctor in the morning and see what they want to do. My poor baby... Brady was "throw up" free today, and despite being a little grouchy, is getting back to himself.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Please pray for Allie as her stomach is not tolerating the antibiotic well at all. I need to call the doctor in the morning and see what they want to do. My poor baby... Brady was "throw up" free today, and despite being a little grouchy, is getting back to himself.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Could it be that Brady is starting to feel better. I'm happy to report that Brady broke his 5 day throw-up record but holding everything down today! I can't say he was back to himself, quite the contrary. He was pretty grouchy all day and very picky about eating. I really hope he will start to feel better soon! We have one PT appointment next week, then a 2 week summer vacation. Allie continues to feel better everyday, although her stomach is quite sensitive to the antibiotic.
Other interesting news today. There was a bank robbery about 4 miles from our house in the "next small town over." The bank robbers somehow ended up on foot, two were apprehended, and one was running loose somewhere within 2-3 miles from my house. Of course I had no clue this was going on, after all they don't interrupt Imagination Movers or Sesame Street with such breaking news. So at nap time, I headed up to Target, while my mother in law stayed with my sleeping kids. When I saw a state trooper and about 20 police cars and media along side of the road, I got a little nervous. Twenty seconds later when my van was being searched by the state trooper while he held a shot gun, I thought maybe I should call my mom and see if she knew what was going on. Once I heard the big news, I called home, told Sandy to lock my doors, and continued to Target. This bank robber wasn't going to stop me from hiding out for an hour or so at my little oasis. The whole way home I saw state troopers at each field with shotguns and binoculars. Come to find out robber #3 was apprehended along that same road I was driving on within minutes of me driving by. All of this excitement in our little neck of the woods...By the way, I've heard the robbers apparently got their get-a-way car stuck in the mud somewhere and while "escaping" on foot they left a money trail behind them. HA!!!
Well, plans for the lemonade stand are in full swing! Here are a few more details:
Dates: September 6th (Sunday) and September 7th (Monday-Labor Day)
Location: Oakfield Labor Daze Celebration at Triangle Park
Times: Sunday 10:30-10:00pm and Monday 10:00am-9:30pm
In the weeks ahead, I'll be looking for volunteers to work 2 hour shifts. We will also be coming up with a list of products that we need and would like to find donations for. I should be receiving my planning packet from the foundation any day. So excited!!!
If you haven't already, please check out the video that I posted yesterday! There is also a link to the Alex's Lemonade Stand on the right side of the blog where you can click and read a lot more about this amazing foundation!
Other interesting news today. There was a bank robbery about 4 miles from our house in the "next small town over." The bank robbers somehow ended up on foot, two were apprehended, and one was running loose somewhere within 2-3 miles from my house. Of course I had no clue this was going on, after all they don't interrupt Imagination Movers or Sesame Street with such breaking news. So at nap time, I headed up to Target, while my mother in law stayed with my sleeping kids. When I saw a state trooper and about 20 police cars and media along side of the road, I got a little nervous. Twenty seconds later when my van was being searched by the state trooper while he held a shot gun, I thought maybe I should call my mom and see if she knew what was going on. Once I heard the big news, I called home, told Sandy to lock my doors, and continued to Target. This bank robber wasn't going to stop me from hiding out for an hour or so at my little oasis. The whole way home I saw state troopers at each field with shotguns and binoculars. Come to find out robber #3 was apprehended along that same road I was driving on within minutes of me driving by. All of this excitement in our little neck of the woods...By the way, I've heard the robbers apparently got their get-a-way car stuck in the mud somewhere and while "escaping" on foot they left a money trail behind them. HA!!!
Well, plans for the lemonade stand are in full swing! Here are a few more details:
Dates: September 6th (Sunday) and September 7th (Monday-Labor Day)
Location: Oakfield Labor Daze Celebration at Triangle Park
Times: Sunday 10:30-10:00pm and Monday 10:00am-9:30pm
In the weeks ahead, I'll be looking for volunteers to work 2 hour shifts. We will also be coming up with a list of products that we need and would like to find donations for. I should be receiving my planning packet from the foundation any day. So excited!!!
If you haven't already, please check out the video that I posted yesterday! There is also a link to the Alex's Lemonade Stand on the right side of the blog where you can click and read a lot more about this amazing foundation!
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