Impact
Growing up in Sunday school the idea of “Tikkun Olam” was drilled into us — the idea that we have a repsonsibility to repair the world. To make it better. To leave it in better shape than how we found it. It makes life meaningful. It was this teaching from my youth that drove me towards the non-profit world and this teaching that has been the underlying foundation for involvement in causes for which I feel connected.
Multiple Myeloma
My mother is a two-time cancer survivor. You can read her story with Multiple Myeloma in The Battle tag section. The people at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Multiple Myeloma Institute are the folks who have made such a difference in her life and the lives of thousands. Learn about them and their extraordinary, world-renowned clinical work:
Cystic Fibrosis
When Leah was several months old she had a series of infections that were seemingly endless. Upon switching pediatricians our newest doctor suggested, just to be safe, that we have her tested for Cystic Fibrosis. It was the single scariest day of my life. We were lucky – she was fine and is now ruling the world with a princess wand, fairy glitter and a liberal use of burgeoning sarcasm. Several years ago we learned our dear friends’ son was diagnosed with this insidious disease. You can find the story here. You can get involved and make a difference as well. There is little pharmaceutical research money given towards Cystic Fibrosis because of the population is afflicts. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation funds almost all itself.
Make-A-Wish
Many years ago I had the distinct honor to be a Wishmaker through this organization. It was the most spectacular volunteer experience I have ever had and I encourage everyone to do this at least once in their life. There are chapters everywhere – find yours. There are many definitions of hero — but in my book, these kids are at the top of any list.
Down’s Syndrome
Six months ago a dear friend had her fourth child. A second son. A charming and delightful little boy – who was diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome shortly after birth. My friend has great faith and great compassion and to watch her sense of dedication, strength and devotion to this boy and the rest of her family is inspiring. She was held up and buoyed by other mothers and an entire community who had come before her and were thrust into understanding what these special kids will experience and require. This website helped her do just that.
http://downsyndromenewmama.blogspot.com/
These are the causes that have touched my life – they don’t have to be yours – but awareness is the first step to action. Sometimes we think we can’t save the world – that we are too small. We don’t have to save the world, we just have to leave it a little better than how we found it.
