Happy New Year Folks

How many of us make New Years resolutions? I decided in November to get the ball rolling so that when New Years came I would be in full swing of my resolutions and not forget about them January 2nd. As you are aware, January is a little busy for us MacDonald's (and Nicki's), anything that enter Tammy brain - slip out Tammy brain (got that from Confucius). My unhealthy habits that enhance the Valentine twitch are already being dealt with - coffee, sugar, chocolate, late night computer work, talking and driving (I tend to say yes to everything when I am pre-occupied).... and so on.

I wish you all success for your personal resolutions. For any of you who have resolved to quit drinking, I am doing the opposite, If we hit that million, I am gonna celebrate and tie one on. Never allowed myself to experience this before (and being 11:45 pm on new Years Eve - one would think this would be perfect timing).

With that, I am signing off wishing all of you a wonderful 2010! Thanks for following!! Catch up in 2010!

CISN COUNTRY promotion.

For all of you avid country music fans out there (like myself), you may soon hear CISN's promotion of the Hair Massacure, or if you are a CISN member - you will receive an email with an announcement. Yay!!!

CISN has been promoting our event since our World Record Attempt in 2006, which has helped our cause immensely. In 2008, Chris Sheetz (Program Director) surprised me with an exciting idea - An incentive concert to the school with the highest level of participation (this was based on numbers involved and total raised). He really wanted to focus on schools, as the involvement of the kids is very near to his heart.

Along with the ongoing weeks of radio promotion provided and DJ involvement (Ian Sterling and Mike McGuire), Chris Sheetz miraculously managed to tag both Johnny Reid and Emerson Drive to provide the entertainment for our winning schools.

I still get goosebumps when I think about how we became so lucky.

This all started through an answered email from this desperate mom who wanted exposure from this radio station one week prior to our 06 event. Back then I was still driving a school bus part time and heard (on route) Ian Sterling live talking about this "Tammy MacDonald" person and if anyone knew her, to please help them reach me as they lost my contact info. Took a second to register...... scrambled for the cell phone, but had difficulty reaching them because their line was flooded with calls of people who apparently knew me (times have changed....)

Ian (who was replaced by Mike McGuire the following year) pinked his hair and set two feet in.

His promotion was so heartfelt - a few months later I received news from Chris that Ian was diagnosed with Leukemia. There were two "Proud Victims" that year that were, after participating with us. I am happy to say that Ian is currently finished his treatment and doing very well as a radio DJ in London, Ontario.

Our 09 event was heavily promoted by the infamous Mike McGuire. Last February, my daughter Meagan and myself had the honour of pinking his mop live in studio, along with Dr. Basch (our lead researcher for the program we are funding). Anyone that knows Mike, knows this man is compassionate AND crazy.

Later that day, Chris Sheetz mc'd an Oiler's shave at Make-A-Wish with Ethan Moreau and Ales Hemsky.

I am throughly grateful for media, particularly those promoters that have heart and respect the grass roots of our wacky event.

On behalf of our family and our event, our hats (toques) off to CISN for the wonderful sponsorship as platinum sponsors. Keep on CISN....

Boxing Day

Who... besides me took their children to West Edmonton Mall to hit the boxing day sales?

Yikes!! What was I thinking? Typically for me, "Boxing Day" means box everything up and take it downstairs to the storage room. Once I recovered from THAT unnecessary and traumatic experience, down went my hot pink tree and all the ornaments - and OH there was the boxes of pink hair dye and bleach underneath it all.... waiting. It quickly transitioned from Xmas to Massacure - my focus for the next 7 weeks.

FRED is nice and pink (thank you Mandy), and my wheels are turning once again. How to raise a million dollars so close to the crunch?? It's not possible to tell whether we will reach a goal until months after the event, so I have decided to not set one this year. Of course my wish remains - 1,000,000.00. I will not ever feel satisfied and accomplished until this is achieved because I dreamt this and I know it will happen one day. With everything that brought us success in this event, I dreamt it - it came as a vision, saw it all before it materialized. True. When charities are suffering in this economy, it will be a difficult ask that we again surpass our total from last year (849,000). I can only pray we do.

I know this is random, but with Xmas barely over, I wanted to end this blog by including a memory that I felt appropriate to share at this time.

When Kali was diagnosed, it was September. This placed her in hospital for her scheduled monthly week of chemo, a few days shy of Christmas. She was released on the 22 and back in on the 23 in isolation with fever. This became the first incident of many consecutively hospitalized holidays (next was New Years, Easter, July 1st, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Remembrance day of 2001).

What we did not expect that would lift that that Santa would bring coming to 4E3- in a full sized sleigh (assembled right in the hospital). Every child and their sibling received a gift (which was wonderful considering that we were strapped for cash). Santa came to Kali that year (as she was isolated) and THAT prompted an idea which materialized 2 years later (which I will share at another time). Kali was released mid Christmas day (1 day early), just in time for Christmas dinner (with select healthy family members). A food hamper and a turkey was provided to us by the knights of Columbus, among various gifts and donations donated by our friends and neighbours. We learned what Christmas was really about that year. To this day, this has altered my personal perception of this particular holiday.

Pinking of you at Christmas

Hi folks, I cant believe tomorrow is Christmas.

Who is actually ready? I am sensing I am not the only one. During our high season of Massacure scramble, it's very difficult to fit Christmas into the equation.

Managed to pink the dog and touch up Santas beard, but slipped a little on the festive preparation. Nicki is still replacing bandages for her sliced fingers (from our pledge packages).

I wonder if folks in the laid back Atlantic provinces are all caffeined up today in a mad panic to rescue the effects of their hectic, over-scheduled lives? I am guessing not. Could be mistaken, but from what I observed from their culture as a whole, they seem a lot more laid back than we are. Think this is healthier.

I know from where I stand - I have more baking awaiting, my home is in disarray, and my roots need a touch up. What about that gift fairy that slips in and wraps everything for you? Oh - I have one of those this year finally (I was on a waiting list - for 23 years) her name is Kali. Thank the Lord that this kid sees wrapping as a novelty. New week I will change the subliminal recording under her pillow to "I love tidying". Even as I fret over the state of being unprepared for hosting Christmas Eve, I am writing a blog and have harassed Ellen again with a picture of herself with pink hair.

On that note, I will bid you all adieu, and wish you the Merriest of Christmas's.

Christmas too...

Ah Christmas…

I’ve been woken up the last few mornings about an hour earlier than my alarm clock would go off… then I run into the bathroom to shower as quick as possible as the house heats up for the morning… then I run to get dressed in the warmest clothes I can wear to work and still look professional… then I run to my car and start it, then run around my car to brush it off… then I wait in my car while it warms up enough so I can get it into gear (I’m hoping for a new car from Santa.. hint hint).. then just as I start to warm up, I park my car and run across the street into the office.

You’d think with all this running, I would be in fabulous shape – and I should be. Except everyone keeps bring fresh baking to the office – which I would be rude to refuse to sample (It's a hard life..) and the fact that I’m wearing a million layers (plus my new John Deere scarf and tuque set!) and so ladies and gentlemen… I have a proposition to make.

I propose that we should switch Christmas to June 25th. People can enjoy a “White Christmas” by traveling to the very North, or very South, and sometimes, Edmonton. Imagine how Christmas shopping would be when you don’t mind walking across 3 overflow parking lots to get to your car with arms full of presents. It’s fine – It’s plus 25C!

And if the reason we celebrate Christmas in December is because teachers need a break – I’m still for it! I need the break too. A nice break in Mexico perhaps…


I also think that if we spread Tammy’s “Christmas Cheer” around maybe there would not be so many people trying to escape Edmonton at the same time...

Xmas times

I think this nice gentleman must have read my last blog before the incident at the theatre last night. 6 people in the theatre - I mistook him for my daughter. Simple mistake, it was dark, I was enthralled with the flic. He didn't seem to mind having me snuggle in for 10 minutes, nor did his lovely wife. He even spoke nicely to me after I made off with his jacket.

The man in the suit that I hoofed in the forbidden place with the back of my heel seemed nice too. His colour returned quickly and to my knowledge - no hard feelings.

Gotta love the holidays. Now I feel bad about my last blog, posing concerns about tolerance and kindness.

At the Stollery yesterday, Tyler (last years project coordinator) gave me a beautiful plastic purple unicorn keychain. It was sealed in a crunchy plastic baggy so I think it was expensive. Nicki gifted our entire family with homemade mittens (with the string) - think she knows I would loose mine, or maybe the string is helpful in case Fred eats one? Thoughtful - yes?

The Stollery staff is really very nice and I quite enjoy my visits there. I bring cookies. Yesterday I left with a big bow - I guess that was to offer subliminal messages that I needed to be unwrapped. You can hear them from afar - its the laughing and its wonderful. They are a fun group.

My drive home was nice too - folks offering me sign language alluding to the fact that I am still number one. I drove extra slow, so maybe this was appreciated. Christmas only 2 days away, I am feeling the spirit hit me. Lets find out what Nicki feels about Christmas....

Christmas mentality

Forgive me folks, I am a little all over the place today so I hope you can keep up....

Is it just me or are our roads and shopping malls lacking that same christmas spirit that is present at parties, and various gatherings in Whoville. Many of us cram inside places of worship, enjoying each others viruses and gasses and we sing away at the top of our lungs and thank the Lord for the birth of his son. Then we shake anti bacterial hands and hug as we politely filter out, get into our vehicles and the metamorphosis process is almost instant. Next to the divine birth, this would be considered the next Christmas phenomenon. It's like a spin off of New Moon, only the masks are invisible. We go home and watch a Christmas movie and think warm and fuzzy thoughts. What is that all about?

Imagine keeping the Christmas spirit a consistent attitude year through.

When one is involved in a charity, particularly in a position of leadership (like myself), you must maintain this kind spirit (yes.... especially in your vehicle). This is indeed a lot of pressure, but for the most part will be genuine (except on those pms days and high caffeine / low sleep days). You can tell who is in it because of their heart, as it will reflect in their personality. Still.... when push comes to shove, there is no opportunity to take someone to the parking lot if they deserve it. Instead we save that pent up frustration to bounce our problematic sewing machines, cell phones, and power tools down our driveways (in the dark of course).

I live and work with good people. Example that comes to mind, any of my peeps who have driven around with me in my billboard can testify to the fact that even as their lives passed before their eyes (as a result of my bad driving) they remained cool and collected. Slipping quietly in fearful medication of prayer, there is no evidence of harbouring ill feelings.

My lengthy lists of to do's, scattered thought process and wack sense of humour forces them into a position of tolerance and acceptance.

My point... is it possible to exercise control over how we treat others?

Is this more about how we are brought up, how we are wired or our daily exposures in our environment?

Can we be more considerate in our vehicles and crowded shopping areas, work places, schools? Is it that we choose not to simply because we know we can

and

what if conditions change and our choices to be inconsiderate and indifferent were not a consideration? Are more mindful of our behaviours and attitudes only at Christmas?

Just food for thought....

Enjoy your Christmas week.

A bit about Kali and leukaemia

As most of you know, my daughter Kali is the inspiration for our event. Kali is now 11 and has been in remission for 7 years. She was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at age 2 and had daily chemotherapy for 33 months. Her chances were 1 in 3 for not surviving. Kali is still at risk.

This type of cancer (of the blood) was considered a death sentence 40 years ago. For adults and teens still, leukaemia is not the most treatable type of cancer. Because of various clinical studies, this has enabled young children to have greater success with their treatments.

Kali was the first child in North America to be placed on a particular study that involved aggressive treatment, comparable to adult dose with additional drugs that placed her at greater risk of harmful side effects including fertility, heart defects, irreparable nerve and brain damage and secondary cancers. There were many more - a lengthy list, however the greatest side effect was our daily nightmare - severe immuno suppression resulting in death. It was understood that 1/2 of cancer patients that are lost is due to result of treatment, not the cancer.

Septic shock occurs when the body cannot produce enough neutrophils to attack foreign bacteria, or even its own. Needless to say - we were extremely careful with our daughter.

We learned to live in a bubble. Having a cold/ flu or dreaded viruses/ bacteria enter our home was never an option. Bacteria being the most threatening as it can take a life in a few hours.

A fever over 85 meant 120 k down Groat Road, 8 hours in emerg and a minimum of 3 days in isolation (masked and gowned). There were many of those occasions. Just after our Wish Trip in 2001, 16 of those in a 6 week period. Kali had Parvo that time. Another occasion was pneumonia, another was pancreatitis to name just a few. We knew of a mom that stopped on the way to emerg (cancer with fever) to feed her child at McDonalds. She know the wait in Emerg would be lengthy, so she had prepared. What she wasnt prepared for was being too late. She lost her child - that quick.

Kali remembers very little about her treatment (which is great for her - wish this also applied to us).

This is why we are funding research for children's cancer. Yes, treatment saves live - can't argue with that. It can also takes lives, it destroys healthy cells, robs childhood and leaves residual damage. Although I have noted that Leukaemia treatment is on the improve (milder and shorter in duration), we still need a cure. A cure for all cancers. We just need it to go away.....

my dad.

My first Massacure, 2006, we were on a stage at the East side of West Edmonton Mall, the one where Santa is in December (and now November). We were going for a world record – and we did it! We were the single largest head shave to happen under one roof in a 24 hour time period.
My favorite memory of that shave was getting my hair cut by one of the stylists... at 3am. I thought it looked good, so I thanked him and went to grab two folding chairs to put together to have a nap on. Not one of the best sleeps I’ve had. I then had to leave the event early to go write a test… Not one of the best marks I’ve had either. It was so much fun though!

Actually, my all time best memory happened at this first event! My dad died his hair pink and then shaved it off. Picture my dad, a little balding (but in a cute way!) was bleach blond for an entire week, then fluorescent pink for another month. Picture a pink highlighter. Did I mention that my dad is an electrician? He walked around raising money at his worksite for about a month previous to going pink; no one believed he would actually do it. He did in the end (I had faith) and he ended up raising a bunch of money from co-workers, among friends and family. He shaved his head (and we had such a cold winter that year..) and even though he was not recognized in the world record, he did me proud!

Just being with him, feeling the strange looks we got when we went to pool tournaments in bars, or walking around in the mall. Half the time I thought I was pink also from all the stares we would get! People would be rude and condescending before he would explain that he knew this little girl who loved pink. He would explain about Kali and how the Massacre was helping other kids like her; and before you could even ask them for money, people would be pulling out their wallets or shaking his hand.

He was asked many times if he had lost a bet and if this was his punishment. If they had really known my dad, they would have known that he would do anything for a child.

My dad rocks! And he is not alone. How many dads out there go pink and/or shave their heads for kids every year. I want to send out a special thanks for all the work you do throughout the year to raise such great kids, and then when you really go above and beyond and help out others. I find it amazing and I know that there are so many people out there that want to thank you for everything you do.

Happy half Father’s Day. I love you.
xx Nicki

Families that Fundraise

Hi folks, my last post reflected on difficult memories that parents and families harbour as a result of their child's treatment. Todays event ties nicely into this. Skate for a Cure. It's family run like ours, Collin Parker (middle) heads things up here.

Dear friends of ours (the Cuccione Family) run a charity in their late son's name - Michael Cuccione Foundation. They have a research lab in Michaels name at the BC Children's Hospital.

They also have satellite events here in Edmonton, Italy, New York, and L.A.

Gloria (Michaels mom) and I refers to ourselves as "Moms on a Mission".

The Cucciones lost Michael at the age of 16 in 2001 due to sudden and unforeseen side effects many years after Michaels treatment. Michael was launching his acting career in his new sit com, his role as lead singer in Much Musics feature band - "Together", and maintaining his efforts on sending his message to the world that we MUST conquer cancer. Michael attended schools and high profile events much like we do, Jay Leno, The Pope, and the list goes on....

The Cuccione family live with the painful memories of their son's journey and yet they persevere running his charity as per Michaels request. I quite admire them for that. I know for a fact this is very difficult for the family, but much like us we all do it for the love of the kids.

For them, they no longer have their son to offer them hope.. as we do.

Our Edmonton money is pooled together funding the same research lab at the Stollery. We both feel very passionate about finding that cure, better / milder treatment for children.

Today - myself, Kyrsti, Kali and Steven took shifts as mascots (Dr. Patch Up / Kali Bear) and Santa. Kali took the shift after Steven as Doctor Patch - how ironic. This famous Stollery Bear made Kali's day on visits on 4E3 for that 3 year stint, now she is the one hugging the little kids.

After my slump, I was rejuvenated from my shift of playing the Kali Bear). Kyrsti took the first one). I can hug kids, find mischief, and seek attention without repercussion to my angelic reputation.

I guess these sad reasons that prompt folks to make things better do have their perks. I would be lying if I said that charity work is a walk in the park, but.... I'd also be lying if I said we didnt have our moments of fun.

memories

I suppose most folks have some type of issue with something, for some, even PTSD. I am putting this in writing for my own account that I have a problem - it's hospitals (being in or around). Please dont assume that I am not grateful for hospitals - they save lives.... 3 out of 4 daughters in fact are still here because they exist.

I proudly choose to support one in my fundraising, a very good one in fact - but over the years I have arrived at that point where I no longer have the coping skills to take Kali to her appointments, visit patients, or even enjoy a coffee or food within the vicinity of a hospital. Years ago, my girlfriend Carol and I ran a family support group for Kids With Cancer. We were good at it, and enjoyed this connection, often visiting the cancer kids at the Stollery. Nowadays a little bald head puts my guts are in a severe twist. My friend too - both of us -an emotional mess.

Not sure why this has happened so many years after Kali's treatment.

Somehow we managed to get through those 3 years of treatment, as well as those 2 other daughters in ICU battling their own life threatening thing..... why now?

Two weeks ago I did rounds with Beamer (mentor for FRED - Stollery Therapy dog), and his owner Neil (who has visited Peds Oncology unit every Tuesday for the past 10 years). This was an occasion I was very much looking forward to, thinking more about the dog part and less about the hospital part. Once I arrived, I realized I needed to leave. My future plans for FRED now....somewhat altered.
I have spent these past two days in two hospitals with two loved ones. Tests for Kali (day 1 - educated about the residual effects and irreparable damage due to chemotherapy), day 2- a traumatic collapse leading to a 911 call and loss of vitals. This occurred in my arms. Both situations ended with a happy ending, however this has convinced me that I have lost my coping skills.

Why am I throwing this out in a blog? (I am sure you would much prefer the papercut story....)

The Hair Massacure, an event we strive to make fun and exciting - is held for sad reasons. Reasons that parents never quite get over.

For parents that fundraise, we appreciate the fact that you folks out there listen. Our story resinates with us daily, lowering the tolerance we once had that initially brought us through the crisis with our children.

To know the real story, from most of us parents - you may never. Feels too painful to tell.

Wedding SOS

I watched a show the other night called Wedding SOS. It’s about those people who are planning a wedding but haven’t bought a book, or don’t use lists (this would never be me! Ask my best friend how many books and binders I’ve bought her!) But then this “wedding planner of the stars” shows up and grants them three wishes so that their wedding will not be a complete fail.

I was wondering if we could get her for our event. Every year! I’m not saying that we are disorganized – because really you should see all our lists and binders! But it would be so nice to have her there to swoop in at the last moment (she normally shows up 10 days before the wedding) to worry about little things like food, and a reception hall, or in our case, everything that we are all too tired to think of.

To be my own Fairy God Mother (without a wand unfortunately…) I am trying to get those pesky little things done now so they will not have to be worried about during the mass chaos that is February. Things like printing name tags, getting schedules drawn up, and making a map of the event. This includes where chairs will go and where ushers will stand – I mean EVERYTHING!

This also includes things like getting a transportation schedule ready so that by January first everyone will know what time the truck has to be unloaded at the Mall on the morning of the event.

Yes, I may be a bit anal about some things (example: the map is to scale.), but I think that by not having a life now, I will be able to sleep in February. And boy, do I ever love sleep! And I believe that Tammy and my fellow Captains love sleep too… so I make them help me!

So thank you to all my fellow Massacurians that help do all the “small” stuff before the event! I appreciate it!

xx Nicki

Just put some lemon juice on it… that’ll make it feel better.

I love pledge packages. I think that they’re amazing. You get everything in one tidy envelope and can go. GO OUT AND FUNDRAISE! It’s awesome. Putting the pledge packages together though…. not so great. Not so lovable.

Since Friday evening, I have been doing nothing else than stuffing envelopes full of pledge packages. This week, I come home from work, and stuff. The action isn’t so bad – I get to put on a movie and do mindless work for a few hours until I’m ready to go to sleep. Saturday I even fell asleep with an envelope in one hand and a pledge package in the other. This had nothing to do with the bottle of wine I had just consumed… really! Point of the story - my fingers are full of paper cuts. Lots of paper cuts. Lots and lots and lots of paper cuts.

Let me tell you how to be on time for work; have enough paper cuts on your hands that for the 38 seconds that you have to rub in your shampoo, your fingers burn like no one’s business. Showers are quicker, hence, being on time. This could be the way of the future! Or not…

So, fellow Massacurians, this is what your team does for you. In years past, the MacDonald family has felt the wrath of paper, and this year, it was my turn. We don’t do this for the glory or the high you get with a large amount of blood loss. We do it for little Johnny who raises $48.39. We do it for little Suzie who raises $6000. We do it for the construction workers who raise over $40,000. We do it for the survivors, and for those who didn’t make it. We do it for you. And we are proud to do it for you.

My fingers may hurt for the next week (and again in January when I have to do another 1000), you may get a pledge package with some extra colour to it (it’s ok. blood doesn’t come off), but the difference we make in the lives of a child (even if it is a rather old one.. dad….) is worth it all.

Happy Pledging!

xx Nicki

Captains meeting at MAW

Our Massacure volunteers are the best. We have over 400 that support our cause - 25 Captains, veterans (who have been with us forever), 8 Stylist coordinators and Kyrstis peeps (youth volunteers) are just like family.

Today we had a captains meeting at Make-A-Wish, ate some cookies, enjoyed a little Baileys in coffee and with our heads together we planned to make the system tighter and better. We hold these captains meeting year round, and not only do we gets things accomplished, but we have fun doing it. We all like each other, which is a bonus. The only drama involved would be the unusual and humorous antics that occur with a couple of us. Sometimes I wonder if these "meetings" could get planned just for the sake of the visit...... all works for me. At any rate its productive.

Its a sad reason we do this (is what I tell the schools and media), but gosh these gatherings are fun! "and If its not fun, then why are we doing it?" is my motto.

About this time of year I lean heavily on our captains and rely daily on my amazing project coordinator (I call her Nicki..., or honey - when I'm being high maintenance in my lengthy task lists).

My oldest daughter and I have a role reversal at this time, she watches for the twitches and tail spins, and now will look after the stylist area. My second oldest keeps the dog pink and occupied at the shop. Good thing thay help out at home ensuring my Visine and Preparation H (FOR MY EYES) is removed from pockets and does not get laundered, supper is prepared - does not include chocolate, chores are done, Mom has matching socks, fly check - yep its UP, car keys located in fridge again, glasses are on face and phone in hand as I run out the door (usually 3 times) in my disheveled state of panic.

Hugs are plentiful and patience in place as they know its temporary.... or at least this is what they choose to believe to get though the Massacure season.

Yes, I feel blessed for the support. With Alzheimer's awaiting in my genetic future, I need all the help I can get, and this is great practice for them.

I want to end this little blip (which went away on me again - supposed to be about the captains meeting...) with a huge thank you to all that support me and my little quirks, my vision for the cause, and my state of well being at this time. Karma will find you and bless you.

School / group Participation

Hi folks,

as you are aware, we have a number of schools and groups/ workplaces that unite in support of our event. I cant think of a better way to get involved in a meaningful cause, than to share the unique experience with family, friends, school or co-workers. Now... at last you CAN say "but all my friends are doing it!"

It used to be years back that parents and grandparents sponsored little Johnny and Suzy, now they are pinking and shaving with them.

The single child that braved the awkwardness amongst their peers with pink hair will eventually inspire their school to support the cause the following year.

I applaud those brave souls that lead the movement amongst their own peeps. Gord and I several years back went through it ourselves when we were trying to establish this hair brained idea back in 2005. Little did we know that one day Pink would be the new blue.

I recall teachers being judged and ridiculed years ago at various gatherings for their desperate attempt to "fit in and be cool with the kids" with the pink hair. Had they just thought to ask why..... If it weren't for those teachers that lead the example, would we have had dozens of schools involved over these years?

Times have changed. Now with the awareness of the event, its a known signature trademark. Several teachers since have come forth fully participating, leading their school and fellow staff members by example. Construction workers, Pipe Fitters, dance instructors, karate students, all walks of life. Thats admirable.

All it takes is one to get the ball rolling.

Now we have a number of schools who pink AND shave together. Makes sense, why not enjoy the entire journey as a whole? It offers a sense of community and besides... it's way more fun.

School / group pinkings can be made possible 2 ways:

1). The 2 Academies - Marvel and Eveline Charles (see website) can accommodate large groups.

2.) Order Kali Pink and Bleach - Manic Panic (Order forms will be available for schools and groups) and organize your own group pinking.

Then the big Shave at WEM:

You can book your group / family / school / to shave and we will schedule you in together. Scheduling will be available in January, as well as the sale of merchandise and Kali pink.

If you are new to the Massacure, or have participated as an individual in past, consider bringing a friend, a relative, ignite your class, school or workplace. There is more strength in numbers.

Think of all the heads you will turn walking in a pink pack........

Self Esteem

Thought I would touch on self esteem today, being one of my latest posts dealt with shyness.

Please dont think my agenda is solely to plug my event by what I am about to share, however with each and every post I try to relate it back to the Massacure. After all, this is the purpose of this blog.

The ironic thing with pinking and shaving is that one might assume this to be an esteem deflator. In some ways it can be, briefly (mostly for the conservative ones). Certainly humbling to say the least - its supposed to be. After all, one does stick out in a crowd. It is human to have an automatic judgement response to something or someone that is different. I applaud those who choose to rise above it.

Ironically the boost of esteem occurs at that very moment when you realize that your heroic endeavour just made a huge and lasting impact, leaving you with those memories that you can proudly reflect on and share with your grandkids, co-workers and family members. Once educated the ones that initially placed judgement now recognize you as heroic. The rewarding feeling fills you to your core when you spot a sick child or cancer patient and know that you did something to feel really good about. That is indeed a boost, dont you agree?

Whatever we do to assist and support our fellow man makes us feel good inside. In my opinion (and I'll assume yours) there is something particularly special about helping children. They are our future. Our positive examples teach our children to follow these footsteps, and Lord knows we need more of that in this world.

DO SOMETHING THIS NEW YEAR THAT YOU WILL FEEL GOOD ABOUT.... HELP A CHILD.

10 days of Xmas Massacure

Hi folks, thought I would offer a bit of insight as to a typical December in my home during the season. I have a hot pink tree, a hot pink dog and a Santa with a pink beard. The non Xmas items (the boxes) have ornaments on them. On Christmas Eve, I leave milk and cookies at my moms cause Santa cant get into my house.

This little Christmas tune reflects the farm during the season

12 Days of Christmas on Old MacDonalds Farm.

On the 1st day of Xmas, my Purolator sent to me..... a Pallet of Kali Pink for me.

On the 2nd day of Xmas, my Purolator sent to me 2 Christmas cards (from the charities)

On the 3rd day my Purolator sent to me.... 3 boxes of Mona Vie (for my energy)

On the 4th day my Purolator sent to me, 4 boxes of Wahl Clippers,

One the 5 day from X-mas, my Purolator sent to me - 5 golden pallets .... of Paul Mitchell Ink Works Pink

6 batches of posters

7 cases of bleach (to go with the Kali Pink)

8 samples from Sparks

9 boxes of Pledge Packages

10 cases of brochures

11 Hot pink Glam Strips

On the 12th day of Xmas, my Purolator sent to me - a note from his Chiropractor....

Shy

How many of us struggle with shyness? Anyone who has met Kali would likely describe her as the epitome of such. We all know someone like this, as they present as obvious. Its a little more difficult to identify the closet types who hide their shyness behind their vehicles (road rage), a false persona,

a 500.00 suit / or Stilettos, or even a Kali Bear (mascot).

Shyness can be managed very well but it never really goes away. Those of us (yes, I am making an apprehensive admission here...) can learn to project their character, but it still scary as H- E- double hockey sticks sometimes.

I have discovered a program that can help (as there really is no cure). It's called a Massacure.

Try walking around with pink hair for a month. Kinda hard to disappear into a crowd, sit in the back row type of thing.... Might as well lock yourself in and force yourself to do something that scares you (I hear that builds character), besides aren't we encouraged to do something scary everyday? I do. This way the shy person kills two birds with one stone. They are trying on their big girl panties and spreading awareness / fundraising at the same time. Once the hair comes off, only 1/3 of the population will think you are a cancer patient, so this will force you to deal with the silent stares and gestures of sympathy. You will have to explain the thing (or the "program" you signed up for, succumbed to...) and voila - you are talking to people. Yay! And no one will ever know that you later barfed in your car on the way home.

And for you nerds out there.... it's your opportunity to switch things up. Pink hair means "chic magnet". Its way more effective than borrowing your sisters baby or puppy for a walk to the park. Looking for a bit of an edge? A mohawk will make you feel like Fonzie.

And for the seniors.... I hear that pink is the new blue. Take 10 years off! Ladies.... it's just a known fact that most women look smashing in pink, so where am I going with this?

Make your News Years resolution one that reflects conquering your shyness and doing something meaningful. I will .... again.

Kids With Cancer Christmas Party

Hi folks,

Today was our 9th yearly Kids With Cancer Christmas party at WEM where all families on and off treatment are welcome to attend. This includes a 2 hour pass to Galaxyland, lunch, Shriners, Eskies and Santa / Mrs. Claus (with gifts for all cancer kids and their siblings).

Its hard to believe that 9 years have passed since Kalis diagnosis. This christmas party was a blessing in our bleak world and to this day the kids still look forward to this occasion.

Families get a chance to reconnect, we watch survivors grow into healthy teens and tweens, and cancer kids feel normal in this environment. No awkward silences or glances, no meaningless conversation (to save a difficult moment), no fluff, no pussyfooting - just reality in its purest form. Parents talk, children don't have to because they understand what each other is going through so they just play. It's beautiful and sad at the same time.

In this room we witness hope as we bear witness to these miraculous survivors.

Then, after time passes we realize how many have been affected by treatment, how many

relapses, and those that are missing....

We realize the increasing number of hidden broken marriages. Yet, on this day we still play and we celebrate the ones that are among us.

It's very difficult to attend these functions, yet we all gravitate to it. We need each other. Most of us have lost close friends and family members (due to the harsh reality of our situation) during the darkest period of our lives, so we reach out to each other for comfort and support. We have developed life long bonds that both serve as support systems, and unfortunately reminders.

The Hair Massacure supported Kids With Cancer Society for four years and raised awareness and hundreds of thousands of dollars for family support programs. This felt very rewarding at the time, however we still realized that we were not getting to the root of the problem. There were far too many young funerals and this motivated us to switch over to a research program at the Stollery. KWC now has a late terms effects program which helps children like Kali off treatment, however we chose to stay with what we started at Stollery. I would like to believe that perhaps someday a miraculous new treatment will be discovered there as a result of the thousands of pink heads that have supported our cause.

Wish Kids

Hi folks, as you all know our event raises money for both Stollery (Ped. Oncology research) and Make-A-Wish. Our Kali is a wish child and received her wish when she was 3 (she was critical, so we choose not to wait just in case). Her wish was to pet a "black and white dolphin", and so she did (Shamu). This life changing experience prompted us to choose this organization to raise money for, and volunteer with various events. Kali was a particular child that was chosen to represent MAW on many occasions over the years. Gord is a longstanding board member, I am a wish grantor (both are volunteer positions). This has been a huge honour - very rewarding to deliver a wish to a child with a life threatening illness. These kids are exceptional and very deep. Once a child lives with and accepts the fear of their own demise, they become "old souls" (or is it the other way around?) My wish kids - I hold very close.

Tonight, with Gord in tow, I met my last wish child at the airport to welcome him and his family back from Disney. This is a huge commitment, and with the Massacure swallowing us up as it does every winter, it is no longer possible to continue.

I think it's important to find something that speaks passion. For us, it has been sick kids.

Toyota

Here we were thinking that God forgot about winter. I was a school bus driver for 13 years, so harsh roads and weather do not intimidate me. Today on my way to Toyota for my new tires, I slid right through a busy intersection. I was thinking that the kids that laid hands on me yesterday at Morinville Christian School offered me another life (as I have far surpassed 9 of them).

I'd like to talk about Toyota. They have part sponsored my 07 Sienna van, all thanks to the sales manager who believed in our cause. I love this company, and I love my Massacar (that would be a moving billboard which I am told is spotted everywhere, so I can never hide). The great part about this vehicle is its great promotion for the event (so my vision was a success), however it sucks in that I am a terrible driver and cant just slip away blending into traffic everytime I p - - - someone off. I don't think I do that very often because most people I've irritated just signal to me that I am #1. Then there is the general public that like to wave and expect me to know them while I am busy dodging the fuzz for a traffic violation.

Back to the van....

Best gas mileage for mini vans and zero emission. This is definitely a company that I am proud to partner with as they have taken our air quality very seriously and that is important to me when cancer is in the forefront of my brain everyday, likely in yours too.

What are our babies and children breathing? It's scary. We have miserably abused our earth that was once given to us as pure, clean, with mother nature in complete synergy. Now it's in crisis, has been for a few decades now. How do we each as individuals take the necessary drastic steps to save it? "It starts with me" needs to be our motto. Collectively, individuals affect industry. Toyota lead the way in the automotive industry toward air preservation. Did I mention zero emission? Anyhoo - I am treated very well over at Mayfield, and they are very proud to support our cause. Our plaque with a picture of a bald Kali hangs near the customer lounge. I now have new tires, so hopefully I dont slide through anymore intersections. I just need to work on my driving.

Kali Pink / Paul Mitchell Pink

Kali Pink is a retail pink produced and part sponsored by Manic Panic. Some of you may have come across this in your travels to a salon or to Sobeys. The lid of the jar sports an image of a healthy 2 year old Kali in pig tails just 2 weeks prior to her diagnosis. In 2007, I approached Tish and Snooky in New York (owners of Manic Panic) and explained our event and my vision. It was an enthusiastic yes to partner! My goal was to lesson some of the chaotic pink traffic in the salons before they permanently deleted me from their phone and emails. Pink fades quickly. If a "Proud Victim" pinks in early January, potentially they will need 3-4 retouches before the buzz. That meant those same pink heads were frequenting these salons to maintain their vibrance, and that meant I baked a LOT of extra cookies....

This is convenient for those that wish to pink at home at their own convenience, for schools to host their own pinkings, and re-touches for those that wish for the salon experience.

The thing about pink hair colour.... your pillowcases, shower liners, white collars and the inside of your helmet are participating too.....say goodbye! Have you ever stirred red Kool-Aid with your hands? Why would you but thats besides the point...You can sure tell whos supporting this event by their extremities. In my house, (and all supporting salons), it's a normal look for 4 weeks. Even the dog.... (although he gets food colouring). It's all worth it, and how else does little Johnny get away with sporting a nice tall mohawk in church?

Snooky - the owner of Manic Panic has a vested interest in our little arctic event. This large company loves the mom and pop shop businesses, and they love Miss Kali.

On that note,

I will add that Paul Mitchell proudly sponsors our event with 1600 bottles of pink to all salons. This is not a retail product, but our salons sure appreciate this considering they are donating precious time in the chair as well as bleach. Paul Mitchells rep (my dear friend Shauna) pinks, shaves, volunteers and donates every year. Incredible. Halifax's Massacure and Ottawa's Massacure benefit from this donation as well - I ship a healthy supply to both of these chapters and this is good for me because it frees up a spot to walk into my home.

Between the shipments of Manic Panic, Paul Mitchell, and donated Wahl hair clippers - my front room's floor to ceiling boxes reflects that I am moving.

One day I will, and the question will be... "will the pink follow us?".

One more...just to clear up any misconceptions about our pink. Folks, this was not chosen as a marketing strategy, or robbed from the Breast Cancer's campaign. This pink thing we do was by mere accident and a lost bet. Feb 1, 2005 - Gord expressed his frustration about bald men being fashionable and how this affects collecting pledges. Sarcastically he commented that he might as well dye his hair pink!!!!! Lightbulb went on in twisted little Tammy brain, and the remark was challenged. A bet was determined by whether or not co-workers at Canada Post would participate in this hair brained idea (Gord obviously not for the idea..). Bet lost - Pink in! On TV the following week with the help of good friends Stacey Abdella and Bridget Ryan. Next year, event looked like a huge throw up of Pepto Bismal all over West Edmonton Mall - and so it began......

PINK!!

STILL Kalis favorite colour and what a more appropriate Valentine Colour, don't you think?

Massacure XMas Promo at the Hub.

Today we (Megs, Nicki, Kali, Mel and Kali Bear) trucked over to the Hub and joined our new salon "Stylistics" in an fun early Massacure promotion with a Christmas twist. Santa (Ian) placed pink cotton balls in his beard and shouted out to the campus "Free Gift Bags, picture with Santa, give a donation to the Massacure!!". In the background, Mel (our other stylist coordinator and human mascot) bellowed out to all passing by that they needed to cough up their change, 20's, 50's and hundreds will do!". Rudolph hit up the oncoming traffic with his shout outs - all resulting in 801.00 in donations in 2.5 hours. 200 gifts bags given out, compliments of the efforts of this salon.

Kali Bear entertained and yes he was too fat for Santa's lap so Santa sat on mine..... his. He even got a quick trim in the chair, while we were there.

Playing the mascot is evenly spread out between family members. His personality is quite unique (mischievous), so his character must be consistent. Kali's shift today resulted in a friendly, polite bear. The other shift - maybe not so much? Thankfully Santa did not get too upset with the groping incident, Rudolphs crumpled tail, the chase, missing cookies.......

Speaking of cookies...

Cookies By George donated cookies and sadly I caved. How could you not? I envisioned (with every bite) my acupuncturist shaking her finger at me (I am supposed to be off sugar and coffee...). She knew anyway, my racing pulse busted me.

Nicki forbid the coffee and handled this promotion very well for just being involved for only 1 month. As I was inside a bear, it was difficult to speak to the 3 camera men that came out from the 3 stations, so I asked Nicki to handle the interviews on my behalf. I never do this......

So, another good day. Lots of fun, little bit of mischief and no one is twitching so I deem this a success. Thank you Stylistics, peeps, and the campus for your generosity today.

I'm off.... (but you already knew that....)

Stylistics

Hi guys -

I just want to issue an invitation to come out to HUB Mall, easier if you are already on campus I know, and help raise money on Wednesday, December 2nd. From 11am- 2pm a bunch of us will be at Stylistics (HUB) and we're going to be having a great time - made only better if YOU show up! You can sit on Santa's knee, help pink his beard, and get a gift bag... Can't get any better than that! At the same time you can ask any questions about the Massacure or make an appt to go pink (there's a special deal if you do it on wednesday....just sayin').

Anyways, I hope to see a bunch of people out - because it really will be a good time and plus, there's food all around us in HUB and you can just be on your lunch break. I think you should come.

Warm and fuzzy thoughts for the crazy cold snap (hey! Minus 8 is cold after being above zero! Don't judge me.),

Nick