Another miraculous journey

Today is Friday the 13th. My first thought this day was "true to form - unlucky".

Ive since found the other side of this perspective.

Its been through much adversity and suffering (or witnessing of) that our family has come to witness so many miracles. Its the miracles that I refer to as the other perspective.

I have shared a few miraculous stories on this blog over the past 2 years, there are more.

Today I dedicate to a special little guy - a close member of our family.

His name is Shooter.

We acquired Shooter 9 years ago, on the day of Kali's 4th birthday (coming up in May).

Kali was in the midst of her 3 year chemo treatments when she presented the most chilling question I wish I could forget "Mommy, IF I live through my treatments, can I have a puppy?"

Our family dog had to live with my mom throughout her treatments, due to her lack of an immune system.

Needless to say, we took our daughter shopping for a suitable type of puppy.

This selection process took over a year, ensuring we would find her a perfect match.

Kali, with the fam chose a Papillion due to the low allergy coat, size and personality.

A world renouned breeder in Calgary was approached by a friend, pups on a waiting list for up too 3 years. There were no pups available however, this breeder felt compelled to fulfill this very important wish.

Weeks prior to Kali's birthday a pup surfaced in the most divine way.

It was the breeders TOP young grande champion puppy, bred to perfection complete with personality and intelligence.

Noted by judges as THE perfect canine, Shooter was making his mark in the circuit.

We watched him clean up at the shows we attended.

Ironically Shooter stopped growing at 7 months old.

His career was over as he no longer made spec for the judges.

Shooter was a very small dog, topping his grown weight at 6 pounds.

The breeder placed the call that we had been waiting so long for.

Our family had faith that IF Kali fought, she would be rewarded and the right companion would find his way to her. She was and he did.

Shooters personality was a perfect match for Kali - both innocent, sweet and charismatic.

Weeks to follow, Shooter had a check up and a neuter at the local vet- it was here that a progressive kidney disease was discovered.

Our puppy was acting unwell, but I could not believe his condition was as severe as presented to us.

How could THAT happen after all that Kali had been through.

His health further declined, rather quickly.

It was recommended by our vet that we return our pup to the breeder and ask for a new one.

She continued with "the breeder should be responsible for putting him down - he's in kidney failure".

This was not an option for us. Shooter was our family, not just a pet.

I sought out a second opinion that matched with the first vet. It was recommended that we put him to rest as the vet bills would put us further into the poor house only to save a few months of non quality life.

Again - no option.

I took our dog home and cracked open my books. I was practicing as a Master herbalist and studying as a Naturopathic Practitioner.

Homeopathics and a diet of raw moose meat infused with a herbs and phytonutrients resulted in success.

Within 12 months, to the vets surprise, Shooter regained full kidney function.

Increased energy lead Shooter to tear around the house with his favourite squeaky "monster" in his mouth, so much that a wipeout down the stairs left the little guy with a broken leg.

A custom made pin and a bright orange cast lead the first series of structural injuries this poor dog endured. Despite his aches and pains, Shooter exemplified the definition of "happy".

By the time Shooter was 6, his knees were shot.

He had a strong, unwavering will, but his constitution was very weak.

With the absence of cartilage between his joints he had shut down and could no longer bear weight.

Again the vet recommended that we choose to let him sleep as it was the most humane option with the pain he had endured.

I sadly agreed this time, but took him home to be with the family for a few more days to say goodbye.

Gord begged me to reconsider as he had a strong feeling that it was not his time - even though he was crippled. Gords intuition, when exercised is not something to be reckoned with. I agreed as I get those same moments.

Back to the remedies - luckily I was able to find success again.

Shooter was walking within 3 days - his pain subsided, tail wagging, eating, begging and in desperate search for his monster.

Shooter learned to compensate, redistributing his weight on elbows now walking like a bulldog. It wasn't ideal but it allowed mobility thus preserving quality of life.

We learned how easily one can break bones, body systems, virtually anything structural. IF you have your will and heart invested, its difficult to break spirit. This little guy taught us that everyday.

Last year, 2 weeks prior to Kali's birthday, Shooter had a massive stroke.

Initially he had lost vitals and slipped away in Mandys arms.

We went through the process of shock then loss as the kids wept over his body.

Then he came back. Our friend Marina who is a vet and lived close by came to his side.

We all united as a family and prayed over our doggie.

Hours later we determined that his fate was inevitable - we said our goodbyes again.

Gord and I took him to the emergency clinic (of course after midnight when most chris's happen).

As I pulled into the parking lot his ears perked.

Gord shared his little gut feeling again - he was feeling hesitant.

I placed him on the road and lo and behold, Shooter starting to walk.

Granted he was very crooked and weak, it was like he needed to prove something.

We proceeded inside to notify them that we had arrived.

Shooter struggled out of Gords arms so he could walk around and check out all the scents of the other critters in the building. Needless to say we took our dog home.

The kids were shocked to welcome him home.

The next 5 days were critical as he stayed at the clinic in the care of our good friend.

We all said our goodbyes a total of 3 times as he roller coastered along confusing the vets and us.

We finally brought him home, in a weakened but stable state.

Within one month, Shooter had made a full recovery. He was back on remedies.

The hoarding of monsters, begging for treats, chasing off big doggies and soliciting extra attention showcased his determination to remain as the charming alpha in our home.

One year later, Shooter fell into poor health again. He had been on a very gradual decline these past months and to be honest I did not expect he would last this long with all considered.

These past 2 days Shooter had reverted to the same symptoms and behaviours since his stroke last year.

I kept him comfortable by the fireplace and last night I sat close and gently stoked his fur, asking for his recovery only if it was in his destiny or allow my little guy to just go peacefully. No more fuss, no more aggressive treatments. Again, the only priority was quality of life.

I took Shooter into the clinic this afternoon.

The attending vet was the one who neutered him 9 years ago, pulled out half his teeth 5 years ago, and assisted with his care with the stroke. She knew how special he was.

I educated her about his connection with Kali.

With tears welling, she explained her findings today.

Gord, Mandy and I held our dog, tears dripping on the table as our Shooter peacefully slipped away. As sad as it was, it was beautiful to witness such a perfect passing.

He was not trembling, he was not in pain - he knew it was time.

In the end it was his heart that had finally tuckered out.

One can say that he was just a dog. He was our family.

He taught us about spirit. He taught us perseverance. He was fiercely loyal, he taught us that dogs DO love their owners. He was highly sensitive, like Kali - easy to please, easy to teach, easy to discipline, easy to love. Yes dogs have feelings. Like a child he coveted, everyday obsessing about who was touching his monsters. He was happy, everyday like a trooper - even on the bad days. He just knew he was special.

Arkeno-Rodeo-Life-of-the-Party (aka Shooter) We will never forget you.

Thank you for loving us.

long overdue update

Hi folks, this update has been long overdue.

As many of you may know from following our blog from past, post event becomes quite demanding and draining resulting in delayed updates and follow-ups.

Our sincere apologies if we have not yet followed up with you. We are working on it.

To start on a positive note, our 10th year event left us with a whopping 1 million by the day's end on Feb 3, and over 1.1 million on our post drop date (Feb 8). We thank Make-A-Wish for hosting our chaotic pre and post cash events and putting up with our craziness.

We say goodbye and thank you to Kelsey who has done an outstanding job with the tax receipting this past year. Kelsey had a most challenging task of sorting years of unresolved receipting issues

at the Stollery Foundation. We appreciate your dedication and work Kelsey - you will be missed.

We also say farewell to Brandi who moved back to a much less hectic position at the City of Spruce Grove where she one again manages events. Think her nerves have nicely settled since her departure with us. Brandi, we thank you for your administrative and organizational talents and great ideas. Hope you'll stay in touch.

We say "WELCOME" to Leslie Ritchie who's taken taken over Brandi's position. Leslie will be our new mom. :)

Leslie has been recently fitted with a ball and chain so she will not be able to leave us anytime soon. After volunteering on our most hectic days, Leslie has chosen to live Hair Massacure.

Jaime and I interpret that she loves chaos and high paced insanity. Leslie has 10 years of personal history with Jaime, so Jaime knows where she lives in case she tries to run.

Jaime has officially survived 7 events (in some capacity), however this year in particular proved to be THE most challenging in her new role as event manager. She was busy.

If I may touch on this - Jaime's background is management (in a C.R. role with McDonald's - 2200 employees).

She has done a phenomenal job managing HM and maintaining her sanity.

Admittedly I struggled letting go of certain responsibilities, not an easy task for a person who is accustomed to playing a role and overseeing nearly every area.

Eventually I learned to accept that I cannot manage all areas and am currently in the learning phase of adjusting to my new role (which we are still defining as Hair Massacure expands into new areas). We are growing, and this is exciting!

On a personal note:

BOTH Jaime and I have experienced an exorbitant amount of personal struggle and hardship since mid February. Family crisis and personal challenge primarily.

Not sure why we have both been challenged to this level, but I can tell you that neither of us will succumb to pressure - at least not yet.

We have both endured a lifetime of struggle, so I guess it will take heck of a lot to take us out of the game. I will say this: we are most thankful that these events did not find us during the campaign. Now that I look back, I believe there has been a distinct pattern of difficulties the follow each event. One may look at this negatively but the way I see it - the good Lord was looking after us putting off the inevitable until such a time that we could deal with it.

Through all of this, I am proud to share that Jaime has lost a total of 50 pounds and still going strong! While we are on a weight loss note - Congrats Tina MacQueen - 100 lbs!! Yay!!!!!!

Speaking of a lighter note:

Kali and I are adjusting to our new do's.

My hair is growing in - at the awkward stage where hats and hair glue are a staple.

Kali's new do is fabulous! A donated 14 inches of thick hair - my daughter has been growing this out since her last shave in 2007.

Braces off, Kali looks like an official teenager. Its hard to believe she's the bald little girl spinning around in the black and white video clip.

Its been difficult to promptly wrap up our event between the various distractions that have taken us away from task, but rest assured we are plugging away - and with Leslie's help we will be wrapped up by April's end.

Our total will be announced (donations are still coming in, so if you have any please send into Make-A-Wish or contact us via the website).

Ive decided to reveal my secret hope of years past - to beat the Stollery Radiothon (sorry Stollery, nothing personal). Its all for the good of the kids, just friendly competition. :)

Not sure if we will meet or beat the 1.3 yet, but we shall get darn close!

Stay tuned - May 1st will be our announced grand total of 2012.

We will also ensure we deliver our outstanding thank yous and acknowledgments. So sorry for the delays if this applies to you.

We want to express our sincere gratitude for all levels of commitments to Hair Massacure.

With 10 years past us, Jaime and I are looking to implement a wee bit of "new".

Not sure what that looks like yet, but if YOU have ideas, we'd sure love to hear about them.

Stay tuned for more updates.

We hope not to delay our next blog.

Cheers

History of Hair Massacure part 1 - humble beginnings

Our 10 year journey with Hair Massacure. Year 1 (2003)

Oct 31, 2002 it all began - Humble beginnings of Hair Massacure.

The afternoon of halloween became the catalyst of what would be a movement that would

change our lives forever.

Kali's counts were safe this beautiful fall day for an outing to Walmart - a trip for last minute costume shopping.

it was a good day, no a great day - an outing with a comfortable little girl sporting a smile - this became my new luxury.

I popped Miss Kali into the cart and off we went in search of a witches wig.

Bombing around the store felt free and fun, like a field trip.

Outings were never taken for granted as typically Kali's immune system would not have enough juice to fight outside exposures (a common lifestyle for the cancer patient).

Recalling the previous Halloween with a swollen 3 year old, pumped up on steroids and pain killers, there was little cause to celebrate.

A perfect wig chosen, placed atop my daughter's cute little head, we headed for the till.

Going through, I noticed the wig was blemished as pieces were falling out. A return to the wig isle, i noted that all of the wigs were falling apart, an obvious sign of their price markdown.

Tugging at the last wig, my heart sunk. I felt my chest cave, it was hard to breathe. A panicked realization indicated that the wigs were just fine.

Consumed with shock I tugged at my daughters hair. I froze as though chilled to the bone as the piece stayed in my hand.

I looked down intuitively knowing I'd see more clumps laying at the wheels of my cart. Apparently hair loss is possible sometimes during the last few months of treatment. I didn't understand at the time.

The shock on my face could not be revealed. it was Kali's day today. No pain, decent counts, and energy to spare to properly celebrate Halloween ... it felt like a form of punishment for having this blessing.

It took everything I had to hide the fact that her hair was falling out again.

Despite my efforts, I don't think I could have concealed it very well.

I phoned Gord, struggling for the numbers in the dial pad and proceeded to tell him.

I needed to hear his voice. I could hear him choke behind his words "it will be ok".

It wasn't ok the first time it happened.

Reflecting on our little girl's previous devastation, we had witnessed the long lasting effects of the destruction of a 2 year old's self esteem. Tears with each reflection in the mirror, suspicion with every smile towards her indicated to her, a mockery of her bald head.

Kali's new hair was at now her shoulders, flecks of gold riveting though natural blonde highlights and beautiful curls proudly tousled around as she walked. She was so proud to feel so pretty again.

When Gord returned home from work, he had put some serious thought into how to make the most out of this 3rd bout of hairless.

Being an optimist, his plan would not erase her reaction, but his hopes were that it might offer a productive celebration in her name.

He would host a headshave at his place of work (Canada Post). It would be a fundraiser for Kids With Cancer Society and it would be in honour of our Kali. He was excited.

He coined it the "St. Valentine's Day Hair Massacre". I LOVED it! EVERYONE loved it!

What a brilliantly fun play on words.

The name and concept caught on and lured 48 people from the postal plant and friend from our karate school. Nadine Brokenshire (Gord co-worker, and eventually dear friend) was the first female victim that Gordon strategically coerced to shave. He then cleverly used Nadine's participation to play me.

I was not going to fall for his tricks. I was NOT shaving my head. I would help, but my hair was staying as the mere thought of it scared you know what out of me.

Gordon can sell snow to an eskimo.

His clever statement that this "Nadine person" who had bravely signed up doesn't even have any children - was the noose around my neck.

Colourful language promoted a wide grin of satisfaction. I wanted to punch him but both of us were so well conditioned as blackbelts, it wouldnt have made an impact, so instead I called my best friend Claire to vent.

Claire lost little Meagan the year before at the young age of 14 months. She was still in mourning.

In contrast to her pain, Claire was also high spirited and quite a character, so the idea of shaving heads seemed fun to her.

"I'll do it!!" was her response. Oh excellent..... I was losing my hair.

With God's grace, Kali's hair fell out in the most inconspicuous areas.

To our surprise, all of the hair around her crown area fell out leaving long layers overtop to cover the patches.

From the back and side it was barely visible, from her reflection in the mirror - concealed. With barrettes and hair pins, we were able to keep our Kali completely unaware..

Planning was very energetic, this turn of events was right up Gordon's alley.

Cell glued to his cheek, clipboard in hand Gord was recruiting and inspiring. The post office was very supportive of his new distraction.

Gord had our little printer smokin', reloading after his shifts and throughout the middle of the night.

We incurred all of the expenses that were not donated while living on a deficient income for a family of 6, in bankruptcy.

We had both lost our previous incomes due to Kali's treatment.

Gordon's business crashed as he prioritized precious and uncertain time with our daughter.

Shifts in the rocking chair was necessary as morphine did not seem to touch the pain that consumed our baby. Money was sparse, we were still being supported by the community and family donations but this was fundraiser was important.

My role was minimal in the first years.

I invited my friend and fellow karate student - Stacey Abdella to help us with the shave. Stacey recruited co-worker Shauna Buist from Spasation (Stacey and Shauna are still with us).

My involvement seemed to fall mostly on the marketing side, creating visual materials (posters, etc) to entice folks to support or participate and enticing the papers to write about it.

Headshaves were common, it was a challenge to market this one as special.

It all seemed divine, falling into place. In retrospect I KNOW it was, and continues to be.

All of the pictures I had taken during Kali's treatment came in handy, the controversial ones reflecting her pain in particular.

I did not care whom I offended at the time I pulled out my camera, I captured EVERYTHING.

I was not about to show the world what my daughter went through with rose coloured glasses. This was our reality. This was around us all day, every day - in all 14 rooms at Ped Oncology in the Stollery and Cross Cancer.

I raised a few thousand that year. Insulted by any pledges under 100.00, I would not settle for less.

I was deathly scared to lose my hair and 20 bucks was not going to make me feel better.

Gordon did well with his pledges too. Like I said, it's difficult to say "no" to this man.

Media came to our headshave. Steve Antel hosted from Breakfast television. He was spectacular! I will never forget his infamous line of "Begin the shaving, yes indeed!".

14 rocking chairs were donated to us (thanks to the tireless efforts of a recruited co-worker and crazy newfie -Derrick). The chairs were showcased in an assembly line pulled by a forklift as seen in our 2012 video on our website.

Gordon was after cash. I was after chairs, as we only has 2 to share among 14 rooms in Peds Oncology. We both got our wish.

37,000 was raised that day, Our shave was 2 hours long.

Nadine lead the shave, Steve shaving her on BT. Gordon was in the middle, I was at the end .... won't say what I was doing in my pants.

Kali assisted with both our shaves as her tiny self stood on a stool with clenched hands wrapped around the clippers, Stacey supporting her.

This started a long tradition of inviting cancer kids to participate in the shaves. She LOVED it. A renewed association with a bald head, we could see that it was healing for her.

My turn. I knew I could run faster than those clippers but there was no escaping ... I was doing this.

My daughter behind me, I tilted my head back so she could reach and just let it happen. I was forever changed.

I can't explain the feeling that overtook the fear, but I would best describe it as indescribable satisfaction.

I was glad that Gord worked me, he needed to. I needed to do this and my daughter needed to see me support her.

With energized excitement, it was my turn to shave Claire. She wasn't afraid, Claire was a daredevil.

I loved the feeling of running the clippers though her hair. I found her screams exciting and fun.

Little did I realize I was burning her scalp with scalding clippers. I guess that was kinda fun too.

The "strawberry birthmark" on the back of her head apparently was not natural pigment. This too is captured in our 2012 video as she shouts my name.

37 Proud Victims gathered for the first and only fully captured photo, sporting black embroidered toques donated to us by Elite Sportsware.

The cash was counted with help and proudly turned into Kids With Cancer Society. A new plan for next year already in place.

Who would have known how our lives would change.

Thanks to our founder,Gord the St.Valentine's Day Hair Massacre was a success.

The name, the feeling, the connection in the room. We all felt it.

More history as follows:

2004-2005

St.Valentine's Day Hair Massacre reunited in Canada Post with larger followings.

2004 brought forth 98 Proud Victims, 98,000.00 and a new blanket warmer for Peds Oncology (a necessity for children on chemo enduring bouts of chills). There was no agreement from our chosen charity to purchase this much needed item (valued at 5,000) from our near 100,000 handed in so I proceeded to petition with 100 signatures of Oncology parents.

A blanket warmer was purchased along with an agreement to budget an additional 7,000 for a support group that I would run with close friend and fellow parent Carol Dizak.

This year I sat as a parent liaison with the Kids With Cancer Society.

To be honest, I did not feel as though I belonged with this group however we needed a parent to act on behalf of the needs of the parents, so I "slipped" myself in there for a short spell (long enough to stir the pot and collect some necessary items on the lists of the parents and nursing staff).

It was my first introduction to a board, which ultimately shaped the development of our current committees (which I will add are more personal and casual - not right or wrong, just my personal preference).

Gord, hard at work again recruiting proud victims and sponsorships for t-shirts, toques, and posters.

Our home became very busy in these winter months planning for these little "Massacre's", still supported by family dime, family time.

Again, good friends and co-workers Jill, Nadine and Derik joined forces with Gordon to help plan, solicit goods and count money.

Extended family members gathered in our basement combing over simple pledge forms and counting piles of money laid out on our livingroom floor.

Bridget Ryan became our host this year on Breakfast Television and Stacey returned with Shauna and more stylists from Spasation.

Derik braved the cold February and slept in a tent for a week with a 10,000 goal to release him from the elements. Food was donated to keep him nourished and increased publicity created over his creativity.

2005 was a difficult year as we were also focused on our 2nd oldest daughter's health issues (Mandy). Mandy had developed a growth on her kidney and was scheduled immediately after the event for surgery.

On the day of her admission, Mandy was admitted to Peds Oncology at the Stollery. A last minute Pre-Op exam indicated that her tumor was cancerous and again our world was flipped upside down.

Recovering in the very room Kali was admitted in, Mandy was eventually released as "benign", but not without complications. Her next 6 months involved home care and missed school.

Just prior to, the 2005 event called upon 167 proud victims and generated 167,000.00 to be divided between Kids With Cancer and Make-A-Wish. Our second year to average 1000 per victim.

Again Bridget Ryan returned with a visit from the boys from the Bear (fearless Fred and ).

The RCMP were involved this year, lead by a female Constable who was a fellow parent from the K Division.

This year would have been our biggest turning point and I believe it was this modification that put us on the map:

Days prior to the event on the 14th (our traditional date) Gord came home from work expressing much frustration with his fundraising efforts. He explained with arms flailing that it is far too fashionable for men to be bald.

In an unthought mutter of release, he threatened that men aught to dye their hair pink - that would surely draw some added attention.

A huge light went on - I saw it. "DO IT!"

Its perfect, its brilliant!

Gord was simply venting.

After some heightened encouragement, a bet was made.

I was NOT letting this go.

I challenged Gord to approach the guys at work with this PINK notion and IF they were agreeable, I was gonna make this happen (even if only days before).

IF they were not agreeable, I would totally let the idea go.... (no true, I totally would have reneged on that one).

The next day Gordon returned from work, face telling the story that I was going to be doing some scrambling.

I think he was a starting to like this idea.

I placed a panicked call into our friend Stacey and asked her if she knew of where one could find pink hair colour. She hooked us up.

Next call into Bridget Ryan. My vision was for a "Pinking" on Breakfast television prior to the shave.

If you know Bridget, this was a no-brainer, she LOVED it too!

Gordon collected his willing "pinkiees" at work and I sought out for some of my own.

I needed kids, I knew kids would totally get into it.

Our karate school was the perfect environment to approach folks to support. The school had already demonstrated huge support to our family.

Next- our daughter Kyrsti, she was close to Tims age (roughly 8) She would jump at this as it in her character to see a vision and support it.

Kyrsti had shaved the year before in support of a close young friend Alexis who had relapsed. This year would be simply creative and breaking of new ground - heck it was simply weird and fun.

I selected a young lad (Tim Evans), I knew Tim would be more than agreeable (I hoped his parents felt the same).

The pinking was a success.

In the midst, a camera man put down his camera and announced "Im in".

We had a good mix of pink this year, including a pinking at the RCMP K Division.

WHo would have thought how this particular last minute turn of events would ultimately change the nature and personality of Hair Massacure as we know it.

Challenges and Triumphs

It’s hard to believe the 10th Anniversary Hair Massacure is almost over. Now some of you are thinking to yourselves “Brandi is crazy! I was at the Mall, it was almost 2 weeks ago – it IS over”. While it may be true that I am a bit crazy, it’s also true that there are still lots of things going on with HM. If you consider all the mini-events throughout the year, you’ll understand what I mean:

Planning Committee meetings, Santa at Ronald McDonald House, Pink Campaign kickoff, media interviews, school presentations, more group meetings, Captain meetings, volunteer orientation and training, pre-drop, post-drop, Red Deer Massacure, etc. etc. etc… oh, and NEW - the family ski night at Rabbit Hill on March 4. I think you can see how we’ve started to refer to this as “the event that never ends” (to the tune of “this is the song that never ends”)…

This year has brought its share of challenges and triumphs. I’d like to share a few of them with you, because there was a lot going on behind the scenes. (This feels a bit like a December 31st radio “Year in Review” program – lol)

Challenge: Hair Massacure has grown to a point where it needs more support, and some highly-motivated help.
Triumph: Hire Jaime Caza as the Project Manager. Jaime has more energy than I could have imagined, and if anyone can keep up with Hair Massacure, she’s the one.

Challenge: The online registration and donation site is difficult to work with. How can we make it better, and fast?
Triumph: Find a new provider, and switch over Christmas holidays. Check! While this transition was not without its bumps and glitches, overall this has been an amazing transition. The team at Registration Logic is so great to work with and I think that once the dust settles the “wish list” for next year will address the outstanding issues. It’s going to be great!

Challenge: Our website is pretty great, but it’s content heavy and a bit outdated.
Triumph: First, spend the summer combing through every single page to see what we can eliminate, combine, or tweak. Then, meet Purelogic Solutions and hear these words: “We can design a whole new site for you and have it ready before the event, as part of an overall social media strategy”. Wow. We love it. Thanks Carmelle and company :)

Challenge: Maintain the momentum of two years at a million dollars each.
Triumph: Smash through it! Raise over $600,000 online alone, then break the million-dollar mark before the February 3 headshave was even finished. That was an amazing moment. Since the donations are still coming in, it’s really hard to wait to see where the total will end up – but we know it’s going to be well ahead of 2011. That’s a nice feather in an anniversary cap.

Challenge: Pull off an organized, clean event without showing everyone all the challenges behind the scenes.
Triumph: Oooops… I guess I just blew it… sorry…

Well anyway, those are some of my thoughts as this event comes to a close. What an amazing group of people (HM and the three charities, plus all the volunteers) that bring this million-dollar plus fundraiser together. While everyone brought something very valuable to the table, there are a few who stood out above the crowd for me this year. You know who you are… and you are very special people. Thank you.

Tammy's Updates.

I haven't written a blog for quite sometime. I miss it, but quite frankly there is no more space in Tammy brain for words at the end of the day, nor time to write it. EVERY day there is a blog in my head.

Lets see... from Jan 10 -

Pink Kick off on Breakfast TV went very well - 50 pinkees! Packed the house - over 20 AAA Hockey players in jerseys, Totem managers, teachers / students, our infamous Paul L to name a few. Bridget Ryan hosted her 8th pinking! Prior to the segment, unloaded more than coffee and cream in front of the hockey players unpacking my car (cream spilled everywhere...), tricked Pat (our school rep / registration Goddess) into kissing a mannequin head, bantered with Romy our photographer, and left "pinked" (thanks Megs and Mel).

FRED's pinking at the shop (Krazy Klipz) went well. Mandy and I did not turn him purple like last year. He is looking "normal" to us now when he's pink and he's touring LOTS of places.

3 year old girl at a school presentation politely asks if she can pet my llama ... wanted to a blog about that.

FRED "self soothing" himself during presentations and tv interviews. If it weren't for the sounds, I may not clue in and tug the leash.

Folks are still asking if this is his real natural colour. I say yes.

We have a new website! Its totally sponsored by Pure Logic (WE LOVE you Carmel) and a new on-line registration page. Few glitches from the switch, but WAY better that before.

Kali and I are both participating. Have no time to solicit for pledges. Hope my head is worth something in the end....

LOTS of schools and teams this year! EXCITING! Kids helping kids.....

This is neat....

One of our cheer kids we coach approached me in practice with pictures from 07 (her first shave).

Little did I know she was the same little girl who missed the Massacure at the mall and found her way to Make-A-Wish to get shaved up (while we were unloading that night). Small world. This is her fifth year participating.

That was a blog in my head about repeats (which BLOWS my mind that folks return year after year).

Drove around with Kali last weekend popping into as many Save Ons, Totems, and McD's as we could to say hi and thank you for selling Kali Bears, Kali Pink, hard hats - took note of passing our many busses and billboards with the 3 boys. Speaking of that (and repeats) - the mom emailed us!

I was so curious if we would ever hear of them or their reactions (they will be returning for their 5th year!). Yay!

I KNOW there is more but I can't remember it all....

Brandi and Jaime, Christie and Pat, Darcy and myself all going nuts trying to keep up with HM - ..... another blog.

Brandi has no time to attend events this year (I feel bad for her) as she's swallowed up by tasks / inquiries flooding in. Jaime's shedding serious pounds just chasing, Pat choked me again last week during a pinking, Christie hair looks like she's been electrocuted (wonder why...) and Darcy is all by himself in Red Deer taming the beast.

I am doing ok. Little tired. Threw out another toothbrush confusing Preparation H (for the eyes...) with my Colgate, showed up for Global interview with "pink eye" - clued in and moved my nose drops away from my eye drops on my night stand, using plastic baggies for dental floss (not a good idea to apply lipstick prior to), still driving around with bottles of hair colour in my cup holders, and auto correct in my phone continues to get me in trouble.

Having an inside battle with "letting GO of things (tasks that others can manage), that shall be an upcoming blog.

On the "not so good..."

My little cousin has had 4 comas since mid December. We are worried sick about that. Visited her today at Stollery. She's my special little kid, always with a smile.

A family very dear to us (who participated 2 years ago) are praying hard for their son Auston as he awaits specialized radiation to hopefully shrink a tumour on the brain stem,

my step mom is going for open heart surgery in a couple of weeks (a possible effect from the 25 radiation treatments last spring on her left breast), and tomorrow I shall take my dad for his post heart attack tests which we are booth apprehensive about.

Lots going on....

Hope to be in touch soon!

Christmas updates

Hi folks, Merry belated Christmas!

First update shall be about my little cousin Taylor. I am pleased to say that my Taylor was released to our family just in time for a mid afternoon Christmas meal. Still weak and shaken from her ordeal in ICU, Taylor managed to endure a couple of hours of visiting from the couch (with a smile).

Ironically the first thing she came out with upon entering my moms house was "Kali, what did you do to your wrist?" These kids are like that.

Kali really didn't know what to say. A fracture pales in comparison to a coma.

Despite the fact that Santa greeted Taylor (and all kids) at the Stollery - with his full on sleigh, toy bag and gifts - our family felt that his delivery of her to US was by far the best.

It was a great Christmas. I still don't care about the gifts.

But I aint gonna lie... I care about the food.

Jaime is in BC with her family visiting with her dad who was also just released from ICU. I know she is feeling helpless in regards to his health.

As parents we have the authority and ability to control the situation with our children's health, living conditions, exposures, etc.

Any parent that chooses to opt out of nurturing - I personally feel you should be tarred and feathered at the very least .... (just sayin'... ).

As children of older parents, we do not have that control unless it has progressed to extreme conditions where power of attorney takes effect. Sometimes after all of our support, all of our efforts, advice and resources exhausted - all we can do is pray for them and watch for the outcome.

I speak from experience as my own father and step mom are both recently fighting very serious health issues that have turned our family to prayers.

Jaime is praying too and soaking up precious time with her family in BC.

I am soaking my family at home. <3

Unfortunately winter months (campaign season) are not conducive to connecting with family very much, so this break has been very nice.

Brandi... well we believe she is on a lovely well deserved holiday (at least thats was her story when she left). Smoke and screetch from her tires in the Make-A-Wish parking lot Friday at 5 may have indicated she needed a break.

The GPS we fastened to her ankle when we took off the shackles has lost signal. Jaime and I have our fingers crossed... but then again - she really does love us. :)

A few more day after new years and the campaign will explode.

With HM on Feb 3, we have a very short window to cram our chaos into. I suspect lots of caffeine chocolate and Ritalin (for me) will be on the list.

Here are a few updates for you:

McDonalds Corporate Restaurants (BIG returning sponsor) shall be selling Kali Bears again as well as feeding our 400 volunteers (BTW - these paper kali bears were Jaime's brainchild when she implemented them years back as the C.R.)

Totem - our new BIG sponsor shall be selling Kali Bears and Pink Hard Hats (brain child of Paul Liimatainen years back - implemented by Paul Hobbs GM of Totem AB). Just discovered Kali Bears as far south as Lethbridge and north Grand Prairie!

Save On Foods - (returning BIG sponsor) shall be selling Kali Bears and Kali Pink / bleach and hair extensions in all Northern Alberta locations!

Corus Radio - Along with our returning big media sponsor CISN, they shall have CHED and JOE in tow this year - very excited to work with all of them!

West Edmonton Mall - if you haven't heard yet - they have donated the Ice Palace!

Romy Young Photography - will be working with us on creative design (check out our Xmas photos included in this blog), capturing and organizing photos and a promo video for next year.

We have a new social media sponsor (excited to share more SOON) - Pure Logic Solutions!

We have of course more wonderful sponsors that shall be showcased throughout this blog at a later time, just wanted to update on the new exciting items.

Stay tuned for more - perhaps another sponsor or too shall bless us for this anniversary event.

Tam

When Kailey got her wish!

I would love to share for you my families experience with our daughter being a recipient with Make-A-Wish.

I want to tell you specifically about the day she received the news that she would be getting to make a wish.

My daughter has had to fight for her life, literally since the moment she was born.....12 years ago.

When we first were told of Kailey being selected we were overwhelmed with many emotions. Grateful, Joy but to be honest it was a little sad too. To have your child selected it means they suffer with a "life threatening illness". The reality of this, to be blunt is that if Kailey gets sick or any cold, and it enters her lungs or even if she was to take a sip of a glass of water, we could lose our daughter.

This is something that as a parent of a child in this predicament, you avoid acknowledging. We strive to make Kailey's life as normal as possible and enjoy every healthy breath and once in a while it settles in just how scared you are. For me, her being selected was one of those moments. We knew Kailey was going to be presented with this moment a couple weeks before, so it was a good "processing time". When you have a sick child you are often riddled with guilt, what if's and wish I would of or wish I could just moments. I had time to "process" my crap and decide to take in the joy that this wish was going to mean.

So off to the Make-A-Wish building in the west end of Edmonton with a bunch of the people that could make it that morning and that have been a part and watched Kailey through many battles. Dad, Me, Gramma (my mom), Auntie Christie and Kailey's long time aide Teresa. I knew Marta, (at the time she worked with MAW) and Tammy was our volunteer wish granter. We piled into the office and I am sure Kailey had no clue what was going on. Marta then begins to tell Kailey what MAW is about and delivers the news "Kailey, you have been nominated by your incredible doctor (our beloved angel Dr.McGonigle) to make a wish.

I look at my beautiful daughters face and in that second remember how many times we watched this precious face in sheer pain, held her down for needles and procedures and locked our eyes and hearts on the medical monitors begging God to PLEASE let her stay with me. Instead this time I see absolute JOY. I am thinking about how amazing this child is, thank God for her stubborn nature.

Kailey looks confused, excited and just in awe. We take a minute to clarify, "Kailey, YOU are getting to wish for anything or to meet anyone you want!" She bursts into laughter...it takes her little time to say "I WISH TO MEET JOE JONAS!!!!" I was not surprised! Marta explains that she has to make 3 wishes just in case they can't facilitate one..she looks astounded..."I WISH TO SWIM WITH DOLPHIN's" and "MEET ZAC EFRON"!! As we all cry and enjoy this the happiness my daughter is feeling I realize that she has already begun to change because of this wish and she has not even known for one hour yet! I see confidence bursting from her smile like I have never seen before.

As we walk to the car, I look at her face deep in thought and I ask this little miracle what she is thinking and this 9 year old child says to me something that I will never forget and she has no idea how profound the statement is. But with this statement it exactly describes the reason wishes for children in her position are so vital as we all know the child with spirt and joy has the energy to continue to fight.

Kailey says to me " This is the first time in my life that I have actually been given something because of my disability and not had something taken away". This is so accurate.

This is why I am so passionate about this organization. I saw my daughter change that day and we now have this wonderful memory to focus on when she is having a bad day or is not well. That's a gift I do not know how to ever say enough thanks for.

Praying for Taylor

I find a lot of irony in this particular blog.

This will be the 2nd Taylor that I have requested prayers for in the past year.

I thank God for the miracluous success with little Taylor (#1) who fought all odds last year with the rapidly growing tumours in her brain that called for an urgent widespread prayer chain. Taylor had an estimated 3 weeks left ... she's been recently captured in the cutest pics sitting on Santas knee (where I believe all children should be sitting close to Christmas time).

Now Im praying for a new Taylor. My Taylor.

She's my little cousin who I adopted as "my little kid" dating back to when she was born. We spend every Christmas together and now Im struggling with the second piece of irony.

My last 2 blogs:

http://hairmassacure.blogspot.com/2011/12/take-it-all-in.html

http://hairmassacure.blogspot.com/2011/12/climbing-out-of-christmas-despair.html

both reflect children suffering in hospital - going through the holiday season.

How could I have known that days after my last blog that another young family member would be taken to this place.... that I would return to this place.

Im feeling torn between my own selfish feelings and triggers and feelings for Taylor and all of the kids at Stollery right now. I shouldnt take this internally, I feel guilty for doing so.

I learned yesterday that its packed in Stollery right now :(

I also learned that Taylor was just transferred from ICU (a good thing) to 4E3 (our old stomping ground - Peds Oncology). Yuck.

I will return for a visit tomorrow and I will wear a smile for her, but inside Im absolutely dreading it. I don't want to go back in there at Christmas time, but again this is not about me.

Taylor was taken in this week by ambulance from her school. From what I understand she fell into her coma right there and then. Taylor is diabetic among other threatening conditions that impede her birthright to be healthy and normal.

When Taylor woke up a couple of days later, we breathed a sigh of relief until we learned that

her condition is still not understood and they are just treating symptoms.

Again, through the sick worry we are all so grateful that she is at the Stollery. She is really getting the best care she could receive in the country.

My last visit with her in ICU reflected a ton of teasing followed by soft little giggles.

I would not go in there and feel heavy, instead I would be the same Tammy that she is accustomed to.

I asked her why she chose this particular method of skipping school, what was up with her hair, why she decides to take "naps" in the middle of the day and why she seems to think she needs a higher IV tower than everyone else? I told her that when she decides to cause some trouble I would help her, and that I was gonna tell on her to my daughter Meagan about the hair thing (Megs is her hair stylist).

Every giggle was like music, every smile was gold.

Still I left feeling like I had been hit by a truck (and I really have - so I know the feeling).

I dont understand why some children are meant to suffer and why "bad guys" often go unscathed.

Like everyone who has lost or been affected by a suffering child - we feel desperate and helpless at the same time.

I will update my Christmas visit to Stollery, stay tuned.

Jaime's Gadgets

Something you would learn about me rather quickly is how much I love new gadgets. I love iPods and iPads and if my husband had not locked the shopping channel, I will believe that you NEED to boil eggs in little cups and all I need is one more hand blender. I love any kind of object that makes life easier. Why wouldn't I? Life as a working mom is busy and any little job means more time with my kids...lol...or my gadgets.

The problem I have is that the gadgets don't see to like me! I have had my computer crash more times than I can count, I think I may be on a list somewhere to mail viruses to me to see if they work! And they always do! So what did I do to combat this issue? I started learning how to back my files up, the problem with that is that I actually have experienced my back up files crashing! So, to be ahead of this I decide to back up my back up files...now I am so confused as to where the files are and even more confused than when my computer crashes!

Then there is the battery problem, I have spent more hours searching for chargers than the average person spends sleeping! I seem to run out battery power more often than any other person I know. I am quite confident my skin gives off a battery charge that helps to drain batteries! I have owned more cameras than your can imagine due to the fact that I have lose the chargers!

So, is it no surprise then when I get introduced to the world of the "Mac" computers I would suffer serious frustrations?? Thank god for Glen Peters and his super powers of fixing Jaime's computer issues...over and over and OVER again...I think when he hears a DING in the middle of the night he is now accustomed to to thinking, " what did she do now?"

So I finally get up and running and learn some cool tricks and decide, I need to own an iPad! There is this new wonderful gadget called, "iCloud"! Not only does it sound really cool, I am positive this will make my life so much easier! My hubby should have booked Glen for his duration of Christmas holidays before he decided this ipad would be the perfect Christmas gift for me!

Glen made plans to go home with his OWN family for Christmas and I am not sure I will be okay without my super computer fixing friend! So, in the 3 days I have owned this iPad ( we opened presents early in my house due to traveling for Christmas), Glen had to update my entire system on my Mac. His first mistake was sending me home With the computer installing as it was taking a really long time, but he was confident I could handle this and the system would walk me through what to do next! So, I thought I did that right, whew! Quite chuff with myself I decide, I am on fire and I can handle updating the new iPad, then set up the cloud! I discover late at night (cause that's when my computer crashing skills are the strongest) I have lost the capability in the upgrade to use microsoft word or excel files...problem..ALL MY FILES ARE WORD OR EXCEL!!!!

Again Glen hears the DING at 11:30 at night and replies back....again...What did you do????

I know this may sound spoiled but I know not to worry to much, because super Glen, I know, will get me up and running...again...and I am sure in the near future...again.

Thank you Mr. Super fixing friend for all your incredible patience....DING..I need help!

What I REALLY want for Christmas

Well, here we are just four sleeps until Christmas. As I recently said on Twitter - that count only applies if you are actually sleeping :)

We put so much pressure on ourselves to do more, buy more, be more at this time of year, don't we? Why is that? Truth be told most of us have everything we need. Friends and family ask "What do your kids/you want/need for Christmas?" in genuine hopes of fulfilling wishes. The honest answer would usually be "Nothing". Yes, maybe we could do with a new pair of slippers (mine are actually my crocs) or a new waffle iron (cause I really like waffles) or a new... wait - I can't say more in case my kids read this! But my point is we actually don't need more stuff.

What I'd really like this Christmas is the ability to slow down, unplug from technology, and just be in the moment. I'd like to watch the excitement in my son's eyes when he opens the BIG box behind the tree from his Nana instead of rushing to clean up the paper. I'd like to linger in the moment when my daughter sees the thoughtfully chosen gift from her brother. And I'd like to savour the laughter that I know is going to come when my honey opens the little-bitty box in the corner.

What I often lack is the ability to stop thinking. Stop planning. Stop evaluating. I wish I could just "be". Maybe it's a learned thing. And I'm really trying to learn it. My goal this year is to slow down and not let the little pressures get to me so much. Working at HM, you'd think I would have automatically grown more able to appreciate the little things - considering the families we meet are struggling with such heart-wrenching situations. Don't get me wrong, I do appreciate small victories (mine are often associated with finishing a document or solving a process-related problem). I just wonder why all these pressures still get to me when I should be more grateful for all I have and what goes right.

So, my wish for all of us this Christmas is that we do some of the things we talk about. Hug more, smile more, worry less, slow down and be in the moment. Remember the line that says "Life isn't about the breaths we take, but the moments that take our breath away". I wish you LOTS of those moments.

Merry Christmas,
Brandi

Take it all in

I have been reflecting today. My rekindled Christmas spirit that I spoke about in my last blog is still alive and well.

I am visiting with my cousin Becky, a dedicated Missionary from South Africa.

Becky has been away from the family for 6 years now, beckoned by God to leave her long standing job with Telus and all of her possessions to help children in a far away land. Her obedience to the divine message has allowed all of the necessary doors to open which have provided her with everything she needs to sustain herself as a missionary.

Coming back to Canada once a year continues to be a culture shock for her.

Children afflicted with Aids and Hep B surround her daily, lives lost weekly, stabbings, corruption and poverty - everyday life. She chooses to embrace. She does not see kids in hospital beds - this is for the rich.

There are no toys, no teddy bears, wishes for kids, Christmas trees, carols, fancy baking, or fundraising events.

The children need food and medicine. They need support, education, and healthy mentorship.

Its all about perspective.

What Im reflecting about is OUR children here.

If you have children, or are an older sibling, or have some type of relationship with a child - give them your time.

Invest in the development of their character.

Play cards or a board game. Its remarkable how a simple game can teach a child so many values and life skills.

A game can provide opportunity to teach a child healthy competition, patience, self confidence, strategy, loosing gracefully and developing genuine excitement for your winning opponent.

Many valuable social skills can be developed within such a simple little opportunity.

So why do we opt for technology as parents?

As society leans towards virtual connections and television, our children and teens are living and playing independently. They miss out on these vital social opportunities.

As Becky pointed out to me - "its like we all live on our own little islands".

In the Christmas season - bake cookies with your kids.

Construct a gingerbread house.

Plan and cook your Christmas meal as a family.

Build a snowman.

Go skating on a pond.

Take in a hay ride.

Visit with friends and family.

Sing some carols.

Pick up some real games for your family.

Then think of the kids that cannot do these things.

There are quietly fighting in hospital beds.

Many of them cannot have family around them due to compromised immune systems.

Many are not wishing for toys, gadgets or things - they have greater wishes.

In a blink of an eye, our kids will grow up and start their own lives.

Grab your kid and play a game.

Climbing out of Christmas despair

11 years ago, we spent Christmas in the Peds Oncology unit at the Stollery.

Our daughter Kali at the age of 2 1/2 was more aware of her current state of being than most 10 year olds.

She fully understood that Christmas was not going to be experienced in the same way it was portrayed by the visual clues around her.

Christmas is cosmic fun and excitement to a child. Families celebrating, visiting Santa at the mall, singing carols, eating goodies and the heightened anticipation of Santa's visit (whats inside my presents?) is magic for kids.

Children aught not to be praying for their lives so as not to devestate their families in their permenent absence during the festive season. We saw plenty of this with the older kids.

With our Kali, it was simply a crushing of her little spirits that we watched helplessly.

A child needs their family around them during celebration and crisis - not in Oncology.

Sadly, the presense of family to a child lacking an immune system will place their fragile lives at great risk.

Cancer patients cannot enjoy home baking due to handling (germs), therefore festive baking must be secretly consumed by immediate family members away from the patient.

To ask family and friends to leave the hospital or your home is beyond awkward, in some cases it destroys relationships due to a lack of understanding its severity. Its also very lonely without ones peeps.

Visiting the mall to see Santa and Christmas displays is not an option when white counts are critically low (which is often).

Lining up with other children to sit on Santas knee is simply out of the question.

So then what is Christmas? It's redefined.

It means "Im too sick to get out of my bed to watch the snow fall, too sick to eat Christmas baking, to weak to sing or celebrate with family .... (hmmmm .... celebrate what??),

I just want Christmas to be over".

To be surrounded by such despair can truly impair a parents perspective about Christmas or any other celebratory occasion.

I can't speak for Gord, but for myself it has taken me 11 years to find the festive spirit and embrace it.

Our first Christmas, (inside our modified lifestyle) lead me down a path of holiday resentment.

I did not want any exposures around me - no tree, no decorations, no carols, (baking... well I compromised).

Treatment left us flat broke with no opportunity to leave our child to shop, so the salvation army paid a visit to our home with a Christmas meal and gifts for our kids. It was humbling to say the least.

Gifts and baking flooded in from our community and karate school.

My mom (who's all about Christmas) bypassed her grinch daughter and brought over a tree and decorated it for the other girls left at home.

I had selfishly robbed my other kids of their right to celebrate.

Mom was NOT ok with that. I received her gentle kick to the derrière with humility.

Appreciation and gratitude for these kind gestures were fully experienced, but not enough to lure me into the festive spirit.

Even the surprise visit from Santa at Stollery Christmas morning - via a real sleigh (assembled in Stollery), and an authentic massive bag bursting with gifts for the young patients was stirring... but not enough to move me.

I have been quietly boycotting the movement ever since. Containing my feelings (or lack thereof) Ive played along with my ho hum attitude each year so as not to totally demolish my family's right to feel holiday pleasure.

I guess time eventually heals.

Im proud to say that this year I have a REAL tree, as I desperately wanted to take in Christmas with all of my senses.

The smell of the tree when I walk in my front door reminds me of what I have missed out on for so long. My home decorated early this year, my choice (not begrudgingly - for the sake of the kids), and Ive even hummed along to a few tunes. Baking is coming along nicely and I'M cooking this years turkey.

Yesterday we did a neat little Christmas photo shoot for Hair Massacure (which will be revealed very soon) and tomorrow we are having a small gathering of HM peeps to celebrate the season.

I can't ever say that Christmas has returned to me in the same fashion.

I will always feel annoyed with the hype, exagerated marketing, unnecessary financial pressures and obligations, and wasted focus towards aspects of Christmas that do not reflect spirit.

my wish for all of you to feel spirit as did the Wisemen who awaited the miracle that ultimately created CHRISTmas.

Goin' to Grande Prairie

Yesterday Jaime and I ventured out to Grande Prairie to spread a little Massacure around. Neither of us had been there, the size of the city surprised us.

Prior to our early departure I updated my GPS to ensure that I would not get us lost (it pains me to say that being a trappers daughter did not influence my sense of direction).

Tracking my mileage, I realized that we travelled further within the town limits than travelling to it - GPS you are NOT my friend.

"Save On Foods" took us to a school, "Totem" took us to a residential area, "McD's" took us clear around the town - the long way, as did the hotel which lead us on a dirt road, and the "movie theatre" was 271 miles away.

Jaime became the navigation with her blackberry uttering verbal directions to a person with ADHD who is directionally challenged.

Meeting at Save On Foods went very well. We referred to ourselves as Divas of Massacure and the staff there seemed to be the perfect fit for us - they're nuts too :)

As Jaime spoke of sponsorship details, I drifted off into my phone in desperate search of every stupid picture I could find - a story HAD to be told.

Of course I had pics of various Save On events - my fav being "dudes in dresses" day.

Regional manager bearing his oranges (squeezed from behind) whilst wearing a pink dress and sporting pink hair. He just happened to be up there yesterday.... I needed to share.

Oh and here's one of an armpit shave, here is a hairy chest and check out this guys legs.....

An impressive hair donation, ya'll know Dawn Marie? I could have went on and on...

They are very excited to sell Kali Bears for their walls. I could not find the actual version of the bear - only the revised version where I defaced by adding braces and pimples. Kali wasn't hugely impressed, but I think they liked it.

Save On will also sell Kali Pink and hair extensions, following suit of the stores out here.

Next we hooked up with a friend Kalie, a high achieving charasmatic participant of Red Deer, now resident of GP. She became inspired by the concept, the story and my daughter - now compelled to share in new territory. I remember being mesmorized by how pink had complimented her face, then her hair came off - another wow.

After our enjoyable hook up with Kalie, the movie theatre beckoned us. We needed to decompress. The theatre that hosted Breaking Dawn did not have heat, over an above a draft that caused visible breath and ovaries to shrivel. My full visit to the mens washroom must have been influenced by hypothermia, we opted to change theaters.

Over late supper Jaime's name was dropped and recognized (from her previous career) by a young man who revered her in the highest honor. We all agreed with him that she is very nice (for someone who so prominent). He proudly informed us that he knew her. She did not know him.

I have had this happen to me a few times. Most interesting to have a discussion about yourself with someone who apparently knows you.

Supper was eaten in the car, both of us still thawing from the theatre - unprepared to leave a heated car with a heated seat. Checking into the hotel was kinda fun.

Hotel staff assumed we were a couple. Resembling the movie - pale skin, blue lips, dark circles... we were Bella and Edward. Or maybe it was the discussion about sharing a bed and wanting a jacuzzi?

Hotel room was a tad chilly as well. At 4 am our lips were still blue, we both shivered off the calories we had consumed at supper. By morning - an epiphany.

The big space heater lured our bums over to have a seat atop a blasting surge of heat, Marilyn Monroe style. Did not want to leave our spot for a cold seat in the awaiting vehicle.

Off to Totem Building supplies. Lost and late, thanks G.P.S. (initials now have new application....)

Another success, more paper Kali Bears sold, and a concept launched as a result of a highly engaged participant Paul who's brain child became the pink hard hat campaign.

Speaking of brain child - Kali Bears originated in Jaime's brain years back when McD's launched that in their restaurants.

Now we have grocery, hardware, fast food and pubs selling these.

Kali baby, you are sure getting around.

The ride home was carefree, singing along to itunes and reading aloud Brandi's tweets, and blogs (which are developing some nice flavour and interest). Brandi darling - YOU ARE FUNNY.

Jaime you are a great travelling companion. Brandi you are coming next time!

Grande Prairie, we will visit you again.

Thank you for the enthusiasm and support!

A helpful volunteer

You know, sometimes I wonder what makes a person volunteer. I mean, we're all busy right? Why on earth would we want to give up what precious little time we have, and what's more - not get paid for it?

OK before you start rolling your eyes THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR VOLUNTEERS (though that will come in January...).

I'm actually pondering this because across my desk earlier this week came a volunteer application from the spouse of a long-time supporter of HM. The application said she'd like to help pre-and post-event. She's apparently got great admin and organizational skills (which means I already like her and we haven't even met yet). In essence, this amazing woman is saying "What can I do to help you?" just like that. No strings attached - because there are no perks to volunteering in the office. No dilly bars, no chance encounters with celebrities, and not even any pink hair... yet. So, it got me to thinking about how small acts of kindness can make such a difference to another person.

Of course, at this time of year lots of people are thinking they should do more, be more appreciative, and show others compassion. But you know, I get the impression she's just that kind of person and it has nothing to do with the "season".

I've worked with a lot of volunteers in my lifetime. Some do it for the perks. Some do it because it's the "cool" thing to do at a high-profile event. Some do it to get credit at school. Some do it because their companies pay them to volunteer. Some do it so they can teach their children the value of giving to others. Many have come to the realization that sometimes their time really is more valuable to someone than just their money.

So, I am very much looking forward to meeting Sherry this afternoon. I am already grateful for her generous offer of time and an extra pair of hands. I just hope she can count... we'll be doing LOTS of that :)

December!

Holy lightning! How did it get to be December already? I can't hardly believe it's been almost one full year since I joined this crazy team. I do recall telling Nicki to "bring it on - I can handle it". Well, they brought it, alright. And I'm still here.

These days the office (and by that I mean the phone, the email, the texting, meetings, running around) is buzzing. Literally. There are days when I don't think any of us stop to catch our breath. I suspect there are days when we forget to eat/drink/pee... Never mind - that's probably too much information :) I know for a fact there is some thumb-sucking going on in some houses these days.

We are frantically trying to learn the world of social media so we can keep up with Twitter and Facebook. Insert sarcastic "thanks Carmelle" here.There are some of us who don't quite like Twitter yet (me) but I am trying. This old dog can learn new tricks, she just isn't happy about it. Hey - maybe FRED should tweet for me! Some others are pretty good at it (Jaime) and some of us are afraid (Jaime and I) of what the other (Tammy) might tweet about! Follow us @hairmassacure to see if anything embarrasing gets said. Bets anyone?

So, I guess what I'm getting at is this: it's only December 1 and we already have 100 registered particiapnts, 16 teams, just over $10,000 raised, and we're just starting to hit the schools. This 10th Anniversary year is shaping up to be a pretty incredible machine.

If we can keep up with it, that is...

By the way, now that it's December, I can turn on my Christmas lights, right? YAY!!

Happy thoughts everyone!

Hair Massacure crazies

Let me introduce you to the team that has been working strategically on the event since October.

This isn't all of them, we have several planning committee members. These guys put a ton of hours into this project and I love them for it.

You all know Brandi- she is the project coordinator.

She works ethically and is focused, diligent and passionate about process. She also laughs at us a llllll the time and demonstrates an impressive level of patience.

Last week over coffee she nearly came out of her chair (like a Chris Angel levitation) as she described experienced successes in various meetings with our captains nailing down procedures. Her heightened excitement regarding registration details waisted as the signage at Starbucks captures Tammy attention. Mmmmmm... Candycane Mocha...

My brain does not gravitate into those areas of Brandi's passion - I absolutely need her.

Then we have Jaime. Our Project Manager.

Jaime is half Tammy, half Brandi. She LOVES process (one of her strengths), so these two make a great team whilst lost in discussions about budget items and sponsorship details. I'm lost too....

At the same time, Jaime can get sidetracked, and I like that.

Drop a word like "hockey", "Edward" (Twilight), "Coach" (as in the purse), "coupon" (as in extreme couponing), "family / friends" (as in anything to do with), "sick kid", or "McDonald's" (her roots) and she's promptly exited the current conversation to engage in a new one.

Jaime is highly productive and motivated, has ALREADY accomplished miracles and will likely burn out in the next 5 years.

Jaime does not smoke, nor do I - but like our friends here, we do love to pose in a good photo op.

Next we have Christie. I refer to her as Peters. Christie adds a lot of flavour to the event. She is our new volunteer Stylist coordinator (who has replaced the efforts of my lovely daughter Meagan and the infamous Mel). Christie is a take charge kinda gal, highly driven and passionate about all that she believes in. Her sense of humour makes up for the many ribbings endured. If Chris sees a vision - GET OUT OF HER WAY. Christie is Ukrainian, she believes food must play an integral role in all areas of life. The stylists love her already.

Next we have Pat. Pat is our school liaison (coordinator) and appointments diva. Pat has been with us since 2006 (same as Jaime), takes this event very seriously and knows a LOT about HM. Pat says she used to feel afraid and intimidated by me (back in the day when I taught karate) but those days are over. This makes me sad. :(

We like to identify her as the one with the heart on (thats annunciated .... sorta).

Tina is our merch captain. Tina is an expert in the retail industry and gets very excited about our merch (which she has purchased for the last few years on her line of credit). Tina is very driven to find the BEST prices for our participants, I so appreciate that. Tina is a funny girl with a huge heart, typically attached her her funny aunty Donna -with the huge heart. Tina is featured on our home page - the peace symbol. :)

Last we have Darcy. Darcy runs the Red Deer Massacure. I don't have a goofy picture of Darcy YET, but my obvious goal will be to get one in the near future. Fundraising is engrained in Darcy, always room in his hectic schedule to help out a friend our a cause - and always with a smile.

Nicki - my project coordinator for the last couple of years has stayed connected (yay!), however agreed to stay on year round with the River Queen as manager. We miss her, but she's still heavily involved as a planning committee member.

You all know what I do. A bit of everything, often a LOT of everything (certain folks say I could think about doing less of certain things...). I don't like to stay on one subject for too long, lists make me shudder, documents I find painful, counting Im not good at, distracting others Im very good at, I hold a LOT in my memory, I don't take notes, I struggle with delegating (although improving), I hate meetings that don't encourage my stories and I love inspiring people over a small table and a great cup of coffee. Painfully unconventional but somehow it works.

Its funny as I write this blog Im reflecting on what we all have in common.

We all are loopy. We all love to have fun. We all wish to make a difference because:

all of us have endured life altering trauma in our immediate family either by loosing a child / family member, or nursing a child through a disability and or life threatening illness.

Almost all of them have been with me for a minimum of 5 years and typically pink and or shave.

Now when I look at this even closer I realize that most of our planning committee members share this too.

Its true that like attracts like.

I wouldn't give these guys up for the world....

Coffee spills

Remember when Tide sticks came out? I recall thinking "oh, another gimmick".

Thanks to Kali's relentless urging to purchase one, I am forever grateful.

Ive since upgraded to a Tide BRUSH (it comes in industrial sizes) as Ive had a few mishaps over the years.

My first coffee mishap (rescued by the stick) happened on a hot summer day, in white pants at the traffic lights, mocha in hand, avoiding a sneaky left hand turn.

I used almost the entire stick, said thank you to Kali under my breath and set off for my meeting with a wet crotch.

Could have been worse - brown stain makes more of an interesting first impression.

Found a washroom with a hand dryer that you can manipulate - aimed it in the appropriate place and waved sheepishly as the washroom door opened. Had it not been the donor I was going to meet with, Im sure it would have been less intimidating.

A few years ago while meeting with a volunteer I learned that the family was lotto winners..... twice.

As Elaine would do (from Seinfeld) I over demonstrated my astonishment .... "GET OUT!" -

knocked my coffee clear across the table with such speed and force it nearly broke the sound barrier. Tide stick didn't cut it that time.

At a karate tournament, I approached another blackbelt during intermission with the intention of engaging in childish play (while he was trying to eat his lunch). I used one one my "moves" on him - to teach him a lesson for always ambushing me with his "moves".

The plan was only to intimidate by just grazing the skin. I was over zealous and he was drinking a coffee. I roundhouse kicked his coffee clear out of his hand. He competed in a brown Gi. Was really glad we weren't paired to fight.

I met with a vice principal in his office prior to my presentation at a junior high school. Just getting acquainted. He provided me with a coffee. As he spoke behind his desk, I fell into his charming soft spoken voice.

The conversation turned to me as he asked questions about the event.

I got comfortable, real comfortable as if to dazzle him with my really great story. I leaned heavily with intention on my left arm, on the arm of the chair, real cool like - Sue Sylvester face, coffee in left hand.

Should have checked first IF the chair had an arm. I went down, feet and coffee went up.

I don't recall fretting about where the coffee went. I think I might have lost a minute of my life as I must have blocked his reaction. All good. I don't need to remember that.

My most recent coffee episode was a Stollery meeting with our CEO. We shared a coffee at a small coffee shop at a small table. As Jaime was sharing her story, I fumbled around with my lid. Didn't seem to fit.

First 3 sips dribbled down and inside my shirt. 4th sip was the winner.

Time slowed to a halt as I watched frame by frame the cup go down and my java inch its way toward her covering the table.

My instinct was to throw my body onto the large brown pool (like putting out a fire), and be the rescuing sham wow. As I got up to proceed with my plan I felt the warmth. Waist to knees soaked, reached inside the purse. I wish I hadn't dumped 5 sugars in.

I have thought a lot about this and put together an emergency kit, only different than most.

Mine has 12 Tide sticks, towels, paper towels, baby wipes, pants, a shirt, socks, scarf and socks.

Now Im prepared.

Is this relevant to Hair Massacure? Yes and No.

If you - in the future choose to meet with me, bring protection.

Saying farewell to a committed Proud Victim

This weekend we said goodbye to our friend of 9 years - Marlies (better known as the "Telus Queen). Marlies is moving back to the Netherlands and we will miss her.

We met Marlies in 2003, under the clippers at our first Massacre held at Canada Post. Gord had approached her husband who shared this event with his wife who was battling her own illness (Lupus) and experiencing her own hairless. Coupled with her deep love for children, shaving seemed to be a perfect fit.

In the following years Marlies returned with a new title "the Telus Queen", complete with a crown and banner. Her boss accompanied her a couple of times (with a nice juicy cheque) taking the honour of assisting with the shave. Typically Kali would assist with the others as this was a special thing between those two.

Marlies developed a deep fondness for the event, particularly for Miss Kali.

In 2004, I invited Marlies to volunteer for our support group "Families Helping Families" - a monthly fun gathering for fellow cancer families ran by myself and girlfriend Carol.

Marlies loved being surrounded by these kids as she did not have any of her own to care for.

Every month Marlies would return to us at the City Arts Center (where we hosted FHF) and every year she'd find her yearly haircut under the clippers.

In 2007 Marlies hooked up with "Spanky" and joined our event as the first registered duo.

This became the catalyst for implementing teams and canines into our blossoming event.

Marlies concealed Spanky under a blanket in a baby carriage and discreatly wheeled him down past the HMV stage to the cutting area where my daughter Meagan met them both with the shears. A mixture of Marlies hair and grey tufts of fur (off the top of Spankys head) left evidence of what I would encourage for years to follow.

The following year we had registered teams, 3 pink standard poodles (including FRED), a pink bichon, a retriever and a bulldog.

Now rethinking the dog thing at WEM (as this has now caused a few glitches that I did not foresee), I am grateful for Marlies's innovative ideas.

Spanky prompted my invitation of Beamer and Paladin which prompted me to acquire a F.R.E.D. which prompted General (our pink horse), and so forth.

Perhaps this may eventually lead to a "Fur Massacure" .... who know?

Best of luck on your travels Marlies and thank you for your heart.

You will be hugely missed.