Thoughts and Prayers to Moore, Oklahoma

Prayers to Moore, Oklahoma

Total devastation in Moore, Oklahoma

What is Tornado Alley?  What does it mean and do people actually live there?

Like many other Canadians, I had never heard of Tornado Alley before I turned on CNN on Monday evening to catch up on the day’s current events.  I was completely overwhelmed by the devastation and carnage of Moore, Oklahoma in the wake of the tornado that ripped through the US town Monday afternoon.  It was unbelievable!

I watched on the TV as the rescue workers frantically dug through the debris in search of survivors. An entire elementary school was flattened with children inside.  It was heartbreaking!  The pictures and video coverage that showed the tornado as it was descending upon the town was surreal!  You could actually see the cloud of debris that swirled with the 2 mile wide cloud of destruction.

I learned that Tornado Alley is actually a weather path that tornados seem to follow when they touch down during tornado season which normally occurs in this area of the United States in early May.  For the  people that live in the area, it becomes a way of life;  to be educated about tornados; what to do when a warning comes through; how to be prepared; how to prepare their homes.  On Monday, the residents of Moore Oklahoma were given a 20 minute warning of the impending tornado landing.  According to the reports, the people prepared for the worst by heading to their storm shelters and taking coverage in windowless areas.  Teachers at a local school huddled a group of second graders into the girls/boys washroom area and the forethought of these amazing teachers saved the lives of the students huddled in the washroom.  After the tornado passed, the washroom was the only portion of the school left standing.

Even though preparations and precautions were taken, there was nothing that could prevent the ultimate carnage the was left in the wake of the tornado.  People’s homes, businesses, the hospital, schools, all  were completely flattened.  Parents were frantically trying to locate their children and without communication or electricity trying to get information on family members was next to impossible.  I could not imagine what those people were going through.  Imagine, coming home and there is literally nothing there?  Your belongings and life’s treasures gone!  My thoughts and prayers go out to those people who lost everything.

How can we help?  How can we send just a little bit to assist the families and the community as they attempt to move on and rebuild?  The Red Cross and the Salvation Army have set up relief funds for Moore, Oklahoma and the families affected. You can donate online through the Red Cross Relief Fund or online at the Salvation Army or by sending a cheque to:

“Oklahoma Tornado Relief” and mail it to: The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 12600, Oklahoma City, OK., 73157.

My thoughts and prayers are with the families in Moore, Oklahoma,

Gracie

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:, , , , , ,
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Posted On:May 22, 2013 Categories:Current Events

Childhood Cancer Awareness Blog Series; Installment #3 TORI’S HELPING HANDS

TORI ALEXANDRA CARSWELL

Tori Alexandra Carswell

‘ Castles in the Sand ‘
Sometimes life’s most precious things Slip too quickly from our hands… Snowflakes, rainbows, childhood, Castles in the Sand.
God gave us a special spot to preserve them in our hearts; A forever place where all we love lingers when we part.
Fireflies and autumn leaves, Roses, kittens, dreams, Icicles, sunrise, spider webs, Mornings dew, moon beams;
Butterflies and baby birds, Flowers that bloom in spring… Perhaps in life God’s greatest gifts Are blessed by Him with wings.

 

TORI’S HELPING HANDS

Tori Alexandra Carswell, a beautiful baby girl was born July 1st, 1994 (Canada Day).  This adorable baby grew to be a caring and very sensitive little girl.

At the age of 5 ½, Tori began having back and leg pain. After visiting several doctors and going through many tests, Tori and her family were given the devastating diagnosis that Tori had Stage IV Neuroblastoma.  It was just 3 weeks shy of her 6th birthday.

Most people have never heard of neuroblastoma, a rare type of cancer that almost always occurs in infants and young children, however it is the most common type of cancer in infants.  It still remains rare enough that many doctors have never cared for a child with neuroblastoma.

Although neuroblastoma sometimes forms before a child is born, it usually isn’t found until later, when the tumor begins to grow and affect the body.  If  neuroblastoma is diagnosed in infancy, the chance of recovery is good.

Neuroblastoma is a rare disease in which a solid tumor (a lump or mass caused by uncontrolled or abnormal cell growth) is formed by special nerve cells called neuroblasts. Normally, these immature cells grow and mature into functioning nerve cells. But in neuroblastoma, they become cancer cells instead.

Neuroblastoma most commonly starts in the tissue of the adrenal glands, the triangular glands on top of the kidneys that produce hormones responsible for controlling heart rate, blood pressure, and other important functions. Like other cancers, neuroblastoma can spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, skin, liver, and bones.

Tori endured the same grueling treatment that most of the kids experience with Neuroblastoma;  many rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, stem cell transplant and radiation.  Despite all of the treatment protocols, within 1 year, Tori’s  cancer had returned.

At this point Tori’s family was given the news that Tori may have only a 5% chance of survival, and were given the option of doing nothing. Tori and her family wouldn’t accept those odds and they refused to give up.

The community of Stittsville (outside of Ottawa), and many friends and family rallied around Tori and her  family in the summer and fall of 2001.  Over $100,000 was raised to assist with medical and travel costs, because the only option was for Tori to go outside of Canada for treatment.

Tori was put on more chemo, and once the disease was under control, traveled to Sloan Kettering in New York City to do an experimental type of cancer treatment called 3F8s. These treatments were extremely painful, and unfortunately resulted in no positive
results and did not buy Tori the additional time that the family prayed for.

Tori started back on the chemo, but had to discontinue after she experienced a serious infection and ended up in ICU at CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern). From there they tried MIBG therapy, which was her easiest treatment, but did little to stop the progression of the disease.

The disease at this point, had spread to Tori’s  lungs and liver and she was given weeks to live. It was  Christmas 2003, and Tori was just 9 ½ years old. The family had a wonderful Christmas and New Year, with Tori where she felt great and could do most things that children do. That was their miracle!   In January 2004 Tori’s health quickly deteriorated, and she had to be admitted to hospital to control the pain in her belly.  Tori  passed away on January 16, 2004.

Tori, with her infectious smile and passion for life became an inspiration to many, as friends, family and the community did everything they could to give Tori a chance. As it turned out, it was Tori who was giving everyone else something special!   Tori’s courage and strength throughout her battle, inspired all to carry on each day, and to appreciate the little things in life. She taught everyone she met not to worry about the petty things, and to live each day like it’s your last!

 

Tori's Smile!

 

 

Tori’s Helping Handwas established in 2005, in Tori’s memory, and is part of the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Support Programs Inc. This program provides funds to palliative care oncology children and their families, as well as to families whose children require a transplant. The money for palliative children will help the families provide much needed comfort in their child’s last days. This comfort might come in the way of a comfortable chair, a spa visit, a puppy, etc.  Whatever can be offered to help even in the slightest way.

An annual memorial golf tournament in Tori’s name has been running since 2004 and Tori’s family have worked diligently to continue to raise money and awareness for childhood cancer in Tori’s name.  To date, TORI’S HELPING HAND has donated over $333,700.00 to childhood cancer charities. 

It never ceases to amaze me how these incredible, young champions can endure so much in their young lives and yet have such a zest for life and manage to meet every medical challenge with the determination and maturity of an adult. 

I met Tori a couple of times when I was visiting my friend Paige in the Cancer ward at CHEO and I will always remember her adorable smile and friendly nature.  She was ethereal.  That is the only word that I can come up with. 

No one can ever make sense of why kids get cancer, or why they have to go through what they go through to fight their cancer demons but we CAN help to make a difference in their lives. 

  • We can donate to a childhood cancer charity. 
  • We can donate to Tori’s Helping Hand to assist another young cancer champion and their family as they struggle to find peace and support in the palliative world of childhood cancer.
  • We can assist organizations like the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Support Inc. to make the journey a little bit easier for these amazing young heroes and their families. 
  • We can share Tori’s story and inform others about the amazing charity that her family created and continues to raise funds through. 

Help me to spread awareness!  Help me to honour Tori’s memory through my blog by introducing Tori’s Helping Hand to some of your friends and family.

Gracie

 

 

 

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:, , , , ,
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Posted On:May 19, 2013 Categories:Childhood Cancer Awareness Blog Series

CHARITY WEEKEND – “TAKE TWO!”

CHARITY WEEKEND – “TAKE TWO”

WHAT A WEEKEND!  Great time management skills certainly came into play this weekend!

 

All Dressed up for the Victoria Tea

First off, I had to dust off my fancy gloves and lovely hat for the VICTORIAN TEA.  I had a lovely afternoon with some wonderful ladies.  I can’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon than chatting over china tea cups and munching on sweets and finger sandwiches.  What a lovely day!  Thank you so much to the Catholic Women’s League for the invitation.

Then it was a quick change into my RELAY for LIFE  committee outfit and off to the Relay for Life Spaghetti dinner.  Did it smell good in there!

With Cancer Champion PAIGE at the Relay for Life Spaghetti Dinner

I am so proud to have been an active member of our Renfrew Collegiate Institute Relay for Life committee for the past four years.  What an amazing group of young volunteers, teacher  and staff volunteers we have!  We are all committed to doing what we can to promote and raise funds through our RELAY for LIFE Events and continue to make a substantial contribution to the Canadian Cancer Society.  It truly makes me proud to be a RAIDER!

 

Sunday, I had to don my Western garb and cowboy boots for an afternoon hosting the COUNTRY OPRY!  What an entertaining way to spend the afternoon.  The show consisted of a variety of local performers imitating country music legends.  What talent!  I can tell you MINNIE PEARL was nothing short of hilarious! Way to go Gladys!  Proceeds from the Country Opry show were donated to the “Healing Garden” being designed at the Renfrew Victoria Hospital;  surrounding those in hospital with a beautiful, restful environment to escape from the confines of the hospital.  What an incredible concept!

Hosting at the Country Opry

Thursday, I headed to Ottawa to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario with 1stRunner Up to Miss Teen Ontario East 2013 Saralyn Deslaurier to answer the VIP phones at the annual BEAR RADIOTHON for CHEO.  We spent the afternoon and early evening answering phones, chatting on the radio on air and visiting with many of the patients at CHEO who came down to the cafeteria to check out what was going on.  Volunteering at CHEO events has been one of the major perks of being both Miss Teen Ontario East 2012 and now Miss Teen Eastern Ontario

With the lovely Saralyn Deslaurier 1st Runner up to Miss Teen Ontario East 2013 at THE BEAR Radiothon at CHEO

World 2013.  I love spending time with the kids and although I try and bring some sunshine to their day at the hospital, they always manage to bring it to mine instead.  We are truly blessed to have CHEO in our community. I have been a “frequent flyer” at CHEO all of my life, having been diagnosed with Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes just before I turned six. Taking the opportunity to ‘Give Back” whenever possible is fulfilling and something that I take very seriously.

Well as they say, “No rest for the wicked!”  This weekend kicks off my six week fund raising project for FREE THE CHILDREN.  I have a very busy weekend planned with events Friday night and Saturday and then off to the Tulip Festival on Monday.  Be sure to tune after the weekend for my report and pictures.

 

Stay tuned,

Gracie

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:, , , , , , ,
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Posted On:May 18, 2013 Categories:CHARITY EVENTS

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

My Best Friend; MY MOM

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY to wonderful Moms everywhere.

One day a year to honour our Moms; those incredible women who put our needs before theirs, who dedicate their time and energy every day to ensure we have what we need and who inspire us with their never ending support, is just not enough time to properly pay thanks for all that they do.

It is definitely not enough time for me!  I have personally been blessed with an amazing Mom!  There are no words that would properly portray my gratitude and love for my Mom but I did find this special poem that I would like to share.  This is for you MOM and for every other Mom out there who is amazing, selfless and full of devotion to her children;

“If I could give you diamonds for each tear you cried for me                                                         

If I could give you saphires for every truth you helped me see,

If I could give you rubies for all the heartaches that you have known,

If I could give you pearls for all the wisdom you have shown,

Then you would have a treasure, MOM that would mount up to the skies

That would almost match that sparkle in your kind and loving eyes.

But, I have NO pearls and no diamonds, as I am sure you are aware,

So I’ll give you a gift more precious…

My DEVOTION, My LOVE and My CARE!”

Author Unknown

My message:  Love your Moms everyday because EVERYDAY should be MOTHER’S DAY!

Gracie

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:
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Posted On:May 13, 2013 Categories:Special Events

A BUSY CHARITY WEEKEND

 

50's Dance-a-thon for CHEO Satelite clinic at RVH with Organizer Paige, Miss Teen Ontario East 2013 Sonya Bergin, 1st Runner Up 2013 Saralyn Deslaurier

A GORGEOUS and BUSY CHARITY WEEKEND

Last weekend kicked off the CHARITY Season in full force! What a weekend!

Friday was an official PA day at school but that meant it was a great day for my Friend and Cancer Champion PAIGE to host her 50’s style JUNIOR DANCE A THON for Grade 7 & 8 students.  So we brushed off our poodle skirts, saddle shoes and got our Jiving legs ready for a great afternoon.  We had a blast! The kids were treated to a JIVE Dance lesson (and they surprised us with their knack for the dance), a Bubblegum blowing contest (which resulted in bubblegum all over the face of our winner; MALLORY), a Hula Hoop contest and an old fashioned Spot Dance.  The themed Dance-a-thon raised over $500.00 for the CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario) satellite clinic at the Renfrew Victoria Hospital.  This donation to the kids from the kids will go towards purchasing a portable scale for the satellite clinic.  I was so proud to be a part of such a unique event!

The sun and I rose bright and early Saturday morning to be on hand at our annual RELAY for LIFE Downtown Bake Sale/Car Wash  and Yard Sale.

At the Relay for Life Yard Sale/Bake Sale/Car Wash with Sonya Bergin, Miss Teen Ontario East 2013

Everyone in the community was downtown supporting the town merchants, Yard Sale vendors,  and our Relay for Life Bake Sale/Car Wash.  So many goodies were baked, donated and sold!  It was a GORGEOUS DAY filled with lively community spirit!  The money we raised will be incorporated into our school total after our annual Relay for Life Event on May 24th.

At the MYFM Radio Live Remote for one of my sponsors; NEW WAVE SWIMWEAR

I took a quick break from my Bake Sale duties to do a site visit and a live radio remote for MYFM Radio at one of my sponsors;  NEW WAVE SWIMWEAR!     It was a very busy day for them!  The weather had everyone thinking cottage, pool and swimming suits!

Sunday, it was off to HIKE for HOSPICE; A wonderful walk day for an essential component of our community. The Hospice is an end of life care facility that allows residents and their family’s excellent care and privacy in a home-like setting for their palliative journey.  It was another well-attended event with lots of walkers and sponsors taking advantage of the lovely day, and walking for a great cause.

Now to rest up this week in preparation for next weekend;   Tulip Festival, Spaghetti Dinner for Relay for Life, and the COUNTRY OPRY!

I love the Charity Season!  More to come!

Stay tuned,

Gracie

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:, , , , , ,
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Posted On:May 9, 2013 Categories:CHARITY EVENTS

Childhood Cancer Awareness Series – Installment #2 BRYCE JUDE – A HERO! An INSPIRATION!

BRYCE – A TRUE HERO

BRYCE JUDE – A HERO!  AN INSPIRATION!

In September of 2012, at one of my many Miss Teen Ontario East events promoting September as Childhood Cancer Awareness month,  I was overcome  when I met the family and supporters of Bryce Jude, an amazing childhood cancer hero at the INSIDE RIDE for Candlelighters, Childhood Cancer Support Inc.

I am honoured that Bryce’s family have allowed me to share his story with you in hopes that you will choose to get involved in the CANDLELIGHTERS Childhood Cancer Support Inc. and join the REFUSE 2LOSE Team Bryce as they continue to raise funds in Bryce’s memory for the Candlelighters Suite Seats program; ensuring other cancer champions have the opportunity to get out of the hospital environment and have some fun!

On October 15, 2009, the Jude family’s world forever changed!  Bryce, who was four at the time and the oldest of the Jude’s children was diagnosed with Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ph+ALL); an extremely high risk and rare type of leukemia.

Bryce fought a long and hard battle with his cancer and did it with a mini stick in his hand and while wearing his beloved Ottawa Senators jersey.   Bryce was deemed cancer-free and in remission by May of 2011 and was finally able to get back to school, signed up for baseball and soccer and had a fantastic summer.

However, in September of 2011, Bryce and his family were devastated when his headaches returned and Bryce’s cancer had relapsed in his central nervous system.  Bryce went through a new cancer protocol at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).  In early January, Bryce was airlifted to Toronto’s SickKids Hopsital where he underwent a complex bone marrow transplant (donated by his little brother Mason).  Bryce rebounded back and was once again the little boy playing hockey in the hospital hallway and in true SENATOR’S fashion had posted a “NO LEAF FANS ALLOWED” sign on his hospital room door!

The entire Jude family of 5, relocated to the Ronald MacDonald House in Toronto and spent the winter, spring and early summer in Toronto with Bryce as he recuperated.  In early June they headed back home to Ottawa.  Within days of their arrival home, Bryce’s headaches returned and less than 2 weeks after returning to their own beds, the Oncology team at CHEO confirmed that Bryce’s cancer had relapsed into his central nervous system.  Bryce fought valiantly again and the cancer went back into remission but no cure could be found, despite his medical team at both CHEO and SICKKIDS researching clinical trials around the world.

Bryce started to show serious neurological side effects from the heavy treatments required to fight his cancer and was moved from the ICU to the amazing ROGER’S HOUSE to spend his last few days as comfortable as possible with his family and friends by his side.  Bryce earned his angel wings on September 7, 2012 only 17 days after his 7th birthday.

I met Bryce’s family at the INSIDE RIDE fund raiser for CANDLELIGHTERS just two short weeks later and I was completely overwhelmed by their passion and strength.  By sharing Bryce’s incredible story of courage, the Jude family are trying to give people a greater understanding of the journey that is childhood cancer and by raising funds through his memory, they can have a direct impact on the families affected by childhood cancer.

Bryce’s family has started Refuse2Lose Team Bryce; an charity organization that is committed to raise $50,000.00 annually to support the Candlelighters Suite Seats program in loving memory and honour of Bryce who was THE BIGGEST hockey and OTTAWA SENATORS fan!

The Refuse2Lose Team Bryce has several events planned for this summer and I hope if you are in the area you will take the time to participate in one or all of the events!  If you are not from the area but Bryce’s story has impacted you and you would like to donate to Bryce’s charity, please visit the Refuse2Lose Team Bryce website and/or Refuse2Lose Team Bryce Facebook page.

BRYCE JUDE,  Childhood Cancer Hero

Refuse2Lose TEAM BRYCE

August 2005-September 2012

A Hero can come in all shapes and sizes

A Hero can be big or small

A Hero shows courage through the tough times

And a Hero INSPIRES and motivates us all!

A Hero's Smile!

Bryce’s courage and spirit motivate me to make a difference in the lives of kids with cancer!  What about you? 

Gracie

 

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:, , , , , , , ,
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Posted On:May 6, 2013 Categories:Charity Platform, Childhood Cancer Awareness Blog Series

IT’S PLAYOFF TIME – GAME ON!

 

GAME ON!

Proud to be a Canadian!  Proud to be a Hockey Fan! 

It’s PLAYOFF TIME!

Proudly wearing my SENS JERSEY! GO SENS GO!

You can’t be a true Canadian and not be excited about the Stanley Cup Playoffs.  It’s a tradition and a part of our heritage.  This is especially true for those of us who have been fortunate enough to have been born and raised in the beautiful Town of Renfrew;  better known as the BIRTHPLACE of the NHL.  Yes, our little town is famous for our hockey heritage!

Today the Stanley Cup is one of the most recognized professional Sports trophies in the world.  But when it was created in 1893, the Stanley Cup was just a challenge cup.  To be the holder of this Cup, a Canadian Hockey team had to directly challenge the current holder of the cup to compete for it.

The STANLEY CUP

 

M.J. O’Brien, founder of the Town of Renfrew and his son decided they wanted to win the Stanley Cup and when their efforts to challenge for the cup were not accepted by the current holders of the cup (the Montreal Wanderers), M.J. O’Brien took his issue to the Eastern Canadian Hockey Association and his application was rejected.  The  Canadian Hockey Association soon rejected both the Renfrew Creamery Kings (O’Brien’s team) and the Montreal Wanderers from the new League.  It was then that Mr. O’Brien and Mr. Garner the owner of the Montreal Wanderers set out to establish their own League and in December of 1909 the National Hockey Association (NHA) was formed.

The League grew and although Mr. O’Brien withdrew his financial support of the League to focus on the railroads, others came on board and the NHA thrived until an issue with Toronto owner  Eddie Livingstone caused the organization to band together and come up with a way to shut Mr. Livingstone out of the league.  They decided to join together and reformat the league leaving Mr. Livingstone on his own. The new league which followed the same rules and constitution as the NHA was renamed the NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE.  The League that exists today!

We are proud that the foundation of the NHL, which is such an important part of our national culture, started with the dream of the Founder of our Town.  Mr.  O’Brien was officially inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame as a BUILDER and my home town, the Town of Renfrew is officially listed as the Birthplace of the NHL.

So, it is with pride of my home town of Renfrew and pride in my team THE OTTAWA SENATORS that I don my OTTAWA SENATORS jersey and get ready to cheer them on to a STANLEY CUP victory.  We won it in 1909!  WE CAN DO IT AGAIN! 

GO SENS GO!

 

 

 

 

 

Stay tuned,

GRACIE

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:, ,
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Posted On:May 5, 2013 Categories:It's Playoff Time

Childhood Cancer Awareness BLOG SERIES – “ALL ABOUT PAIGE”

Paige, CO-HOST of the CTV Kid's Miracle Network

Meet one of my very best friends, PAIGE who is the strongest and the most inspirational person that I know!  It was Paige that I played Barbies with, danced with and had overnight sleepovers with when we were young.  At the age of 8, a quick trip to the Doctor turned into a six month hospital stay and 10 years of doctor’s visits, therapy sessions, and life-altering treatment plans.  Paige was given the devastating news that she had MEDULLABLASTOMA; a large malignant brain tumour located in the cerebellum area of the brain.  Immediately Paige was admitted into hospital and underwent a six hour MRI session marking her brain for surgery and then a 14 hour brain surgery to remove the tumour.  Due to the size of the tumour and the life-saving surgery that was required, Paige was affected by a condition called Cerebella Mutism and Posterior Fossa Syndrome;  in our words; she had lost the ability to swallow, to eat, to talk, to hold her head up, to walk or to have the  use of her hands and arms.   She had to teach her brain to do everything that comes naturally to us, all over again.  Imagine, being told you have cancer and will have to undergo 56 weeks of chemotherapy and 6 weeks of intense radiation to the brain and spine and you can’t talk!

Paige having a Chemo session

You can’t ask questions or tell your parents how scared you are!  That is what my friend went through.  It was 8 weeks before she talked.  Eight weeks before she found her voice again.  I watched Paige go through chemotherapy and radiation.  I saw her lose her beautiful white blonde hair and saw the how the chemotherapy ravaged her body.  I witnessed her determination as she went through hours of rehabilitation and physio therapy sessions every day and through it all, she maintained her unique and infecting sense of humour.  She was given wigs to wear but she chose to go the “BAD HAIR DAY LOOK” as she referred to her bald head, and took it in stride but corrected people rather abruptly when they would call her a little boy.  “I’m not a boy, I have cancer!”  Now, that would put them in their place!  People were mortified but it made Paige laugh to see their expressions.

My Courageous Friend PAIGE

This sense of humour and strength has been an inspiration to all those who are fortunate enough to know or meet Paige.  She has taken the initiative to raise funds for the CANDLELIGHTERS Childhood Cancer Support Inc, an organization that was her family’s saving grace, at every opportunity and over the past 10 years has raised in excess of $60,000 through a variety of unique fund raising projects.  She makes me proud every day!

One of Paige's first Fundraisers when she was on a weekend pass from the hospital. We made a great team!

In the past few years, Paige has raised awareness for childhood cancer, the CANDLELIGHTERS  and the Canadian Cancer Society by getting up in front of audiences of up to 1400 people and telling her cancer story in hopes of inspiring other young people to get involved.  She has been recognized with various awards for her courage and inspiration;  The City of Ottawa youth Award for Courage, Youth Citizen of the Year, United Way Community Builder Award and recently named a HERO OF HOPE by the Canadian Cancer Society (one of four Canadians chosen for this award).    Just this past September, Paige was chosen as the Ambassador for the CANDLELIGHTERS Childhood Cancer Support Inc and toured the region promoting SEPTEMBER as CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH.  She encouraged others to support the CANDLELIGHTERS Charity.  A charity that was/and is, such a huge help to her and her family.  I was fortunate to be her “WING WOMAN” (as she so affectionately called me) at many of her speaking engagements over the years and every time she spoke she managed to move me and her captive audience to tears; TRULY INSPIRATIONAL!

Paige giving her Inspirational speech at the CANDLELIGHTERS GALA dinner promoting SEPTEMBER as CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH. I am her "Wing Woman" modeling her Courage Beads

It has now been ten (10) years since Paige’s diagnosis.  She still uses a wheelchair (she can use her walker for short distances), has severe breathing issues due to damage of her frenic nerve, is very tiny (her growth was stunted due to the radiation treatment to her brain), has short term memory and cognizant learning disabilities but she continues to inspire me and others with her strong character, sense of humour and zest for life. She is always saying, “Don’t sweat the small stuff!  ( Unless of course I AM THE SMALL STUFF)!”

Paige ends all of her motivational speeches with her favourite quote and her personal mantra;

“Cherish your Yesterdays, Dream your Tomorrows but  LIVE YOUR TODAYS!” 

She is AN INSPIRATION!  She is A CANCER CHAMPION!  She is my HERO!  She is my FRIEND!

“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”EleanorRoosevelt

Help me to spread her message by sharing her story with others.

Stay tuned,

GRACIE

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:, , , ,
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Posted On:May 1, 2013 Categories:Charity Platform, Childhood Cancer Awareness Blog Series

My CHARITY PLATFORM – CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS

CHARITY PLATFORM

CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS

Can you imagine being seven years old and being told that your best friend; the friend that you played Barbies with, went to dance class with and had overnight sleepovers almost every weekend with, was diagnosed with Brain Cancer?  At 8 years old? 

This was a moment in my life that changed my world!  One of my best friends went to the doctor because she was having headaches and some balance issues and was given the devastating news that she had a massive malignant  tumour on her brain.  Over the next 10 years, I spent a great deal of time with my friend during her treatment protocol, working with her rehabilitation exercises, spending time in the cancer ward at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario and helping her with her numerous fund raising initiatives. 

Do you know anything about childhood cancer?  Do you know how many children in Canada are diagnosed every year.  The facts are staggering!

  • There are about 10,000 children living with cancer in Canada today.
  • Each year, about 1500 cases are diagnosed
  • More than 70 percent of children diagnosed with cancer become long-term survivors and the majority of them are considered cured. However, long-term effects of surviving the treatments for childhood cancer can affect these children’s futures.
  • Leukemias, tumors of the brain and nervous system, the lymphatic system, kidneys, bones and muscles are the most common childhood cancers.
  • In Canada, childhood cancer remains responsible for more deaths from one year through adolescence than any other disease; more deaths than asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and AIDS combined.
  • About one in four children who are diagnosed with cancer will die of the disease.
  • With a mortality rate of close to 25%, Canada loses tens of thousands of years of potential life each year to childhood cancer. In terms of potential life saved, childhood cancer rank second only to breast cancer.

How are Childhood Cancers different from Adult cancers?

Childhood cancers differ from adult cancers. Adults are most affected by breast, lung, prostate, bowel and bladder cancers. Children are most affected by acute leukemia, tumours of the brain and nervous system, the lymphatic system, kidneys, bones and muscles.

Leukemia is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in children, comprising some 30% of the total new cases diagnosed each year. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common form and comprises about 75% of these cases.

Lymphomas and cancers of the central nervous system are the second most diagnosed children’s cancer, at 17% of total cancers diagnosed.

Sarcomas, or cancers of the muscles, bones, nerves, fat, blood or connective tissue are next at 12%, with boys 25-30% more likely to contract this form of cancer.

Neuroblastomas, which represent 95% of tumors in the sympathetic nervous system, represent 5% of all childhood cancers.

Over the past years, I have been advocating with my friend and her family to raise awareness and funds for    CANDLELIGHTERS, Childhood Cancer Support Inc. and other charities that support the young cancer warriors and their families who battle valiantly every day.  In 2012, I was honoured to be crowned Miss Teen Ontario East and during my year’s reign, it was my responsibility as a titleholder of the organization, to raise awareness and funds for their charity focus;  Childhood Cancer Awareness.  It was an emotionally inspiring year and gave me the opportunity to continue the work started by my predecessor Hillary MacMillan Miss Teen Ontario East 2011. 

It is so important to educate the public about Childhood cancer and the charities that support those affected. It is predominant in the lives of those affected, but often overlooked by the general population.  Awareness is the key to making a difference and getting others involved!

As Miss Teen Eastern Ontario-World 2013, it is my goal to bring awareness to a national audience.  I would like everyone to be aware of what a GOLD AWARENESS RIBBON means! 

I would like to take this unique opportunity to do a special CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS BLOG SERIES as part of my objective to spread awareness of my Charity Platform. Over the next few weeks, I will be introducing you to some of the incredible young Cancer champions that have truly impacted my life. It is my hope that by sharing their stories, their challenges and their incredible strength and character, it will prompt you to get involved in a childhood cancer charity like the CANDLELIGHTERS Childhood Cancer Support Inc. that offer programs, support and financial assistance to these amazing kids and their families.  These young heroes need to take on their cancer demons on their own, but we can all help to make their journey just a little bit more bearable. 

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.”

Stay Tuned for Installment #1 of my Childhood Cancer Awareness Blog: “ALL ABOUT PAIGE”

Gracie

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:, , ,
2 comments
Posted On:April 25, 2013 Categories:Charity Platform

My Qualifying Pageant – Teen Ontario East Pageant

TEEN ONTARIO EAST PAGEANT 2013

 

It is so hard to believe that my reign as Miss Teen Ontario East 2012 has come to an end.  WHAT AN EXPERIENCE I have had!

 

2nd Runner Up Emma English, ME, 1st Runner Up Kathryn David our 2012 "T.O.E. TEAM"

I was crowned Miss Teen Ontario East 2012 on April 15, 2012 and that evening ignited a year that I will never forget.  I was able to share my year with the 2012 1st Runner Up Kathryn David and 2nd Runner Up Emma English.  The year involved appearances and volunteer opportunities with a variety of charity associations, regional events, speaking appearances and media guest spots.   I was given the opportunity to meet some amazing young childhood cancer champions while promoting the Teen Ontario East charity platform;  CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS.  They inspire me every day with their strength and zest for life.  I was  given the unique opportunity to meet many of these amazing young heroes, hear their stories and be their spokesperson at several charity functions where we were raising awareness of, and funds for, childhood cancer charities.  It has been an honour and a privilege to be a part of their lives.

Teen Ontario East Pageant Weekend 2013 began on Thursday April 2ndat the Orientation meeting when I first met the 20 young ladies vying for the title.  What a fantastic group of delegates.  Thursday night, after Orientation and a lovely welcome dinner it was right into rehearsals with the Teen Ontario East Pageant’s amazing choreographer Melissa.  The weekend went by so quickly and suddenly before I knew it, it was Show time. It was a

Co-Hosting 2013 Ontario East Pageant with Jason Smith

good thing that I was busy all night with Co-Hosting duties because I wasn’t allowed to  think about my year officially coming to an end.  I managed to keep it together to give my closing address and my final walk as Miss Teen Ontario East 2012.  What a year!  What an experience!  I removed my crown backstage and was called upon by my predecessor and best friend Miss Teen Eastern Ontario World Hillary MacMillan to come on stage and be officially crowned with my new regional title; Miss Teen Eastern Ontario World 2013.

Crowned Miss Teen Eastern Ontario World 2013 by Hillary MacMillan Teen Eastern Ontario World 2012

I wear my regional title proudly and I know I have very big shoes to fill with both of my previous “MTOE SISTERS” (Caroline Holley and Hillary MacMillan) having represented our pageant and region so well over the past two years at MTC-W.  Ladies, I will do my best to do you proud!

 

 

Then all too soon, the 2013 Teen Ontario East Crowning moment arrived!  Tianna Tettemer was crowned 2nd Runner Up 2013.  My friend and fellow RAIDER,  Sara-lyn Deslaurier was crowned 1stRunner Up 2013 and I crowned my successor Miss Teen Ontario East 2013 SONYA BERGIN.

GOOD LUCK TO: Sara-Lyn Deslaurier 1st Runner Up 2013, Miss Teen Ontario East 2013 SONYA BERGIN and 2nd Runner Up 2013 Tianna Tettemer

I wish these three amazing young women the best of luck as they embark on a fun-filled year.  Enjoy every event and every moment!

Our Teen Ontario East "Sisterhood" with Gracie Stewart, Hillary MacMillan, Tegan Patmore and Caroline Holley

My personal congratulations to the volunteer hard-working committee who organizes and presents  the Teen Ontario East Pageant.  It was the BEST SHOW YET!

And now, my new official duties as Miss Teen Eastern Ontario begin!

Stay tuned!

GRACIE

Written by: Gracie Stewart Tagged with:, ,
1 comment
Posted On:April 22, 2013 Categories:Teen Canada World, Teen Ontario East Pageant