By Ginny Finn, Executive Director of ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis
I love birthday parties. Not just my own, although it is usually fun. I’m a bit odd; other than the creaky knees I relish getting older. Awareness of the precious gift of time is fallout or blessing – you decide – of a breast cancer diagnosis.
So in all sincerity – I cannot wait to celebrate the one year anniversary of the Pink Room at the Intercontinental Hotel on September 22nd. It has all the ingredients of a great gathering.
- A pre-party. At 4:30 pm we start with education sessions that inspire. Two of ABCD’s collaborating organizations, Wisconsin Breast Cancer Coalition and Young Survival Coalition –
Milwaukee, will share their perspectives on current breast cancer issues.
- Libations and tasty nibbles. At 5:30 pm you can top off your busy day with a refreshing beverage and a tasty snack or two.
- Great conversation. Toss in a fun cross-section of people from Milwaukee and you know you’ve got great conversation – Brewers, Packers and serious stuff…like meeting women and men who’ve begun their healing journey after breast cancer.
- Toast to the host. At 6:00 pm we say thank you. ABCD is always a gracious guest and we are thrilled to raise a glass to the team at the Intercontinental Hotel. You really should join us and meet these people. Complete fun…even when work is serious.
- More fun and no clean up duty! We know people come to a party to spend time with people – so the formal program is short and we’ll have plenty of time to read the messages on the Tree of Hope that will grace the hotel lobby. And, the best part of going to a party at someone else’s house…we don’t have to clean up!
You might find my light hearted comments a bit misplaced. But I assure you, if I’ve learned anything from those battling breast cancer it is this: a light heart is essential medicine – an important antidote to be taken again and again when coping with cancer. And, at this birthday party you’ll find many light hearts.
