Spread the Love

Today's post is a very important one. Don't worry. I'm not going to preach. Just tell you about something I think is important, and even with this economy, would be an easy to spread the love. Don't read any further if you can't give me 5 minutes of your undivided attention. As I said, this is something very important to me and helps support a lot of people who need the support.

What the heck is the point you may be asking by now. Well, Meaghan from I kicked Cancer's Ass and Get the Bean fame had a really wonderful idea, and I'm trying to help her out.

You know she's a big supporter of Cancer fighters as she had Cancer herself. She wants to get a bunch of people to send handmade items to some Cancer fighters. Like a penpal thing. We all know how handmade items make people happy. I think this is wonderful way to support a bunch of people who could use it, and who I personally think, don't get enough attention. Seriously, who of us here hasn't known someone with cancer?! My grandmother had breast cancer, and my father had colon cancer that spread to his lungs. Both are doing well right now, and I'm so thankful for that.



Without further adieu, here is a short interview with Meaghan to explain the program a little more.

1: How Did You Come Up With This Idea:

I have been in touch with several other bloggers who give to people fighting cancer. Recently Kelley over at Amy's Angels wrote a guest post on my blog about her card project. That same day I was surfing the net and saw so many giveaways! Beautiful handmade crafts everywhere I looked. Then it hit me! Why not match up all these talented folks with the many people fighting cancer who need something to make them smile...and then a project was born!

2: Why did You start this Program:

When I had cancer it was so difficult. I faced treatments daily, surgeries almost weekly, throwing up, bags containing my waste...not fun. I was often scared, sad, angry all sorts of not great emotions. But, everyday when I got back to either my hospital room or if I was lucky my house I had something special waiting for me. Some days I had a card or fruit basket, CDs, blankets, stuffed animals....something. It was that moment when I was opening my present that I smiled, was happy and felt like a "normal" preson. These little gifts, no matter how small, helped me through such a difficult time. They gave me strenght when I felt hopeless! This is something that all cancer fighters should have and if there is anyway I can give it, well thats what I am going to do!

3: Who Can Participate?

Anyone! If you have a shop, a talent or something that you think a fighter would love then you can participate! Nothing is too small. Maybe one of your children likes to make cards or you have a box of cards you've been meaning to send out. It can be anything, its truly the thought that counts.

4: What if I'm not Crafty:

You don't have to be crafty to give! Many cancer patients would be thrilled just to recieve a hallmark card letting them know there is someone out there that cares. Or Chapstick for those dry lips from chemo. You don't have to spend a lot or anything at all. And think how wonderful it will make you feel, no amount of money will be able to give you that feeling of joy you will get when you send your gift out in the mail! And who knows, maybe you will make a life long friend. Maybe you can provide support for someone who is afraid! The possibilities are endless.

5: What handmade items are you looking for?

there is something for everyone! A special necklace that someone can wear close to their heart, a blanket to keep them warm during chemo treatments, a painting someone can look at while they are laying in bed recovering from treatments, a journal to document their journey, a bag to carry magazines, books and pills. If you make something I can find someone who would appreciate the kindness. Handmade items are made with love and when you receive a hand made item that love lives within it. I cherished all the handmade gifts I received when I was battling. On the darkest of days I would hold them close to my heart for strenght, and boy did they help me!

6: Do I send the Items to You?

No. I just match you up with someone. Once you get in touch with me and tell me what you would like to give I will send you an email with a list of people who are in need. I will tell you a little bit about each of them and then you can decide who to give to. i will then provide you with their address.

7: Will I find out a little bit about the person who I'm sending to:

Of course. After you tell me what you would like to give, or why, I will find several people I think would match with you. I will tell you a bit about each person. Then you tell me who you would like the gift to go to. i will give you their address so if you chose to provide the person with your email or phone number that is up to you.

8: How do I sign up to participate:

Email Meaghan at megse5@netscape.net. When I receive your email I will respond as quickly as possible!

There you have it! I apologize for the long post, but as you can see, this is close to my heart. I've all ready signed up to participate. If you're interested, please see Meaghan's post on her blog to get a few of the details or her email again. For those of you with a handmade business, you will get a little exposure from this, but please, don't just do it for that reason!

Hope everyone has a good day!