Life and Death, and not in the abstract either

Life is short.  This idea has run through my mind repeatedly in the past few days.  I'm not sure if it's from the simple enjoyment of fleeting glimpses of summer finally arriving in Chicago or if it's the moments of joy I've had with dear ones or if my mind is simply reminding of me of all that is temporary.  I've been preoccupied for some time over needless worries (in the larger scheme).  In a way, this mental nagging has become a welcome reality check.

At some point over the holiday weekend, I recalled this movie and thought I'd post a quick scene.  The movie is based off a play entitled W;t or Wit.  Emma Thompson portrays Professor Bering, a 50-year old woman who is dying from ovarian cancer.

As the scene notes, the main character realizes that she would prefer kindness over intellect.  Not a bad question for all of us to consider.  What do you think you will long for in your last few hours on Earth?

Intro to the CiC Crew: "TBiz"

The CiC team consists of several hard-working and dedicated NetIP Chicago members, most of whom are professionals or aspiring professionals dedicating their free time for our goal.   This particular committee is lead by a few, including the lovely lady on the left in the picture.  Known as "T-Biz", Trusha has one of those spirits that sort of envelopes you with a sense of comfort.  So much so that I've occasionally snuggled up to her after long CiC sessions in the wee hours of the morning (yes, be jealous, Fellas).

She's Rockafella meets Common Sense, with a touch of "true" thrown in.  She'll encourage you when you feel like you're drowning and give you a dose of reality when you're clearly sitting in fairyland.

Our Miss T may not have a mohawk or gold chains, but she's got plenty of attitude.  The Right Attitude.

Yes, It's Ironic... I Really Do Think

Remember that song?  The one that helped place Alanis Morissette among the top female artists in the early 90s?

I heard a bit of news today that falls into that sad, twisted category as one of life's bitter ironies.  An oncologist from my particular Indian community was recently diagnosed with cancer.  Apparently, "[the prognosis] is not good... [the cancer] has spread all over her body."  She, far beyond many, is quite likely to know the ins and outs of this disease.  She and her family have difficult times ahead, and my heart goes out to them.

As Alanis phrased it, "Life has a funny way of sneaking up on you."  In this case, that sneaky bully is called Cancer and I am ready to throw down.  Help us kick its butt.

The 5Ws: More About CiC

Here's the skinny on all this CiC stuff....

About the Charity.
The theme for the fundraiser is Cancer is Colorblind (CiC). Our vision entails mobilizing the Greater Chicago community with a number of pre-gala events and a large-scale gala hosting over 400 attendees for an evening featuring cultures from across the globe and a formal dinner at the Galleria Marchetti on November 20th. The purpose of CiC is to raise funds for cancer-related programming and research, while honoring cancer survivors who have made an impact in the local community.

About NetIP.
NetIP is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with national affiliation throughout the United States. NetIP places a strong emphasis on making the success of our members relevant to the community. Last year we hosted a charity gala to benefit victims of domestic violence. Teaming with Apna Ghar (a domestic violence shelter) we raised over $50,000 and drew a crowd of more than 450 individuals from all sectors of the Chicago community. Given the impact of our community outreach efforts, we are conducting our CiC fundraiser this year.

Pre-Gala Events.
To kick-off the CiC campaign, we plan to host a number of pre-gala events to raise awareness and encourage grassroots fundraising for the cause. Our pre-gala events include a Wicker Park Pub Crawl (June 12) [100 participants], a 5K Run/Walk at Soldier Field (August 14) [300 participants], Celebrity Golf Tournament (September 25) [72 participants], and a Bone Marrow Drive (TBA).

About the Beneficiaries.
Our proceeds will directly benefit two hospitals which serve diverse communities and patient populations. Children's Memorial is a renowned institution that was ranked 14th in the nation for its pediatric oncology services by US News & World Report in 2009; this hospital has served over 140,000 children in the last year with patients coming from every state and over 36 nations. Sinai Health System, located on the west side of Chicago, is one of the city's safety net hospitals; 72% of the patients either have no insurance or utilize Medicaid. Yet, regardless of economic status, this hospital firmly upholds the belief that all its patients should receive the same standard of care.

How can you help?
Here's the key. Spread the word. All support is appreciated, even free advertising via word of mouth. In the end, we're a group of young professionals trying to make a difference. If you'd like to donate to my cause, you can do so at: http://canceriscolorblind.org/IC4Marina

Here's more about our efforts: www.canceriscolorblind.org. Check us out on facebook.

Or you can create a fundraising page of your own and set up shop. Lastly, if you're interested in becoming a sponsor for ANY of our events- pregala or gala- let me know. We welcome all support.

Here's our next upcoming event:

Genesis

So it's begun. I accepted the challenge. And now I am committed to the NetIP Chicago Cancer is Colorblind (CiC) campaign. This little endeavor began when I first joined the NetIP Chicago Executive Board at the start of the year and was immediately indoctrinated with the CiC campaign.

I've been watching this baby grow over time, through all the trauma of infancy and childhood, and it's amazing to see how it's really coming into it's own. We now have several pre-gala events planned, details for the event set, and core committee members dedicating hours each week. As I never took such a personal role with a fundraising effort before, it's probably been just as much of a growth experience for me. I had to create my first fundraising page and get over my inhibitions to ask my loved ones I know for money.

Here's my link: http://www.canceriscolorblind.org/pledge/index.cfm?mid=IC4MARINA

As I work with committees to pull together needed materials and execute this campaign, I recall all the little tricks and tips of working with groups. And occasionally yell at my wall after I finish a particularly frustrating meeting. I am forced to juggle my time, energy, and finances with all my different commitments. I must stay focused even when it seems like no is paying attention or we're in over our heads.

But... there are these small persistent moments of satisfaction each time we solve something. Each time we accomplish another task. Each time we move one step closer to our goal. And for that, I keep moving forward. Yes, I think I can I think I can I think I can.... Yes, I will.