HELP the WILD Cats at Shambala Preserve with Tippi Hedren

March 6, 2009 by Rebbekah
Filed under Boston Shows, Shambala Preserve

The Roar Foundation, founded in 1983 by Tippi Hedren, exists solely to support the Shambala Preserve. Shambala Preserve is the Wildcat foundation set up to help save wild cats that were abandoned after “being domesticated”.

Boo the Black Panther

The preserve needs 1 million dollars a year to run, please help support Shambala.org by spreading the word, donating or becoming a member today!

“Our mission is to educate the public about the dangers of private ownership of exotic animals. Huge numbers of dangerous animals are bred and sold in the United States for illegal purposes. Private ownership presents a grave danger to the public and is cruel and unfair. More stringent legislation is needed to prohibit breeding and selling. We are actively involved on federal as well as state levels.”

Patrick the Liger

“Shambala is home to more than 70 big cats: lions, tigers, cougars, black and spotted leopards, servals, bobcats, Asian leopard cats, a jungle cat, a lynx, and one very magnificent liger. All have come to the Preserve after confiscation by authorities such as California Fish and Game, the United States Department of Agriculture, the ASCPA, and various Humane Societies. They are from roadside zoos and private citizens who realize that they have purcahsed an animal that they can no longer handle.”

from Shambala website

Meet Tippi Hedren and her animal preserve Shambala:

Tippi Hedren Founder of Shambala

From Hitchcock and Chaplin to Ed Wood, Jr., and from drama and terror to droll comedy, the career of actress Tippi Hedren has been meteoric, and eclectic.

As volunteer International Relief Coordinator for “FOOD FOR THE HUNGRY”, she traveled worldwide to set up relief programs following earthquakes, hurricanes, famine and war. She aided “boat people” in the South China Sea from a “FOOD FOR THE HUNGRY” rescue ship. Lobbying efforts on behalf of Asian refugees have taken her before Congress and have earned her numerous awards including the “Humanitarian Award” presented to her by the B’hai Faith. She has been honored by the USO for entertaining troops in Vietnam and by the CELEBRITY OUTREACH FOUNDATION for her charitable work.

She began her long love affair with wild animals in 1969 while doing a film, Satan’s Harvest, in Africa. She “met” a mellow lion, and much of her life since then has been devoted to the big cats.

Deeply involved with international conservation groups to save wildlife, and an outspoken voice against cruelty to animals, both wild and domestic, she’s a board member of “The Wildlife Safari”, founded by her friend, Frank Hart, in Winston, Oregon. She also served on the board of “The Elsa Wild Animal Appeal” founded by her friend, the late Joy Adamson. And currently, she is on the Board of Directors of Earth Communications Office (ECO), and President of the newly-formed “American Sanctuary Association.” Her other charity work includes serving on The Board of Directors of The Women’s Council of KCET (Channel 28), The Minnesota Film Council, The American Heart Association, The March of Dimes, Multiple Sclerosis, International Orphans, Inc., and several AIDS causes. She has been honored with “The Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Annual Humane Award” (1995), the prestigious Founder’s Award from the American Society or the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (1996) and the “Lion and Lamb Award” from Wildhaven (1997) for her work on behalf of animal rights and conservation.

Perhaps Tippi Hedren’s most unique endeavor is being “den mother” and close friend to sixty-odd big cats - lion, tiger, leopard, cougar, and serval at The Roar Foundation’s Shambala Preserve near Acton, California.

The high desert animal preserve is home to the felines and pachyderms and was first established as an African-type set for the motion picture, Roar, which Tippi co-produced and starred in with her daughter, film actress Melanie Griffith. After the five year filming was completed, it became the current, non-profit center for big cat care and research.

In keeping with her outlook on the environment and conservation, many of Shambala’s residents are cast-offs from private owners, zoos and circuses. “They’re living out their lives in safety and comfort.” The Preserve is open to the public on a reservation basis. Tippi is founder and President of The Roar Foundation and resides at Shambala in a cottage surrounded by big cat compounds. “I awaken to their roars.” The story of Tippi’s life and the animals “dearest to her heart” was told in Simon & Schuster’s The Cats of Shambala (1985). An updated edition will soon be available in paperback.

Several documentaries have been produced about the Shambala Preserve including, Lions: Kings of the Serengeti by the Richard Diercks Co, Inc. which won the Telly Award in 1995 for outstanding video documentary; and Life With Big Cats (1998), produced for Animal Planet, which won the Genesis Award for best documentary in 1999.

Tippi continues to work frequently in motion pictures, theatre, episodic and cable television, and her contributions to world cinema have been honored with Life Achievement awards in France at The Beauvais Film Festival Cinemalia 1994, and in Spain by The Fundacion Municipal De Cine in 1995. In 1999, Tippi was honored as “Woman of Vision” by Women of Film and Video in Washington, D.C., and received the Presidential Medal for her work in film from Hofstra University. And in 2000, Tippi was honored as “Best Actress in a Comedy Short” in the film “Mulligans!” at the Method Fest, Independent Film Festival, and in 2002, Tippi won “best Actress” for the short film “Tea With Grandma” from the New York International Independent Film Festival.

The Roar Foundation, founded in 1983 by Tippi Hedren, exists solely to support the Shambala Preserve. Shambala Preserve is the Wildcat foundation set up to help save wild cats that were abandoned after “being domesticated”. Help Tippi, the cats and the foundation today by going to http://www.shambala.org and becoming a member, donating or purchasing items from their online store.

All supporters who donate $5.00 will have their website links added to our Recommended Links section on HYTR & HY Magazine plus a special thank you will be sent out to our newsletter as our way of thanking you. Thank you again for all your love and support.

Tags: exotic animals, Shambala Preserve, Shambala.org, The Roar Foundation, Tippi Hedren, wild cats preserves

February is National Cancer Prevention Month

February 17, 2009 by Rebbekah
Filed under Cancer Schmancer

How You Can Help

January 14, 2009 by Rebbekah
Filed under Cancer Schmancer, Featured

1 Comment

From Cancer Schmancer

10. HELP BUILD A MOVEMENT –One of the best and simplest ways to help expand the Cancer Schmancer Movement is by becoming a spokesperson for it. Help spread the message about our mission of education, legislation, and social reform by posting links on your personal blogs, social networking sites, and public forums to us through

www.CancerSchmancer.org, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. That was easy!

9. BECOME AN ADVOCATE – Urge your friends, family, sorority, PTA and other community organizations to Sign up to become Cancer Schmancer members so they can receive monthly e-newsletters and action alerts from the Cancer Schmancer Movement. Also, remind them to visit our Take Action Now page and our Legislative Center to learn about current national legislative initiatives that the Cancer Schmancer Movement believes will improve women’s cancer health care in the United States.

8. SPREAD THE GIFT OF KNOWLEDGE – Go beyond the dreaded email forwards by posting this simple cheat sheet about the early warning signs of women’s cancers in newsletters, on community bulletin boards, your personal blogs, and social networking sites. You can even stick it into birthday cards and holiday cards or print mini versions to use as gift tags. The sky is the limit, so get creative. You may just save a life.

7. DONATE – Searching for the perfect birthday present, wedding gift, or holiday gift? Make a charitable contribution in honor of your loved one! If you’re hosting a party or special event, ask your guests to donate to the charity of your choice – Cancer Schmancer – in lieu of bringing you gifts. Donate to the Cancer Schmancer Movement or purchase merchandise from our online store, proceeds of which help us educate more women and advocate for improved women’s cancer health care.

6. HOST A CANCER SCHMANCER TEA PARTY - There are Tupperware parties, wine tasting parties, home and garden parties, and even lingerie parties! What about inviting over your friends for a Cancer Schmancer tea party? Purchase the Cancer Schmancer Tea Party DVD from our Online Store, invite the girls over, make some tea, sit back and relax as you watch this entertaining, heartwarming, and educational video together. The person’s life you save may be right on the couch next to you.

5. RUN OR WALK FOR STAGE 1 DIAGNOSIS OF CANCER – Show your support by creating a Cancer Schmancer team at your local cancer walk. Purchase t-shirts from our Online Store and wear them that day. You’ll have everyone coming up to you, saying, “Cancer Schmancer!”

4. TALK TO YOUR DOCTORS – Ever sit in your doctor’s reception area, waiting for your appointment and there’s nothing else to do other than read 8 month old magazines and twiddle your thumbs? Encourage your general practitioner and gynecologist to support the Cancer Schmancer Movement by airing the Cancer Schmancer Tea Party DVD in the waiting room. By watching the DVD, their patients can learn how to take control of their bodies, learn the early warning signs of various cancers, become better partners with their physicians, and transform from patients into medical consumers.

3. GET YOUR COMPANY INVOLVED – Women make up 50% of the US workforce and since you will spend nearly 1/3 of your lifetime working, it’s important to get your company on board with ensuring their employees live long and healthy lives. Here are two easy ways you can partner with your workplace to support the Cancer Schmancer mission:

Employee Giving – Contact your Human Resources department to set up an employee giving program, dedicating a portion of each paycheck to the Cancer Schmancer Movement. Your contributions can have double the impact if your company commits to a employee matching program.

Company Sponsorship – Encourage your workplace to provide financial support to either Cancer Schmancer Movement’s education or advocacy program. To be more active, your company can host and underwrite a Cancer Schmancer fundraising event. For more information, contact our staff at sponsor@cancerschmancer.org or call 888-621-2001 ext. 621.

For more ideas on how to get your company involved, click here.

2. HOST A SPECIAL EVENT - To make this a million member movement, we must get communities across the United States on board with in the Cancer Schmancer mission. Here’s three examples you can get your town involved:

Fashion Show – Organize a dinner/dance and get your local clothing designers and boutiques to model their season’s latest fashion line. Collect admission prices and ask the designers to donate a portion of their sales from the evening to the Cancer Schmancer Movement. Together, you can all take the stage for Stage 1 diagnosis.

Women’s Day – Although International Women’s Day takes place on March 8^th, there’s always a reason to celebrate women any day of the year! Plan a day to get women of all ages in your community to come together and learn about early diagnosis of cancer, and how they can stay healthy. Set up a computer where participants can

events@cancerschmancer.org or call our Program Coordinator at 888-621-2001 ext. 624 for free brochures and bulk discount rates on DVDs.

Participate in a Town Hall Meeting – Utilize the opportunity to voice your opinion about women’s cancer healthcare during your next town’s meeting. Bring a few friends and let your elected officials know they are answerable to their voting records and our needs as women can no longer be dismissed.

Click here for additional fundraising, education, and advocacy events you can organize.

1. START A CANCER SCHMANCER CLUB IN YOUR TOWN – Lock elbows with community members to help us create a grass-root campaign focusing on education, legislation, and social reform. If you want to see late stage diagnosis of cancer become a thing of the past, start your own Cancer Schmancer Club. Contact our Program Coordinator at 888-621-2001 ext. 624 to find out more!

*Talk to us! We want to know your thoughts and ideas about how we can improve to further our mission of improving women’s healthcare. E-mail us at info@cancerschmancer.org or give us a call at 888-621-2001.*

Five minutes is all it takes!

Through education, legislation, and social reform, the Cancer Schmancer Movement will alert our elected officials that the collective female vote is more powerful than that of the richest corporate lobbyist.

Five minutes is all it takes to raise your voice to ensure our government makes early cancer detection a priority.

Join the Cancer Schmancer Movement by going to Cancer Schmancer

Tags: Fran Drescher, help support cancer schmancer

Cancer Schmancer Partners with DivineCaroline

January 14, 2009 by Rebbekah
Filed under Cancer Schmancer

Women’s Cancer Risk Factors and Warning Signs

January 14, 2009 by Rebbekah
Filed under Cancer Schmancer

3 Comments

Found on Fran Drescher’s site Cancer Schmancer

ADNEXAL MASS RISK FACTORS & WARNING SIGNS

Did you know?
Adnexal mass refers to a mass that has grown in the uterine adnexa, which includes the tube and ovary. Adnexal masses are found in women of all ages - from fetuses to the elderly. They are most likely to be malignant in girls younger than 15. Usually these masses are functional cysts that disappear on their own and need no treatment. The chance of a woman developing a malignant adnexal mass is approximately 1.5 percent over the course of her lifetime.

What should you look for?
See a healthcare professional if any of these symptoms persist and are unusual for you:

Pelvic pain
Irregular menstrual periods
Pressure on the bladder or rectum
An increase in the frequency of urination or constipation.
Adnexal mass may twist, cutting off the blood supply to the ovary, causing sudden severe pain (called an ovarian torsion)
Many women produce no symptoms at all and adnexal mass may be found by the gynecologist during a routine exam

Take control of your body! Most women with small adnexal masses will have no symptoms at all, so it is important to visit your doctor for routine exams. To determine the cause of any symptoms, a doctor can perform a physical exam or perform a pelvic exam (a doctor usually finds adnexal masses during a pelvic exam). Another test that can dectect adnexal mass is an ultrasonography where the doctor will order a pelvic sonogram (ultrasound).

This information was provided by the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation and its Women’s Cancer Network (www.wcn.org).

BREAST CANCER RISK FACTORS & WARNING SIGNS

Did you know?
Simply being a woman is a major risk factor for developing breast cancer. Breast cancer can affect men, but it is about 100 times more common in women. One in eight women in the United States will get breast cancer in her lifetime. This year about 211,240 women in the United States will be told they have breast cancer. About 1,690 men will. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. A woman’s risk of developing breast cancer increases as she gets older. The majority of new cases are in women age 50 and older. Having a mammography can find breast cancer at an early stage usually before symptoms occur. Many studies have shown that early detection saves lives. Plus, it increases the options for treatment.

What should you look for?
See a healthcare professional if any of these symptoms persist and are unusual for you:

A painless lump or thickening in the breast. The most common area to find a mass is the upper, outer quadrant of the breast
Bleeding from the nipple
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Thickening or puckering of the skin over the breast
A change in the size or shape of your breast
Nipple discharge, tenderness, or inversion, meaning the nipple pulls back into your breast
A change in the way the skin of your breast, areola, or nipple looks or feels. (For example, the skin may look like the skin of an orange.)

You should learn the early warning signs of cancer. Take control of your body! According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), if you are over 40, you should have a mammogram each year. You should do monthly self-breast exams starting at age 20. Your self-check should be 7 days after your period or for menopausal women, around the same day each month. A doctor may also order an ultrasonography, which uses sound waves to find out whether a lump is solid or filled with fluid. Clinical breast exams are also useful. Feeling your breast can help your doctor figure out the size and texture of any abnormalities.

This information was provided by the Cedars-Sinai Women’s Cancer Research Institute, and the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation and its Women’s Cancer Network (www.wcn.org).

CERVICAL CANCER RISK FACTORS & WARNING SIGNS

Did you know?
A vaccine is now available which protects against four types of human papillomavirus (HPV) and can prevent the majority of cervical cancers. Approved for girls/women, ages 9-25 years, the vaccine is given as a series of 3 shots over a six-month period. *Nearly all women with cervical cancer have human papillomavirus (HPV).

About 9,710 women will find out they have invasive cervical cancer this year. This year, about 3,700 women will die from cervical cancer. Hispanic women and African-American women are more likely to get cervical cancer than non-Hispanic white women. Half of the women who get cervical cancer are between 30 and 55 years of age.

A pap smear is the best way to screen for early cervix cancer. Cervical cancer is highly curable if caught early!

What should you look for?
See a healthcare professional if any of these symptoms persist:

Abnormal vaginal bleeding and/or bleeding/spotting after intercourse
Pelvic pain
Blood in urine
Back pain
Swelling in one leg
Unexplained weight loss or gain
More vaginal discharge than usual. This discharge is often bloody or foul smelling.
Strange odor from vaginal discharge.
Pain during sexual intercourse

Often women do not show any symptoms. You should learn the early warning signs of cancer. Take control of your body! You should have a pap smear at least once a year after age 18 or at the onset of first sexual relations, whichever comes first. Also, a pelvic exam is recommended as a regular screening for women. You may have a Pap test and human papillomavirus (HPV) test during a pelvic exam.

This information was provided by the Cedars-Sinai Women’s Cancer Research Institute, and the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation and its Women’s Cancer Network (www.wcn.org).

OVARIAN CANCER RISK FACTORS & WARNING SIGNS

Did you know?
Ovarian cancer occurs in 1 in 55 women, and can occur at any age. Detected early and treated properly, more than 95% of women survive longer than 5 years. Pap tests DO NOT detect ovarian cancer. About 20,180 women will be told they have ovarian cancer in the United States this year. Ovarian cancer causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system.

Historically, ovarian cancer was called the “silent killer” because symptoms were not thought to develop until the chance of cure was poor. However, recent studies have shown that the term is untrue and that the symptoms below are much more likely to occur in women with ovarian cancer than with women in the general population.

Bloating
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Inability to eat normally, especially feeling full quickly
Increased frequency or urgency of urination

What else should you look for?
Women with ovarian cancer have commonly reported several other symptoms. These symptoms, however, can also be found in the general population of women who do not have ovarian cancer. But know your body, and see a healthcare professional if any of these symptoms persist and are unusual for you:

Change in your usual bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea
Nausea, indigestion, abdominal pain or tenderness
Increased size of abdomen/tightness of your clothes
Irregular or abnormal vaginal bleeding
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Backache
Loss of appetite
Shortness of breath
Pain during intercourse
New acne
Facial hair growth
False positive pregnancy test

Take control of your body! If symptoms last more than 2-3 weeks, visit your doctor. You can ask about a combination pelvic/rectal exam, CA 125 blood test, and a transvaginal ultrasound. A doctor can also order a sonogram.

This information was provided by the Cedars-Sinai Women’s Cancer Research Institute, and the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation and its Women’s Cancer Network (www.wcn.org).

UTERINE (ENDOMETRIAL) CANCER RISK FACTORS & WARNING SIGNS

Did you know?
This year about 41,200 women will be told they have uterine cancer. Uterine cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, after breast, lung, and colon cancer. About 7,350 women will die of cancer of the uterus this year.

What should you look for?
See a healthcare professional if any of these symptoms persist and are unusual for you:

Unusual bleeding or discharge from the vagina
Any bleeding from the vagina after menopause
Pain when urinating or when having a bowel movement
Pain during sexual intercourse
Pain in the pelvic area or lower abdomen
Fibroids that grow quickly, especially after menopause.

You should learn the early warning signs of cancer. Take control of your body! If you feel you are at risk, a doctor may order a biopsy to help make a diagnosis. During a biopsy, the doctor removes some tissue from the inner uterine lining, called the endometrium.

This information was provided by the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation and its Women’s Cancer Network (www.wcn.org).

The endometrial brush biopsy is a new method of endometrial biopsy that uses a small brush to gently sweep the endometrium to collect tissue and cells from a wider area of the uterus lining. This means that smaller spots of cancer are less likely to be missed, making earlier diagnosis more possible. For more information, visit: http://www.gynecor.com/introducing_the_trutest.html

VAGINAL CANCER RISK FACTORS & WARNING SIGNS

Did you know?
Although a rare form of the reproductive cancers, about 2,420 women will be diagnosed with the disease this year and an estimated 820 women will die. Most women are older than 60 when diagnosed with vaginal cancer. If you are or have been infected with Human papillomaviruses (HPV) or certain subtypes of HPV, you may be more at risk for vaginal cancer.

What should you look for?
See a healthcare professional if any of these symptoms persist and are unusual for you:

Vaginal bleeding after menopause
Vaginal bleeding after intercourse
Abnormal vaginal discharge
A mass in the vagina that can be felt
Pain during sex
Pain when urinating
Constipation
Constant pain in the pelvis

Take control of your body! If you develop any of the above symptoms and feel you are at risk, a routine visit to have a pelvic exam and Pap test can detect vaginal cancer. Women should also avoid infection of HPV. This can be done by not having sexual intercourse at a very young age, by having protected sex, and by avoiding sex with many people or with those who have had many sexual partners.

This information was provided by the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation and its Women’s Cancer Network (www.wcn.org).

VULVAR CANCER RISK FACTORS & WARNING SIGNS

Did you know?
In 2006 about 3,740 women in the United States were diagnosed with this cancer. A recent survey from the American Cancer Society about vulvar cancer convincingly demonstrated that the incidence of cancer of the vulva is increasing. About 880 women will die this year from vulvar cancer.

What should you look for?
See a healthcare professional if any of these symptoms persist and are unusual for you:

Vulvar itching that does not improve
A change in skin color around the vulva.
A change in the feel of your skin around the vulva.
Wartlike bump/bumps, cauliflowerlike growths, or ulcers/sores on the vulva or clitoral area.
The lump or sore can be red, gray, or white.
Pain when urinating
Burning or bleeding and discharge not related to your menstrual cycle
Enlarged glands in your groin
A new mole on the vulva or a change in a mole that has been present for years
An abnormal mole.

You should learn the early warning signs of cancer. Take control of your body! Get regular Pap tests and pelvic exams beginning about 3 years after first having vaginal intercourse, but no later than age 21. You may have these annually or every other year. It depends upon the type of Pap test your doctor uses.

This information was provided by the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation and its Women’s Cancer Network (www.wcn.org).

Tags: ADNEXAL MASS, breast cancer, cancerschmancer.org, cervical cancer, Fran Drescher, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, Women's Cancer Risk Factors and Warning Signs

Corner4Success with Amie Jo Greer

June 26, 2008 by Rebbekah
Filed under Business Coaching, Corners 4 Success, Personal Inspirations

1 Comment

I am excited to introduce Amie Jo Greer The Voice of Las Vegas. Amie Jo started out on the internet and now has her own broadcast radio show daily in Las Vegas. Today we will be talking about her Non Profit organization Corner4Success Girls Club. Which teaches at risk girls the life skills needed to make a better life.

Amie Jo Greer started out online with her business like so many of us moms do. Amie Jo did interviews and wrote articles on famous people and the successes they had in their lives. Amie Jo shares with us about her first marriage, her children, the successes and set backs in her life. How it is ok to make mistakes as long as we learn from them and how by making those mistakes we are learning a life lesson that we can pass on to others.

Amie Jo is an inspiration to me as she is doing what I dream of one day doing run a real radio show on AM/FM radio. Her story is so much like mine talking to Amie Jo today gave me renewed hope in my dreams once again.

For more information on Amie Jo’s daily radio show and her Corner4Success for at risk girls go to her website at http://www.corner4success.com/home

You can listen to Amie Jo’s shows everyday streaming from http://www.klav1230am.com from Noon to 1 pm pst.

To make a contribution either of services or money to the Corners4Success Girls club go to http://www.corner4success.com and click on the contact button. Someone from the office will get back in touch with you, or feel free to call in to 702-220-8625 and speak to Vicky.

Tags: Amie Jo Greer, Corners 4 Success for at risk girls, The Voice of Las Vegas

Congratulations 1 Year Anniversary of Cancer Schmancer

June 21, 2008 by Rebbekah
Filed under Cancer Schmancer, Fighting Cancer

Updates from Glenn Fenster

March 30, 2008 by Rebbekah
Filed under Epilespy Support

1 Comment

You all remember the show we did back on March 5. Well Glen just sent me an update on what is happening with his organization and I wanted to pass along the information to all my listeners as well.

First in case you haven’t listened show here is some information about Glenn and his son Nyle, you can also listen to the interview by clicking here:

On April 28th, 2008 Glenn Fenster will embark on a 8100 mile bicycle journey from Denver, Colorado to Miami, Florida (the Long Way).

In 2006 Glenn biked 4036 miles from Seattle Washington to Miami Florida, to promote epilepsy awareness, with the support of the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida.

His inspiration and reason for this ambitious undertaking is his 14 year-old son, Nyle, who has suffered from acute epilepsy since he was just two years old. Glenn is riding to show his son that no matter what the disability, everyone has the capacity to reach for their dreams. He does not ride just for his son, but for other kids and adults living with epilepsy.

Updates:

03/20/2008 DestinyMaker founder Glenn A. Fenster is excited to announce today a product sponsorship from CytoMax for the final phase of training and the 2008 DestinyMaker 8100 mile bike ride raising awareness for epilepsy. CytoMax featuring the patented energy source Alpha-L-Polyactate. CytoMax will supply Fenster enough product for final phase of training and everyday on his ride.

03/14/2008The National Epilepsy Foundation named Nyle Fenster of Aventura their new spokesperson on Friday. Nyle, 14, is scheduled to fly April 1 to Washington, D.C., to meet with congressional leaders. He will lobby for epilepsy public health programs and research toward a cure. Nyle is one of 50 young people with epilepsy participating in Kids Speak Up!, a national program coordinated by the Epilepsy Foundation with support from Abbott.The program rallies young ambassadors with epilepsy between the ages of 7 and 16 to advocate for the more than three million Americans living with the condition. ”He is an ideal candidate because of his desire to achieve his goals despite his challenges. Nyle’s courage is an inspiration to us all,” said Eric R. Hargis, president and CEO of the foundation. www.destinymaker.org

NEWS RELEASE – For Immediate Release

FIRST MILE EVENT

Time and Place
Date: Monday, April 28, 2008
Time: 8:00 am - 8:30 am
Location: Hilton Garden Inn
Street: 1400 Welton Street, Denver, Colorado, USA 80202
City/Town: Denver

Destinymaker announces Denver’s Deputy Mayor Bill Vidal will attend, speak

and ride with Glenn one mile representing the City of Denver and it’s citizens.
Glenn heard today just how excited the Deputy Mayor is about joining him

for the symbolic first mile of 8100.

From Denver to Miami (The Long Way) - One Man’s 8100 Mile Bicycle Journey for Epilepsy

On April 28th, 2008 Glenn Fenster of Aventura, Florida will embark on a 8100 mile bicycle journey from Denver, Colorado to Miami, Florida (the Long Way).
Denver
Phoenix
LA
SF
Seattle
Calgary
Toronto
NY
Philadelphia
Atlanta
Orlando
Miami

His inspiration and reason for this ambitious undertaking is his 14 year-old son, Nyle, who has suffered from acute epilepsy since he was just two years old. Glenn is riding to show his son that no matter what the disability, everyone has the capacity to reach for their dreams. He does not ride just for his son, but for other kids and adults living with epilepsy.

In 2006 Glenn biked 4036 miles from Seattle Washington to Miami Florida, to promote epilepsy awareness, supporting the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida. Last year’s ride from Alaska supported Epilepsy services and programs in America and Canada, added another 2500 miles to his journey, along with the challenges of the ‘northern climate’, which can be unpredictable and definitely much colder then what he experienced previously. According to Mr. Fenster, “This upcoming 8100 mile trip pales in comparison to the courage my son and others exhibit each day”. “My son Nyle was diagnosed with Epilepsy when he was two years old. Since then, he has had hundreds of seizures. He has them everyday. They occur when he sleeps. Five years ago on the tennis court he went for a shot and a seizure occurred. He fell to the ground hard. By the time I got to him running as fast as I could the seizure had ended. I gave out my hand to help him up. He refused any help. I asked him, “How do you keep getting up”? He answered, “Dad, I’ve never seen you stay down.” I decided right there I would do something that would raise the awareness of all who suffer from seizures the courage my son shows. Days later I had a plan. I decided to bike from Seattle to Miami (47 days) 4036 miles completed in 2006. In 2007 I biked (65 days) 6200 miles from Alaska to Miami. This year I will bike 8100 miles. One might think the most difficult challenge would be the training. Day after day, riding mile after mile, cycling in rain, wind, heat, darkness. One might think it would be the terrain. Unable to practice in the mountains, they are a struggle to climb. One might think it’s the 50 pounds extra of supplies I have to carry. One might think it would be the exhaustion I feel. One might think it is the loneliness of the asphalt. But no, the most difficult challenge for me is being away from my son. It is my goal by 2010 to have raised $1,000.000. I want to send children like my son to Epilepsy supported summer camps through out America and Canada. I want to break down the walls of stigma associated with Epilepsy. I do this to show everyone that no matter what disability of the mind or body, anything can be accomplished. That my son is like you and I. Epilepsy is what he has, Not who he is.”

From the President’s of Epilepsy Foundations in America and Canada

We commend Glenn Fenster on the start of his 8100-mile bike ride to raise epilepsy awareness. There are continuing myths and misinformation about epilepsy still pervading the media and the mind of the public—including the totally incorrect idea that you should put something in the mouth of a person having a seizure. We applaud Glenn’s efforts to spread the truth about epilepsy. The stigma facing people with epilepsy around the world is one of the greatest enemies they face, and the stigma must end.

Eric Hargis, President of National Epilepsy Foundation

On behalf of the Canadian Epilepsy Alliance/ Alliance Canadienne del l’Épilepsie, we extend our best wishes to Destiny Maker Cyclist, Glenn Fenster, for a safe journey. Glenn, you are doing much to unite those living with epilepsy, increase awareness, and raise funds throughout North America. Your efforts are to be commended. Epilepsy organizations will be on hand to greet and support your amazing journey in each of the Canadian cities you visit. You are doing much to bring epilepsy… ‘out of the shadows’ and into the light. You carry with you the hopes and dreams of people throughout North America whose lives are touched by epilepsy.

Thank you and safe travels!
Catherine Sauerwein, President
Montreal, Canada
Canadian Epilepsy Alliance/ Alliance Canadienne de l’Épilepsie

EPILEPSY ASSOCIATION OF CALGARY

I am writing this letter to provide enthusiastic endorsement for the 2008 Destiny Maker Ride
for Epilepsy. This is my second time being involved with Glenn Fenster’s ride, and I can
personally attest to the unbelievable courage, spirit, and determination of Mr. Fenster in raising both awareness and funds for those living with epilepsy throughout North America, if not throughout out the world. He gives life to the concept, “The Power of One”. Having worked in an epilepsy organization for the past 21 years, I can say without question that I have never seen any effort that equals that of Mr. Fenster. I have personally witnessed and experienced the impact he has had on parents, children, and adults living with epilepsy - and to say that it is “amazing” is an understatement. He has inspired people of all ages and from all walks of life to believe in themselves and believe that a world free of stigma and prejudice is possible, and, that they can help make a difference. He has reduced geographic boundaries and has helped unite people from all over North America. From a child struggling alone in a small town, to a parent coping with epilepsy in a large city, I am proud to say that I have seen the impact Mr. Fenster has made in their lives.

Furthermore, as someone who is passionate and committed to my work in creating awareness and reducing the stigma so commonly associated with epilepsy, Mr. Fenster has also had an enormous impact on me personally - providing a renewed sense of hope and inspiration that can get so easily lost in the day to day struggle of never having enough hours enough people, or enough resources to accomplish all that still needs to be done. However, the Destiny Maker Cycle for Epilepsy is a project that promotes such positive energy - that the extra work associated with welcoming this North American Hero is not nearly the burden one might think - and it pales in comparison to the enormous journey Mr. Fenster will undertake and the personal sacrifices on his part to make a difference for his son and for people throughout North America who live with epilepsy. Now that’s worth celebrating!!!

In Canada, my colleagues and I are preparing to welcome Mr. Fenster, and do what we can to make his journey easier. For the most part, our organizations are small, consisting of as few as one person to a maximum of four to five people. We are looking forward to welcoming Mr. Fenster into our communities, cheering him on, being inspired, supporting, and promoting his efforts to raise the profile of epilepsy. I am more than willing to discuss this ride with a colleague or a potential media member and can be reached at (403) 230-2764 if I can provide any insight or information.

Mr. Fenster deserves no less than all the support we are able to provide!

Kathy Fyfe Executive Director

EPILEPSY ASSOCIATION OF CALGARY

Tags: destiny maker, Epilespy Support, Glenn Fenster

One Man’s 8100 Mile Bicycle Journey for Epilespy

March 6, 2008 by Rebbekah
Filed under Epilespy Support, Family Health, Health, Shows

3 Comments

destiny maker

On April 28thth, 2008 Glenn Fenster will embark on a 8100 mile bicycle journey from Denver, Colorado to Miami, Florida (the Long Way).

Listen to Glenn from our LIVE show interview on Wednesday March 5, 2008

HYTR and other Blog Talk Radio shows will be banning together to follow Glenn on his journey starting on April 28, 2008. If you are interested in helping Glenn in spreading the word about his journey and help raise awareness for Epilespy please write a comment below and Rebekah White will get back to you as soon as possible.

You can also find out more information from Glenn’s site at http://www.destinymaker.org

His inspiration and reason for this ambitious undertaking is his 14 year-old son, Nyle, who has suffered from acute epilepsy since he was just two years old. Glenn is riding to show his son that no matter what the disability, everyone has the capacity to reach for their dreams. He does not ride just for his son, but for other kids and adults living with epilepsy.

In 2006 Glenn biked 4036 miles from Seattle Washington to Miami Florida, to promote epilepsy awareness, with the support of the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida.


SUPPORT GLENN by sending money to the below address or going to his site for more information.
DestinyMaker                             

                       20533 Biscayne Blvd,

                      P.O. Box 1313

                      Aventura, Florida 33180



Please make your gift payable to Glenn Fenster, and write “DestinyMaker Bike Ride” in the memo field. (305) 788-2761

Tags: destiny maker, Glenn Fenster, support epilesy

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