I have always believed that when passion and purpose collide, magical things happen. I never knew how true that was until my son was born. I waited a lifetime for that day and it was at that moment that I knew that he was brought into my life to make a difference. He taught me that “you can make a plan, but you can’t plan the results.” From the moment I held him in my arms, I knew that Max was going to be my teacher rather than the other way around.
Max was born when I was “at the top of my game.” At the time, I was a high powered entrepreneur who had built a successful resort management company. I led a life most would envy. Traveling between countries and experiencing a lifestyle many would wish for, but the truth was – I was miserable. I found no purpose in my work and when I finally had the baby I had dreamed about—I realized that I needed to do something to change not only my attitude, but also my circumstances.
Through many starts and stops I wound my way down the “pot-holed dirt road” and founded an interactive company online (designhergals.comhttp://www.designhergals.com) that allowed users to create their virtual likeness and produce it in an assortment of stationery and gift items. The day I decided to embark on this project I learned that my best friend, Janis, was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer. And like the day my son was born, it is a moment I will never forget. I knew that Janis (and the rest of us) were in for a difficult journey and it was because of that experience (on the heels of my cousin Robin who passed away of Stage IV breast cancer at the age of 45 leaving behind a husband and 6 year old daughter) – I knew that my Design-her Gals must be put to work to make a difference.
I vowed to make the passion and purpose of designhergals.com to raise funds and awareness for Stage IV breast cancer patients. At the same time, I founded the Gal to Gal Foundation, a non-profit charity that donates 100% of its resources and funds to Stage IV breast cancer patients and their families. Before Janis lost her brave battle, she helped us craft the mission statement for the Foundation and I know she and Robin would be proud of the work that we are now doing. Currently we grant the majority of our funds to Making Memories, a wonderful organization who are granting wishes for Stage IV breast cancer patients and their families. But it is our hope to launch in 2008 the first global social networking website that will allow breast cancer patients and their families to connect, engage and obtain resources through the progression of their disease.
This October, I have embarked on one of the most challenging journey of my entire life - making “virtual history” with the launch the first virtual walk across America! www.galtogalwalk.org dedicates itself to Robin and Janis and all the women (and men) who have battled so bravely and lost so graciously. It is our hope that the money we raise by joining together in this inspiring way – will allow those currently living with Stage IV breast cancer to have the opportunity to receive the resources and support that they so greatly deserve.
I was lucky to have walked with Janis in the San Diego 3-day walk the year prior to her death. I will never forget it. It seems fitting that this is a walk that we can all join in together. $3 and 3 minutes will give participants the opportunity to design your virtual walker and watch yourself join thousands of others – including well known celebrities as they walk from the virtual city of Boston (Robin’s hometown) to San Francisco (Janis’ Hometown) and stop in 29 additional cities along the way.
It is my sincere hope that the power the Internet will enable us to make a big difference to so many in a very short period of time. While many of these individuals may not have much time left with their loved ones, the Gal to Gal Foundation is committed to honoring and supporting them as they confront one of the most difficult battles of their life.
