Bouncing for Breast Cancer

2008-10-07T04:25:00.004+01:00

Bouncing for Breast Cancer

Dear Friend,

The YOUniverse needs YOU to play a wonderful part - your part in an international FUNdraising FUNomenon - right here, right now.

Throughout the month of October 2008, Bouncing for Breast Cancer presents
the first-ever YOU+2 FUNdraising Campaign

WHO WE ARE

In 2006, a personal campaign famously known as Bouncing for Boobs was born from the love & devotion of Priscilla Bokhara for her sister Kathleen, a single mom with breast cancer. It has since turned into an international mission.

Bouncing for Breast Cancer (also known as B4B) is a non profit organisation that provides single mothers living with breast cancer financial and emotional support to aid their treatment and recovery. Our commitment is to improve the quality of life for single mums with breast cancer by supporting their basic needs of life during treatment and recovery so they can focus their energies on healing and being who mums really want to be: their nurturing and loving selves for their kids.

Visit the B4B Forum on the website to get updates on this campaign and to read our story – http://www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org/

YOUR OPPORTUNITY

Ever wonder how amazing it would feel to be involved in an international record-breaking phenomenon for a good cause? Here’s your chance to turn your $1 into $1 million dollars right now…

Every 15 minutes, a woman is diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Chances are you know someone who has had, who currently has, or who will have breast cancer.

By joining this international online, life-line record-breaking FUNdraising FUNomenon, you will become connected with like-minded successful & dynamic individuals from around the world whose passion is about contribution and creating solutions.

Take into your heart right now the gift you’re receiving knowing you will have significantly improved the quality of lives by donating just $1 or more.

Geometric Growth of a $1 donation
1
2
4
8
16
32
64
128
256
512
1,024
2,048
4,096
8,192
16,384
32,768
65,536
131,072
262,144
524,288
1,048,576

HOW IT WORKS!

What can you do in the next 15 mins to improve the quality of life for one or more of our single mums and their kids faced with the most devastating, life-threatening and dream-crushing experience?

Simple:
It starts with YOU+2. Following the Law of Compounding, simply donate $1 and inspire 2 people to do the same, who in turn donate $1 and inspire 2 people to do the same, and so on throughout Breast Cancer Awareness month October 2008. The table demonstrates how simple this geometric growth works.

It’s as easy as following this link and clicking on the donate button.
http://www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org/

… then tell 2 people to do the same and forward this FUNdraising appeal to whomever you’re thinking of now.

Thank you in advance for giving others the opportunity to feel good knowing that they too have contributed to this worthy cause and FUNdraising FUNomenon!

Imagine if you were to donate $5 dollars, $10, $25 or even $100, what would the geometric growth look like then?

What would happen if you would inspire more than 2 people to donate?

How good would it feel to pledge this on an ongoing basis?

THE DIFFERENCE YOU MAKE

This money donated by YOU and your YOUniverse of inspired givers will help to financially support a minimum of 100 single moms between now and the end of the year. In addition, our team of mentors who volunteer their time will provide regular Life Mentoring to empower these moms with greater emotional resources.

We have a waiting list of single mothers in urgent need of help and now is your opportunity to support them. Here’s an example of how donations from people like you provided subsistence for one of our families. Joy faced with stage 4 Breast Cancer and her 8 year old daughter Holly were forced to live in a run-down trailer after Joy had to stop working due to the chemotherapy treatments. She approached Bouncing for Breast Cancer and thanks to people like you we were able to pay her rent for her new home, food and utility bills. In addition, Bouncing for Breast Cancer’s network of voluntary Life Mentors provided ongoing emotional support whilst she was undergoing regular chemotherapy and medical appointments. Joy felt that the steady phone conversations were extremely helpful for her and said:” I love my mentor and look forward to our calls each week. It really helps to find greater emotional resources so I can look after my daughter and get better.”

Thank you for playing your important part in the B4B YOU+2 Campaign! Your contribution will leave a legacy that will impact generations. What’s great about The YOUniversal Law of Compounding is that is also relates to the quality of moments we create for ourselves and others. It’s just takes YOU+2.

Love and blessings xp

2008-09-28T02:16:00.007+01:00

City to Bay fun run

Last weekend, Priscilla bounced through the finish line in Glenelg, Adelaide, dressed head to toe in her favourite bunny costume. Sweating but happy, she gave an interview to a local news station before hopping off for some well earned carrots.

Here's the finish line snap. Congratulations Priscilla, well done! You inspire me because you never tire to raise awareness and help the cause of Bouncing for Breast Cancer. Even if it means to wear fancy dress in the Spring heat of South Australia.

Simultaneously, in another part of the world: A herd of bouncers gather... but that's an entirely different story...

2008-02-28T22:24:00.007Z

B4B Upgrates

We have alot to update you on since December. Whilst you might not have seen much going on by way of the blog, like Santa's little elves, we've been busy behind the scenes to make it Christmas by providing essential gifts (food and shelter) for the single mums during treatment and recovery throughout the year.

I had in my schedule to update the blog. UPDATE....hmmm. Simply to update you wouldn't do justice all the gratitude we feel for accomplishing so much in a short period of time. Simply to update wouldn't reflect the amount of heart and love that goes on behind the scenes from the board and the people of the community. So from now on, we will give you upgrates instead of updates.

A summary of celebrations...

We are NOW OFFICIALLY as an Incorporated Association in South Australia!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HUGE THANKS to our lawyer, Christine Jankus, who volunteered her time, her talents and love for the cause.
Thanks also to Ray Wood of ANZ Castle Plaza for his help in setting up our non profit business account.
Thanks to Mark Craig, Head Mentor and Steering Committee member for his ongoing support from the very beginning...2 years ago!
Thanks to Margaret Irving and Sue Jones to your time on the biz and development plans.
Thanks to Geeta and the B4B family around the world.
Thanks to the mentors that are coming on board to be Family mentors!
Thanks to my darling husband, Christoph for your love, support, vision, talents, flexibility, mentoring, bouncing, patience and commitment to helping me help others in the world in similar situations Kathleen found herself in 2 years ago.
Thanks to Kathleen for continuing her sisterly support for the cause and mostly, for continuing to look after herself into full recovery.
Thanks to Helen Zander for your book idea, inspired by the blog of the first 100 day campaign for Kathleen. Stay tuned...it will be published in the near future! More on that later.
Thanks to all who have donated to the cause, by way of bouncing, money or talents. (ANZ BLUE WEEK success to be updated later).
Because of all this and more, INSPIRES ME and keeps me growing and moving b4b forward. I am committed to this for the rest of MY LIFE. It's a legacy that I've chosen....or it's chosen me.
Also, we are grateful to be in a position to now help more single mums that need our help. Justina, is a recent mum we met. She is a beautiful soul and I've asked her to share her journey with us on the blog, whilst she gets her website together....Below is in an introduction to Justina and her journey...

GRATEFUL - by Justina Colon (one of our mums)

Not many people can find a reason to be grateful for cancer. Not many people are diagnosed at the age of 28 with stage I invasive ducal carcinoma. And then are re-diagnosed at 31 with stage IV metastasized breast cancer. I am all of them. I am also a mom to a beautiful 8 year old daughter. Most importantly, I am a survivor…regardless of the statistics.

I am now 33 and I live with tumors throughout my skeleton system and a nice sized one in my liver. I go for chemotherapy once a week. It’s a 132 mile roundtrip for me, but I find something new every time I make that drive. A house up on a hill hiding between the trees, a new car out of some high tech magazine, or just an interesting shaped cloud floating across the blue sky. This is all regardless of how miserable I feel or how badly my bones are aching. I have to because I am alive. I have a chance to appreciate those things even though I have no true understanding of why I have this disease.

Over the coarse of the two and a half years of dealing with this I went from a successful wife and mother with a promising bright career to leaving an abusive marriage, my daughter tightly in tow to a much better place…as she calls it, “Our happily ever after.” I went from making $40,000 a year to barely $11,000 and having to fight for my SSD benefits. I’ve now had to learn how to be humble and how to reach out for help. I have found my voice down inside of not only physical pain, but emotional pain that runs deeper than any abyss. I have also had to decide between groceries and the prescriptions that I need in order to just get out of bed on some days. I have had to decide between paying a bill or making sure that I have the gas money to get to my doctors appointments.

But I’m grateful. I no longer look at the trivial things in life and let them swiftly pass me by. I embrace them. I hold them close to me and inhale the aroma of another moment that thankfully I am here to have. And yes, the larger problems of life, like the bills, the buying of groceries, the prescriptions co-pays, and just being sick and tired of being sick and tired do hit me. They hit me like the ball a baseball player hits to get that game winning homerun. Those are the days I curl up and retreat. I wrap myself tightly in my favorite blanket and block out the world…once my little girl is off to school. And by that evening, desperate to be mom, desperate to be myself…I pull it all together.

So, I bake brownies or banana bread or these really tasty thumbprint cookies. Just a little something to remind my daughter how special she is to me. Also, to remind myself how I am blessed to have her, my only one, the only one I’ll ever have in my life. Just like seeing the sun reflecting off of the mountains in my back yard remind me that I am blessed with so many things. Things that I should and am grateful for.

This would not be my tale if it wasn’t for the cancer. I learned of cancer and the evil ways of it at only 18 when my mom was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Then she had her own battle with breast cancer and a few others until it finally took her when I was 25. Too long before she could see the beautiful granddaughter I would have that every day reminds me of her. Two years after that, cancer once again came pounding on my door. My father was diagnosed with breast cancer as well. Then at the same time I was diagnosed, he was going in to have most of his stomach removed from metastasized cancer. I lost him shortly before my own re-diagnosis.
Having seen both parents through it, the ups and downs, the remissions and chemotherapy, I learned much. But not until my own cancer did my eyes truly open wide. Then with my re-diagnosis they have been glued open, taking it all in. I am going through indefinite chemotherapy now. There is no end date in site…but I’m okay with that on most days. I know my pain level has decreased, my markers have gone down, and I am here another day with my daughter and loved ones. I take in all of the good, all of the bad and all of it in between.

They say God only hands you what he thinks you can handle…I myself think that he thinks I have pretty darn big shoulders. My name is Justina Colon and I live with stage IV metastatic breast cancer. Just like the thousands of other women and men who also live with it, everyday. I am a survivor just like they are and I am grateful and appreciative for it all.

2007-12-03T22:46:00.000Z

Joe's Bounce-athon

We bounced over 4.5 marathons in 21 hours…

Family, friends, passers-by, the Red Bull gals and the community joined in on the Bouncing FUN! Better than expected turnout and we beat our bounce goal by nearly 100,000 bounces. Goal was 250,000 in 22 hours and we did 341,486 in 21 hours!!!! That equates to over 218 kilometres. That’s right, we bounced to PORT PIRIE!!!!

Saturday- 1st December

The girls took the lead…

Girls: 93,863 bounces
Boys: 79,078 bounces
Total: 172,941 bounces in 11 hours = 108.63 kilometres

Sunday – 2nd December

The boys made a comeback…

Girls: 75,547 bounces
Boys: 92,998 bounces
Total: 168,545 bounces in 10 hours = 109.84 kilometres

GRAND TOTALS FOR WEEKEND BOUNCE-ATHON

341,486 BOUNCES
218.47 kilometres

A million thanks to all who showed up, despite the heat, holiday shopping, christmas parties and weekend commitments. We appreciate that people with full schedules chose to be there. We are moved by your generosity of spirit and interest in our cause.

Total money raised is still being calculated. We pledged to bounce 250,000 times for $25,000 and the community of bouncers surpassed their goal, despite the 39 degrees on Saturday and showers on Sunday night. Indications suggest the event raised $2,000 through fantastic personal donations and we’re so grateful. Now we need more sponsors to step up and help us meet the $25,000 goal.

Sponsorship forms have been created for individuals who want to bounce at home on their rebounders or in their back yards. Contact us for your own B4B Kit to help us raise the funds for single mums with breast cancer this holiday season. info@bouncingforbreastcancer.org

Above all, we thank the Velardos family at Joe's Pizza Bar for being such fantastic hosts of this event. The remarkable story here is about the outreach this family owned business showed B4B. They presented the idea of a fundraising event on the day I decided I would raise the funds to register the company and have extra money in the account to help the women and kids we're here for. All I did was drive up front of their shop one Thursday evening a few weeks ago and order a pizza. Whilst I was waiting, they asked me what was the logo on my car (which had only been done 2 days before, thanks to Andy at Studio Signs - see previous blog). In a rare moment when I was not talkative, I very briefly described B4B. Everyone in the family listened attentively behind the counter. Within a few minutes, they offered - or rather told me they would host a fundraising event for B4B. Angelo, the son got the calendar out and said, "Which would you prefer, the 1st or 2nd weekend of December?". And the rest unfolded as if it was already planned. The event was organised in only two weeks.

Little did they know I was in tears the night before after an email with my solicitor where I had more questions than answers. Setting up a company, learning about corporate structuring, the ins and outs of tax implications, is difficult even for me at times. Yet, I am committed to find the way, because I am driven with such purpose. I learned through my sister's experience with breast cancer, that single mums have a very unique and overwhelming sense of financial and emotional challenges they face when undergoing treatment and recovery of breast cancer.

When reviewing the videos of the event early yesterday morning, I noticed one small clip made of our living room on 4th November after a series of meetings we had over the weekend. The living room was dimly lit and Christoph was filming whilst I was on the phone. I tuned into the conversation I was having and the clip ended with me holding something in my hand...

...Then it came to me. It was 9:30pm and we were too tired to cook, so I dug out a new menu we found in our letter box. It was from Joe's Pizza Bar.

Sitting on the sofa in a post-bounce daze, I thought to myself how random it was that we had a recording of the first contact with this business. However, what was an interesting twist of fate was that the next clip that followed on our video camera is the Bounce-athon at Joe's Pizza Bar only 4 weeks later.

This is one of many examples in my life how life works in wonderful and magical ways, even though we don't see it. It's reassuring to say the least! Once a decision is made, events are put action and the doors of opportunity open up. The right people always show up at the right time. There are always answers to our prayers.

Our heartfelt gratitude to the Velardos family - Joe, Paula, Angelo, Anthony, Lucy, Holly, Josey, Isabelle, and little Joseph. You were the answer to our prayers.

Blessings,

Priscilla and Christoph

On behalf of B4B family and single mums with breast cancer

2007-11-28T09:12:00.000Z

Joe’s Pizza Bar proudly hosts a FUNdraising event
for Bouncing for Breast Cancer!!!

The Event: 250,000 bounces for $25,000…on mini trampolines.

Joe's Pizza Bar is hosting a weekend long bounce-athon. The goal is to bounce 250,000 times on mini tramps over the weekend to raise $25,000. Money raised will help go towards basic household costs for single mums with breast cancer.

We'll have two teams - the boys vs. the girls. Pedometers will keep track of hourly updates. Joe's Pizza Bar have even created a special menu for the event where more proceeds will go to the cause. Plus, companies are being invited to take part in donation collecting and pizza specials for their staff on 30th November 2007 during lunchtime. To join in the team spirit, call Joe’s Pizza bar for more info.

When: 1st & 2nd December
11:30am – 10:30pm

Where: Joes Pizza Bar
415 Henley Beach Road
Brooklyn Park

What started as a personal appeal has now grown into an international mission. It began when Priscilla Bokhara pledged to bounce 10,000 times a day on a mini-trampoline, for 100 days, to raise US$10,000 to financially support her sister Kathleen, a single mother of two with breast cancer. International media and public support for the world tour appeal was so great that a team of dynamic leaders are now committed to help other single mothers, faced with these circumstances. To learn more about the story and to donate, we invite you to visit our site: www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org

We're ready to register the company officially in Adelaide as a non profit organisation and are now fundraising to cover set up costs and raise money for single mums undergoing treatment and recovery from breast cancer who need help to cover basic household costs.

A big heartfelt thanks to the following companies and individuals for supporting our mission and making this event possible.

Joes Pizza Bar
Studio Signs
Omikron
Christine Jankus, Solicitor

Call Joe’s for the best pizza in town, feeling great knowing your money is going to this worthy cause. 8443 4488 or 8443 4930

Come join us in the bouncing FUN, face painting for kids, the marathon Pizza Party and Gelatis to keep you cool!

LIFE IS WORTH BOUNCING FOR!

2007-11-13T02:00:00.000Z

B4Bmobile

Thanks to Andy at Studio Signs and Greg Smith of BEA Motors in Adelaide, we have our own branded advertisement on wheels. You guys are gems!!!

The inspiration behind this b4b idea...

On National Breast Cancer Day in Oz, Helen and I took Bart (my Smart Car, a.k.a FUN bubble) through the adventure finding a place to bounce in the rain. What's fab about this little pocket sized auto is that you can fit into any space. PLUS, two folding trampolines fit perfectly in the boot - just as if it was made for B4B.

So I decided to offer up Bart for some advertising for B4B. The first person I called was my friend Greg, as he has looked after me so well since I bought my car. He's one of those guys that makes everything all right. His reassuring, warm and friendly nature is like a guardian angel. Yes, that's Greg alright. He promptly referred me to his buddy, Andy at Studio Signs.

Andy loved the idea and was keen to sponsor us for the decalling. He took all the measurements and we spent a couple weeks getting the artwork just right.

I went in for the 'dressing' yesterday. I have never seen anything so 'cute'. It's just so perfect. Mama Bounce is very proud indeed of our new addition to the family.

Think of the places this campaign will go now?

Above all, I am proud to know these gentlemen, Andy and Greg. They have such huge hearts and are such incredible examples of greatness in this world.

If you live in the Adelaide and need and signage for cars, business, or advertising - give Andy a ring.

e: ab@studiosigns.com.au

t: 0413 317 758

2007-10-31T07:09:00.000Z

7 Sisters Story Exhibition - October 2008

Last year I visited the Flinders Ranges with my mom during a mother daughter bonding trip (turned intoThelma and Louise as we sung Tina Turner, Pink and Whitney Houston at the top of our lungs).

We had the most remarkable time and met new friends. Two in particular, another mother and daughter, Regina and Juanella Mackenie. They founded Yarta Arts, a contemporary Aboriginal Art foundation that exhibits its collections during the Brush with Arts Festival in the Flinders Ranges.

During our conversations, the topic of B4B and the Bush Bounce came up (see October 9th 2006 Blog). They were so touched that they offered to make a painting of the dreamtime 7 Sisters Story for B4B so that we can sell and use the proceeds for the cause.

What followed, was one of those magical moments of the B4B journey. When 4 women - mothers and daugthers- come together and share there dreams.

Storytelling is a large part of indigenous cultures and in the Aboriginal Culture, the 7 Sisters story is a famous one. Regina told us that cultures around the world also tell this same story. Then she suggested, "Wouldn't it be great to do an exhibition showing an interpretation of the 7 Sisters Story from different countries? All the proceeds could go to B4B. Afterall, the 7 Sisters could be the families that these single moms and their kids don't have."

This was a WOW moment that left all of us imagining what it would be like.

One year from the day we met, Regina, Juanella, my mother and I am proud to announce that B4B will be hosting the 7 Sisters Story Exhibition during National Breast Cancer month, October 2008. It will be held in Port Augusta, which is Cultural Centre for Arts next year.

Venue:

Fountain Gallery
43 Flinders Terrace
Port Augusta SA 5700

Official opening 9 October at 6 PM

Exhibition Summary

This unique intercultural exhibition is a collection of the 7 Sisters Stories interpreted from artists around the world. You will find examples of artists’ work through paintings, photography, sculpture, music and mixed media. The local Aboriginal people of Port Augusta say this is where the 7 Sisters gather. Throughout October 2008, the 7 Sisters unite to raise breast cancer awareness and support for the sisters of the world. 100% of the proceeds will go to Bouncing for Breast Cancer and national breast cancer organisations.

Many thanks to Sam Yates at Arts SA, who was open to hear about our idea and totally supported us to bringing this into fruition. We look forward to working with you and Katinka!

Mostly, my love and admiration goes to Regina McKenzie - a soul sister, who has come forward to share one of her dreams. Only during our meeting a week ago, did she say that this wonderful idea is one that she has been wanting to do for many years . She became discouraged over time because when she shared her dream, others couldn't appreciate it. They didn't believe it could happen or she could do it. What I appreciate most about Regina is that she never gives up and she continues to find a way to love those who might not see her vision. She continues to hold onto her dream until she finds the person who believes in her...or they find her first. For me, this is a dream come true to hold an event for B4B and link it to international awareness. Through arts or bouncing, it's all about sisterhood and getting the support out there for women who need it.

On our way home after the meeting, Christoph joked, "Don't ever tell Priscilla one of your dreams..."

What's the point of living if you can't turn your dreams into reality, I say.

a day full of dreams to you!

px

2007-10-30T06:55:00.000Z

Kelly Noble

I mentioned Kelly Noble, Communication Executive of SKY CITY Adelaide was a huge help to us last week during our National Breast Cancer Day Bounce. She also happens to be a fantastic woman who came to Adelaide 5 years ago and fell in love with this city. She loves to promote all thefabulous things that are happening here whether is events, social, fashion, causes or industry. Check out http://www.glamadelaide.com/. Plus she gave me lots of great tips for us using Youtube, My Space page, and Facebook - all interlinked. Check it out for what's possible with 21st century communications! Thanks Kelly and we'll continue to spread the word.

Also, through Kelly, I met Ji Wallace - Silver medalist in the Sydney Olympics for....get this... Trampoline. Ji equally has great energy and really wants to support our cause, along with the national team. Fate would have it that the National Team trains 15 minutes from my house. What a world, eh? We've since met to discuss an idea which was a project I've been waiting to release. It was intended for London, but why not do it in the great City of Adelaide?

Ji and the team are in Canada for qualifiers to Beijing. Fly High Ji !!

big bouncing love to all
xp

2007-10-29T05:58:00.000Z

WHEN IT RAINS, IT SOARS

When Monday 22nd October rolled around, I awoke to the sound of raindrops gently humming to my soul. I peered out the window to see grey clouds, grey skies and greyness of a cacoon all around. So tempting was it to go back into the warmness of my duvet that touched the dreams from the night before. I awaken to this day in slow motion, acutely aware of my surroundings, my breath, the stillness within. I was recovering from a 36 hour marathon that included a 13,000 bounce at Western hospital, followed by a 10-hour round trip journey into the Outback (38 degrees and dust stroms), a 5 hour meeting to plan out a truly beautiful event B4B is hosting during October 2008. And if that wasn't exciting enough - a haunted hotel room in the Outback definately rounded out the adventure! Whilst I was tremendously relieved the learn that it wasn't actually our hotel room that was haunted, but the one across the courtyard, I still couldn't sleep. Probably had something to do with moths the size of bats that flew around our heads, and the sudden power loss that stopped the ceiling fan from circulating the desert heat.

In any case, this Monday morning moment was mine to bathe in.

Then it the reality of the day struck me like a sudden gust of wind. Today was National Breast Cancer Day, and I pledged to bounce 40,000 times to show support for ALL WOMEN and families who have been affected by breast cancer. For a second, I thought to myself , "How will I go from being in this closet-introverted space at this very moment, to a highly energised, bouncing women facing hundreds of passersby and media in the matter of a few hours?"

The answer - MY PURPOSE!

I realised recently that I haven't been spontaneous, thanks to Juanella, a 17 year old friend who pointed this out to me in the direct birthrighted way teenagers do. Over the past few months, whilst working behind the scenes of B4B, some of the magic and miracles of the intial B4B campaign (or rather me) were replaced with protocal, creating guidelines, and setting up the infrastructure. As vitally important as it is to build on a solid foundation that enables us to serve a wider group of single moms in need and be accountable as an organisation, I admit, that I began taking life (or myself) too seriously and worrying about how things weren't all in place. Then I realised, that LIVING is what happens when things are not in place. The only thing that needs to be in place is my heart.

There were months that passed in silence during our move to Australia because I became afraid of what to share about B4B as I hadn't yet figured out the the answers. But did I know the questions, either? Experts were advising me how difficult this would be and said I needed to be prepared for every 'what if' scenario. And to have every answer prepared for the media. Oh and to watch out for other national or bigger charities who might eat us up or steal our great ideas. It became overwhelming and frankly "going by the book" meant I momentarily lost touch with the heart of this campaign. More importantly, I learned that going by someone else's book, I lost connection with my heart's purpose: to improve the quality of life for others. From now on, the only book I go by is the one I write. My heart, energy and focus will be to continue to trust what we do know, the people who support what we're doing and build from there. We have allowed room for B4B to be spontaneous AND have a healthy, accountable infrastructure. We will work alongside national organisations, because I believe there is no competition when it comes to providing support and love to those affected by breast cancer AND there is power in unity. There is power in NOW!

So...I jumped out of bed and started thinking about Plan B. The original plan was to bounce at Victoria Square, one of Adelaide's famous landmarks. However, on this particular day, it would be a very soggy and rather uninspiring occasion if the rain persists (and it was forecasted to). In my life and especially during B4B, I have found plan B's are even better (of course they would because Bounce begins with the letter B - as well as Boobs and Babies). Plan B means we can be inventive, use our intuition and think on our feet. Plan B's contain the magic and in our case, are totally outside the comfort zone!!!!

Soon to arrive at my house was Helen Zander, a FUNtastic woman, my right hand and the B4B administrator. We packed the car with the mini-tramp and started brainstorming alternatives. I promised Helen, that even though I couldn't tell her in advance the how, the when and the where of Plan B - I could tell her with certainty, that it will be even better than we had planned, because I knew the WHY. I told her that we would meet the right person and the right moment and the right place. AND I WOULD KNOW. When our heart is open and connected to our purpose, we always know.

Helen came up with the idea of going to the Central Train Station. My nose twitched and I knew instinctively this was the direction to head towards. We arrived at 10am and quickly did a recky inside the station. Nope, this was not the place - however just outside the station, there was covered area onlooking North Terrace with a gazillion passersby.

Standing on the pavement, next to a large glass entrance door along North Terrace was a man with a smile. His name was Mark Weinert and we had something in common. He too was showing support for Breast Cancer Awareness, by wearing a pink ribbon. PLAN B was here!!! Turns out he works for security for SKY CITY Adelaide and once he heard about our bouncing idea in support for Breast Cancer Day, he sent me to speak to Mark, Head of Security and a fantastic lady, Kelly Noble -Communications Executive for Sky City (more on Kelly in the next blog). They too were wearing pink ribbons - in fact, all the staff in SKY CITY Adelaide did too. Mark and Kelly, enthusiastically supported our request to bounce in front of their building. Additionally, they also offered to provide us drinks and nibbles to keep our energy up. This was totally amazing. A million thanks goes to Mark, Kelly and SKYCITY ADELAIDE for being such generous and friendly hosts for the National Breast Cancer Pink Ribbon Day Bounce http://www.skycityadelaide.com.au/.

I started bouncing at 10:50am, and in less than one hour National TV News Channel 7 and two Newspapers arrived. It was as if all fell into place like it was supposed to happen that way. But it was supposed to happen that way... it's how I planned it on Friday. I decided this is how it would be. And so it was, despite the rain and change of venue. I learned that if you decide on a clear outcome that's linked to a big enough purpose, that no matter what - you'll reach the outcome. The rain didn't stop us, rather it lead us to something that was even better. We met new friends, and bounced to show our national support for all women and families affected by breast cancer. It was also a proud day for B4B as we launched our presence in Australia to support single mums and their young kids who are suffering from this disease and don't know where to go or the answers to their challenges. Our aim is for them to know when they ask a friend, a nurse, a doctor, or support group "Who can help me support my kids when I'm going through surgery and recovery and cannot work?" The answer will be...Bouncing for Breast Cancer.

Single mums we bounced for...

Tamy is undergoing chemotherapy and suffering the nasty side effects, yet forces herself to go to work to support her kids. Know that support is here for you. Also we recently heard about a Danish mom, who has very young children, is self employed as a landscape gardener and lives in the rural areas of South Australia. She has no family here, no private medical and struggles to get to the hospital for treatment. Pray for them and donate - they need our help.

In closing, I share with you a poem that came into my life when I was looking for an answer. This poem has been an inspiration to me during a few occasions when I thought I was lost, confused or uncertain about my path. It taught me patience and to appreciate that where we are, is the right place at that moment. It taught me that not having it all figured out just means we're learning. Or it means we're open to new ideas and ready to try something new. Or it means to trust the answers will come. When Helen asked me about B4B, "How did you get this far?", I replied in a light-hearted and confident way, "I make it up as I go along". She thought I was joking, but I wasn't. Afterall, isn't this what we're all doing in this life?

I beg you…to have patience with everything unresolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves as if they were locked rooms or books written in a foreign language. Don’t search for the answers, which could not be given to you now, because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps then, someday far in the future, you will gradually, without even noticing it, live you way in to the answer…

- By Rainer Maria Rilke

Here's to living our way into the answers.
love xp

2007-10-26T16:04:00.000+01:00

B4B is on a roll!!!

October has been a spectacular month as B4B has made progress on all fronts and hit the headlines again to show our support for single mums wth breast cancer. There's so much to share - so many people to thank- and this will be done in the coming blogs as it's after 1am...

Saturday 20th October - B4B was invited to Western Hospital at their Breast Cancer Awareness event thanks to Sally Neville in Events, and Sue Spencer Lead Breast Cancer Nurse. We bounced 13,000 times, each bounce represented each women diagnosed with breast Cancer in Australia (yearly estimated 13,000)

Monday 22nd October - New b4b dream team member, Helen Zander and I rocked up to SkyCity Adelaide to bounce over 40,000 times in support of all women and families affected by breast cancer. IN fact, we ended up bouncing 42, 415 times and we were featured in the news on Channel 7, in the pages of the Advertiser.

On Tuesday morning, the roaving reporter, Tim Noonan of ABC radio came out to Grange Jetty for a bounce. The antenna couldn't get reception so it was first to do a carpark bounce. Never a dull moment...

More good news came in this week that we're confirmed for an event in Port Augusta during Breast Cancer Month, 2008 and another fundraising event in February. I'll blog about this separately.

THE GREATEST NEWS OF ALL.... thanks to Robert Jones in Melbourne - another supporter of our mission, has kindly offered his talents to update our website. Yes, that's right - the new site is here. Come check it out http://www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org/. THANKS ROBERT!!

Must hit the pillow now. However, before I retire, on behalf of B4B we're in spirit in the UK today in honour of Natinoal Breast Cancer Day.

Sweet dreams, God's blessings and happy bouncing...

xpriscilla

2007-10-01T00:09:00.000+01:00

To our Sisters - Honoring Breast Cancer Month

Throughout the month of October, we'll be honouring our Sisters - the many single mom's and other women affected by breast cancer.

I had planned to share another story for this 1st day - however, as gorgeous fate would have it, my sister Kathleen (for whom this campaign was originally created), sent me an email with a story about Sisters. It was more than touching - it really resonated with me on a cellular level about the love us Sisters have for one another and the lengths we will go for one another. This is what about what B4B is about. A Powerful Sisterhood...

"A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her Mother. As they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter.

Don't forget your Sisters," she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom ofher glass. "They'll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them."

"Remember that 'Sisters' means ALL the women... your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other women relatives too. "You'll need other women. Women always do."

What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman thought. Haven't I just gotten married? Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grown up! Surely my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!'

But she listened to her Mother. She kept contact with her Sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her Mom really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, Sisters are the mainstays of her life.

After more than 50 years of living in this world, here is what I've learned:

THIS SAYS IT ALL:
Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.

BUT.........Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A girlfriend is never farther away than needing her can reach. When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end. Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you...Or come in and carry you out.

Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family, all bless our life!The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I.

When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other.Every day, we need each other still. Pass this on to all the women who help make your life meaningful I just did.

To the single mom's affected by breast cancer, to your children and families - You make our lives more meaningful.

With love and blessings
priscilla, kathleen, margaret, susan, geeta & the b4b family and sponsors

2007-08-13T05:28:00.000+01:00

We Walk the Same Line

After unpacking moving boxes recently, I was reunited with one of my favorite CD's by Everything But the Girl. Bouncing away on my rebounder, I played it over and over like a teenage groupie.

I was particularly inspired by one of the songs written by Tracey Thorn. It put into music what I have felt for Kathleen during her treatment and recovery from breast cancer.

We Walk the Same Line

If you lose your faith, babe, you can have mine,
and if you’re lost I’m right behind, cause we walk the same line.

Now I don’t have to tell you how slow the night can go,
I know you’ve watched for the light.
And I bet you could tell me how slowly four follows three,
and you’re most forlorn just before dawn.

So if you lose your faith, babe, you can have mine,
and if you’re lost I’m right behind, cause we walk the same line.

And I don’t need reminding how loud the phone can ring
when you’re waiting for news. And that big old moon lights every corner of the room.
Your back aches from lying and your head aches from crying.

So if you lose your faith, babe, you can have mine,
and if you’re lost I’m right behind, cause we walk the same line.

And if these troubles should vanish like the rain at midday,
well I’ll have no doubt there’ll be more. And we can’t run and we can’t cheat,
cause baby when we meet what we’re afraid of, we find out what we’re made of.

So if you lose your faith, babe, you can have mine,
and if you’re lost I’m right behind, cause we walk the same line.

To the other single mums in the world affected by breast cancer:
When you're lost, we're right beside, cause we walk the same line with you.

B4Bx

2007-08-10T11:48:00.000+01:00

Knock Knock

I’d like to dedicate this to my beautiful sister, Kathleen.

Kathleen, out of respect for your wishes, I remained discreet concerning the events in recent months. I thank you for your willingness to share your experience – one that so many other single mums with cancer and people around the world face on a daily basis.

As I sit in a beachside café, looking over the waters, I reflect upon a book I recently read by Richard Bach, Running from Safety. It challenged my level of thinking. What I aspire to in life is not safety; it’s growth. I attach myself to situations in life until I get the lesson, even when the lesson is more important that freedom itself. Once the lesson is learned, the door to freedom magically opens. The truth that resonates in our hearts will set us free.

As I write, I religiously select the words and honour their spirit while releasing them onto the page. Only until recently did I realise how important writing the blog last year was in coping with my emotions surrounding Kathleen’s breast cancer. It was a healing way for overcoming my pain. It was a way to relate to others.

Sometimes when everything seems to be moving in the right direction suddenly, events in life nudge us in an alarming way. Catch us off guard. Stop us in our tracks.

Reality knocks on our door. Who could it be? What could it be? Why now? I’m busy with life! Do we open it or don’t we? The knock continues…We have no choice. Ignoring it won’t make it go away. We must open the door and face whatever is behind it. Brace ourselves for what’s about to enter our life.

Knock knock

In end of June, nearly one year since the 100th day of the original B4B campaign for my sister Kathleen, I learned that she found another lump in her breast. The same breast she had the mastectomy. More concerning for her and her doctors, was the itching she experienced. The same symptoms she had when the first cancerous lump was discovered. How could this be? Her breast had been removed and reconstructed. She is IN RECOVERY, right?

This was a knock on my reality. I awakened to familiar emotions, I thought I had left long behind. This was my sister whom I love dearly and would do anything for. Within seconds learning about this new lump, my heart sunk. Yet, I had to abandon my own fear for a higher belief. Fear was a luxury I could not afford. If I did, where would that leave Kathleen? Instead, I had to invest in something truly precious: Faith.

Without hesitation, I opened the door and embraced the news, faithfully. “What else could this itching or lump in her breast represent?” I asked myself. “Ok Priscilla, think of at least 25 different meanings that are more empowering than the return of cancer. And when you get to 25, keep on going.” I intuitively felt in my heart this wasn’t cancer. This was something else and it would reveal itself in time.

Kathleen shared this news only with me and one of her closest friends. She didn’t want to raise the alarm bells and cause worry to her mom, our dad or her brave-hearted young daughters. She didn’t want a disruption in her life now that’s she’s found her new normal and happiness again. She wanted to believe this cancer story was behind her for good!

A doctor recommended an MRI scan. It was scheduled for 28th June. “Honey, how are you handling this?” I asked. “I get poked and prodded all the time”, she said. “I’ve taken so many tests that I don’t get emotional about it. I deal with the facts. Priscilla, I’m okay with this.”

Wow, I admired how positive she was. But when I mirrored her optimism by sharing the probability that it could be something else, the protective wall crumbled around her heart to reveal what she was really feeling: “It’s easy for you from where you’re standing. But you’re not going through it, Priscilla. It’s tough, you know. It’s like an emotional rollercoaster. The ups and downs are a struggle sometimes.”

Whoa…where did this come from? I was confused by the mixed signals.

She’s right, though. I admit my optimism probably stung like salts to an open wound. I was speaking out of turn and only when I stepped in her shoes did I get it. The easiest way for her to cope was to deal with the facts. Acknowledging emotions at this stage was potentially overwhelming for her. She had just opened the door and was getting acquainted with the new reality.

Because the symptoms she experienced were similar to those in the past, doctors were concerned the cancer had reappeared. Naturally, it required further investigation to rule things out. However, did the doctors need to share their concern with my sister before they knew the facts? With all due respect to their experience, the past does not necessarily equal the reality of the present. It was entirely possible that there were other explanations for her symptoms.

June 28th was a day filled with irony. Gazing out into the rising sun as I flew to Melbourne (Australia) for a B4B steering committee meeting, my thoughts turned to Kathleen. She was on the other side of the world having her MRI scan in Melbourne (Florida). How strange it felt to further develop the B4B infrastructure to help other single moms with breast cancer, when my sister was uncertain about her own recovery. My thoughts were with her. My heart was with her. Every ounce of my faith was with her.

Two weeks later, the MRI results gave the all-clear, which confirmed what I already believed to be true!!!! However, before loosening the cork to the champagne bottle, her breast surgeon (another doctor) told Kathleen that the results weren’t reliable in her case because film (x-rays) did not initially show any evidence of cancer.

This was unexpected and my heart sank again. It took me a while until I could channel my energies on the probability that all was good and this was simply a process of elimination. I kept my thoughts to myself, focusing on her needs of support.

At this point, she decided to tell her mom and eldest daughter, but chose not to tell her other child. Sticking to the facts. Riding the rollercoaster, from time to time. Ups & downs. More waiting. Patiently.

The day came for Kathleen and her mom to make the long drive to Moffitt Cancer Centre in Tampa to see her doctor. He needed to examine the lump.

Words cannot express the gratitude I felt when she told me the news that the lump was not cancerous. She was so overjoyed and relieved and I was for her. She explained that it’s a fluid pocket created from the mastectomy. It’s not within the breast, rather located in the upper abdomen close to the breast. They don’t need to operate. They will monitor and drain the fluid if it doesn’t do so naturally.

The news cascaded over me like a long-awaited rain after a summer draught. Even though I believed in my heart everything would be fine, I was overcome with emotions too great to hide. The moment came when I finally shared with Kathleen that I too had faced some challenges during this time. I asked her if I could write about it.

As the sun gradually descends into the ocean on the distant horizon, I ask myself this question:

What is the lesson I have learned?

The only way to truly practice our faith is when it’s tested. When we’re willing to meet what we’re afraid of, we find out what we’re made of: a greatness beyond ourselves.

With love, xp

2007-07-23T10:37:00.000+01:00

Free Hug Campaign

an amazing hug campaign started last year that has inspired millions around the world on youtube. if you haven't seen it yet - or want to be reminded how it's growing even today -click on hug campaign link above and feel how embracing it is :). Alernatively, check out their website
http://www.freehugscampaign.org/

watch how the power of a hug brings people together for a greater good

to all the single mums with breast cancer, their kids and families... we BIG HUG you!

b4b xo

2007-07-02T08:21:00.000+01:00

B4B Steering Committee ROCKS!!!

The steering committee team met for the first time in Melbourne, Australia.

Firstly, BIG thanks to our friend and longtime B4B supporter, Tanya Schiffter for allowing us to use her offfices at CapGemini!

I am proud to welcome two fantastic ladies to the B4B core steering team: Margaret Irving (US) and Susan Jones (Australia).

WE THANK YOU -FOR YOUR TIME, HEART AND COMMITMENT.

Margaret is an extraordinary woman whose mission in life is to help people raise their energy levels to experience their dreams. She does this fantastically as a specialist in reboundology (yes, such a name exists), in addition to contributing to other life-transforming pursuits. Her talent and experience in rebounding, building corporate infrastructure, personal development, and wellness is greatly appreciated and respected.

Sue Jones is a loving wife, mother, enterpreneur and an aspiring author in the area of health & vitality. She is passionate about turning health challenges into transformational examples of vitality and happiness. She has a keen interest in the development and sustainability of non-profit organisations. As an excellant facilator, she knows how help us turn the heart of what we do - into vision, strategy AND results for moms & their kids throughout the world.

We celebrate our meeting highlights:

Everyone was there to serve and we were connected to something much bigger than ourselves.
Did well at creating, building on and connecting in our team relationships
Fantastic ideas were born to support the cause even more moving forward
Very fluid energy
We understood our higher purpose – 360 degrees
We all have love, mindset, competencies and experience to contribute to this worthy cause
It was FUN and real – feminine, magical, creative

An exciting development is the 360 approach we'll be taking in the area of emotional and physical wellbeing for single mums with breast cancer, their kids and even relatives. This will include finanical support and other key resources for them. Whilst this has been a component of B4B in the past, the scope just became more powerful and designed to last.

The most inspirational part of this meeting was getting to know these women at the level of the heart. I was more than moved by their mission in life to help others. Equally enchanting, was the coincidences (or not) that surrounded us during our time in Melbourne. It turns out Tanya and Sue went to school together over 20 years ago and we know alot of the same people. If you are familiar with 6 degrees of separation...we represent more like 2 degrees!

This was a gentle life reminder that we are in the right place , as the right people show up just at the right time.

Before powering down my laptop, I looked around the room to see walls of diagrams, words, phrases and action plans. I was proud and grateful to see more evidence of the B4B dream come true. I realised it's not just my dream anymore... it's become OUR dream.

As I headed into the Melbourne suburbs on the train, I looked out into the distant horizon and I quietly remembered the journey here... a former distant horizon. I gave thanks to all those people, especially Kathleen, Christoph, Shona, Sandra, Laura and our supporters who inspire us to continue. I caught my reflection in the window...How many blinks did it take to realise this dream?

YOUR DREAMS ARE JUST A BLINK AWAY...
love from the B4B Team x

2007-06-25T08:55:00.000+01:00

A Single Mum needs your help!!

I had a lengthy conversation with a single mum, who asked to be called "Laura". She is desperate for help.

We offered her emotional support until we would have the funding to help her financially. But she gratefully declined at the time.

This was a BIG learning for us and Christoph made a key distinction. When we helped Kathleen, we addressed her financial worries FIRST, which put her mind at ease, enabled her to relax more and focus on her healing. This opened her to the emotional support, knowing she could continue to feed and shelter her kids.

So, what's Laura's story?

Imagine you are a healthy, happily married mother with three beautiful young children. You are proud of your personal accomplishments, including a Masters Degree. You live a modest and financially responsible life.

Suddenly, the rug is pulled from underneath your feet without warning!

In the span of 5 years, you've been diagnosed with breast cancer, had a double mastectomy, received a full round of chemotherapy, over 45 radiation treatments, a hysterectomy, and were continuously weak from all the post cancer medication.

And it doesn't stop here... During this time, you suffered two car accidents, a painful divorce, you were a Hurricane Catrina victim in Louisiana (you had to move away from your kids to another state for several months to continue medical treatment), you lost your job (including medical benefits) as a result of these circumstances and accrued nearly US$50,000 of debt.

However, the bright side is that you were one of the lucky ones who found a job again after it was safe to move back into Louisiana. And being lucky means you are earning almost US$20,000 a year (despite the masters degree).

The most painful result is that your kids can only live with you 40% of the time because you now live in a bedsit (studio apartment) and work full time. Including your daily commute to work you are away from home over 60 hours per week. This means you're rarely home and when you are, you need to sleep and continue to heal. You couldn't even afford a babysitter for your kids if they lived with you.

You don't have enough money to cover basic household and food expenses - let alone to begin paying back the financial obligations you've accrued in recent years. And when you have your kids to stay, they all sleep in the bed and you sleep on the floor.

As much as you try to be positive, the prevailing worry is "Am I going to live long enough to see my kids turn 18?" and "Will my breast cancer come back even though I've taken all measures to prevent that?"

All you want to do is to be the loving, healthy and happy mother you were before - who nurtures and protects her children as moms instinctively do.

What meaning would you give this? How would you feel if your life, happiness, identity, children and well being were taken away from you and you were living on the edge physically, emotionally and financially? How could you see the positive in any of this?

Bouncing for Breast Cancer helps experience the positive in a seemingly impossible situation. Our mission grows out of a genuine love and caring for single mums whose diseases place their lives and their kids' lives precariously on the edge. Meeting them at that edge and gradually escorting them back to life and to their future, is the challenge and our call to action.

This single mom - OUR SISTER - is in need of YOUR HELP. Help us, help them and together we will sleep better tonight, knowing these moms and their kids are, too.

TO HELP LAURA, visit our website http://www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org/ and click on the donate button.

Thanks and God Bless

2007-06-22T08:39:00.000+01:00

From my sister, Kathleen.

I received an email today from Kathleen. She shared with me a true story - a thoughtful and inspiring reminder that we are indeed "all in this together"

A few years ago, there was a story on the front page story of the SF Chronicle, about a female humpback whale who had become entangled in a web of crab traps and lines.

She was weighted down by hundreds of pounds of traps that caused her to struggle to stay afloat. She also had hundreds of yards of line rope wrapped around her body, her tail, her torso, and a line even tugging in her mouth.

A fisherman spotted her just east of the Farralon Islands (outside the Golden Gate Bridge) and radioed an environmental group for help. Within a few hours, the rescue team arrived and determined that she was in such a state, that the only way to save her was to dive in and untangle her. A very dangerous proposition - One slap of the tail could kill a man. The rescue team worked for hours with curved knives and eventually freed her.

When she was free, the divers reported that she swam in what seemed like joyous circles. She then came back to each one of the team, one at a time, and nudged them, and pushed them gently around --- she thanked them. Some said it was the most beautiful experience of their lives.

The guy who cut the rope out of her mouth says her eye was following him the whole time, and he will never be the same.

May you, and all those you love, be so blessed and fortunate to be surrounded by people who will help you get untangled from the things that are binding you.

And, may you always know the joy of giving and receiving gratitude.

love, Kathleen and Priscilla

2007-06-10T07:12:00.000+01:00

B4B's Future is in your hands

I'm updating the blog with a few entries over June and into July. There's been a lot of cool stuff happening, heaps of learning and we want you to be up to speed...

I travelled from Australia to London in late May for meetings re: B4B. As such, I have spent the past two months sowing new seeds, watering them and being patient. As in life, these seeds grow roots beneath the earth, before breaking through to new ground. B4B has broken through to new ground!

Firstly, I must thank the dedicated team of supporters in London who have been patient with us in our growth and new season.

These are - Amanda Prosser (Public Zone), Geeta Tailor (Your Bloody Health), Pa Joof (Making it Happen Now), Heather Macrae (Venture Thinking), Callum Bridgeford (Energise for Life), Per Wimmer (Wimmer Space), Alistair Crooks (The Secret Combination), and friends and family.

I had a fruitful meeting with Paul Sacher of the MEND Programme (http://www.mendprogramme.org/) to understand how he started . He is a great guy who shows what's possible by helping children with obesity. He has successfully run the MEND programme as a social enterprise project for over 5 years.

This, in addition to other research, convinced us that the business form "social enterprise" is the way forward, and not becoming a charity. In addition, Gordon Brown likes social enterprises, too.

What is social enterprise?
Basically, it's a private company with social aims. B4B will run itself on a non profit basis, with all collected donations going to the cause (minus minimal admin costs). However, there may be a profit-making arm of the organisation which will feed its revenue to the cause as well -providing even greater financial help.

Why not a charity?
Bottom line is that whilst charities are very worthwhile, becoming one and maintaining its status requires lots of resources = time and money. We decided early on that the majority of our resources should be invested towards those who need it - not in administration, paperwork, salaries, i.e. high overhead costs.

Above all, we do not see ourselves in competition with the existing Breast Cancer charities. We understand the needs of a specific group - single mums with kids - and are offering financial, emotional and wellbeing support. As such, we may partner with those charities in raising awareness for both, emotional support and research for all those affected by breast cancer, not just single mums and their kids.

How can you help?
We need seed funding and a team in London to help moms that need support NOW because they are in desperate circumstances (see Laura's appeal). email us at info@bouncingforbreastcancer.org

Making this distiction towards our organisational form gave clarity and was the critical step in identifying how we actually structure ourselves and build a strategy to reach our outcome.

I boarded the plane exhausted - yet euphoric and satisfied that I acheived what I set out to do in 5 days. I've not had this clarity since the day I began this personal campaign for my sister in Feb 2006. This mission is the single most fulfilling and challenging thing I've done in my life and I am totally committed to the cause. It's one of the reasons why I get out of bed in the morning. I think of those moms who have first contacted us for help. They inspire me, along with Kathleen. I also honour those few single moms who have passed away in the meantime.

As we taxied down the runway for takeoff, tears of gratitude ran down my face. We are one step closer to helping moms with breast cancer and their kids.

Thank you, all for believing in us... for believing in them! What's most important is that the quality of these lives will be improved by removing the obstacles that cause emotional and financial distress so they can focus on healing, recovery and being a family.

with love, priscilla

2007-05-09T05:01:00.000+01:00

The Journey Starts Within

Throughout the B4B journey, I have collected stories of women we met along the way and the meaning they gave to their experience was incredible. Even my sister Kathleen, now understands that her breast cancer served a higher purpose.

Kathleen is feeling stronger and more vibrant with each new day - yipee!!!! The other day she said that she's ready to get more involved with building B4B in the US. We both knew this day would come along sooner or later when she had more energy. I was WOW'd that it was this soon!!!!

I asked what seems like an obvious question - yet it is an important one. And here's why....

When I asked Kathleen why she wanted to get involved, she said, "I want to give back to help single mums who have no one to support them. I am just now awakening to the power of my experience. Through your personal campaign for me, I now understand what it means to be truly loved and to how to RECEIVE that love. I never did this before."

This brought tears to my eyes. All of her life, she was a giver and couldn’t receive, because she didn’t love herself. She spent 47 years of her life not loving herself and now at 48 she knows self love. She experiences self love. She practices self love.

She said, "Priscilla, I now realise that the journey starts within. Thank you for giving me my life back."

Whilst I was profoundly touched by her words, I thought for a moment to myself. "It was not me to give her life back -she's always had it. She has just now awakened to another level of her soul."

Just imagine what loving herself will bring her for the rest of her life? Imagine what her kids will learn and how they will grow out of the gift of self love.

In fact, with this self love, she has the desire to do something even more fulfilling with her life. Recently she way laying sleepless in bed flicking through possibilites in her mind, like pages in a dream magazine. She thought of returning to school to complete her degree. The next morning she woke up and said, "I love who I am! I don’t need a degree – I can do anything I want! I CAN make a difference, because I HAVE made a difference so many times before in my life."

And she has and she can! She has made a difference in my life -was a loving big sister to me when I was a little girl with curly golden locks. She comforted me when I was sad, she played and laughed with me (alot), she hugged me and loved me unconditionally. Even today, through her experience, I have found an even greater purpose to my life.

Kathleen has volunteered for so many charity, church events and community organisations. She is a leader and a connector. She is a great mom, sister and daughter. And she does this out of love. Her journey now continues into a compelling future filled with even more love and possibility - for she knows how to receive it from herself and from others. What a blessing.

I am so proud of Kathleen and the many other women who have come out the other side of breast cancer with a more empowering meaning and purpose to their lives. You inspire me and the rest of the world.

with love and honour to you all!
priscilla x

2007-04-21T23:20:00.001+01:00

Happy New Beginnings Day

Happy and warm greetings to you. It's a pleasure to be blogging again and I want to thank you for your patience over the past few months. Bouncing for Breast Cancer has been working behind the scenes to develop our foundation and exciting path forward to help single mothers affected by breast cancer. Additionally, I have moved my home to Australia with my husband, so it's been a further growth for me on how to bring this mission forward.

Truth is, to go from a personal campaign to a larger organisation requires a new strategy. I have never done anything like this before, so I just need time to find the right people to advise us. This meant that we needed to really assess our needs, such as infrastructure, roles, steering committee, criteria for funding, and much more than I could have imagined. Futhermore, we didn't want to set up just another charity. We wanted to really understand the needs of single mums that we intend to help. Whilst one of our functions is to provide financial support, our heart mission is to provide outstanding emotional support and share useful resources.

Today, we celebrate our new path. Over the next 12 months, we will be launching our dream teams in the UK, America and Austalia. Specifically, we commit:

spread further awareness of the unique situations faced by single mothers and their kids when going through treatment, recovery from breast cancer
host fun and exciting community bouncing events in local communities
raise funding for the cause
distribute our top quality personally branded trampolines
provide the emotional support to help single mums find an empowering meaning in their situation and most importantly, a compelling future for themselves and their children
share wellness information on nutrition and exercise.
and much more

I celebrate today even more because of the amazing support we've received so far from many people throught the world. Most importantly, I celebrate my sister Kathleen, for whom this personal campaign was originally founded.

For those who have been following the story, Kathleen is doing well in herself and her kids have been brilliant throughout all of this, receiving great marks at school. She is taking a course of Herceptin for a total of 12 months. In the meantime, she regaining her vitality each day. Finding her new normal has been a great learning for her and she is happy to be looking towards a bright future full of love, faith and gratitude.

There is so much we too have learned since our last blog in October and i will share those valuable gifts in the coming days.

with love and appreciation

priscilla

2006-10-05T07:24:00.000+01:00

B4B Hightlights

Hello again and sorry there's been no updates for about a week. Soo many exciting things are happening and it's finding time to keep you posted. Check back with us on the 9th October for the lastest and greatest:

B4B becomes unified to a greater cause with new logo
Adelaide bounce
Kathleen update - herceptin is proving the new challenge
Celebrating breast cancer awareness week
Aussie Outback Bounce
the Xfactor producer's fab involvement in London
championing the cause of Shona, another single mum in need of our help

...and more.

with blessings

2006-09-25T01:57:00.000+01:00

Our Mountain Awaits Us

Over the weekend, Christoph and I went cycling on a sunny and fresh morning before breakfast. Being a cycling enthusiast, he reminded me of his goal of riding up Mount Lofty before we leave Adelaide in October.

Now, I'm all up for challenges - however, when I first heard his idea a month or so ago, an image came to mind. It is after all MOUNT Lofty, as in ...nice steady incline over 20 miles to a hilly mountain range that culminates to a summit. Visions of me red faced, huffing and puffing, like scenes from The Little Engine That Could, playing over and over in my head. "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can!”.

Admittedly, over the past few weeks, I've been psyching myself up for it. Then, on Saturday morning, as we rode up a [gentle] incline in central Adelaide, I began doubting my abilities to take on Mount Lofty. In fact, instead of facing this graciously, I started hurling criticism at Christoph. I accused him of being irresponsible to cycle up a mountain without 'proper training' (whatever that means????). To his defense, he responded "but I've been cycling all my life". "Yeah, right", I snorted, "If that's the case why don't you just sign up for the Tour de France tomorrow?"

Now, it doesn't take brain surgery to figure out that my behavior was not only totally over-the-top, but what a bitch I was! It's no excuse to say that I hadn't had any breakfast - normally resulting in me being un peu fragile until I get something in my tummy. So, I had to pull up my big girl's pants and do the right thing... apologize.

What was about to transpire, was a profound breakthrough...

When we sat down for breakfast, I looked at Christoph sincerely and apologized for my rude behavior. It was so unfair of me to impose my insecurities onto him. If he was ready and felt certain of his abilities to conquer Mount Lofty, more power to him. Who was I to ridicule his aspirations? Frankly, just then did I recognize the 'smallishness' behavior I displayed moments earlier.

I told him, "Of course, we can cycle up Mount Lofty. After all, it's not about reaching the top, it's about...."

Christoph interrupted. He said, "It's about reaching the bottom. You can't reach the top of the mountain, without first reaching its bottom."

How true this is…

He turned to me and said in his wise and gentle way... "Priscilla, you can stand at the bottom of Mount Disappointment looking up - or you can start climbing Mount Remarkable."

All too often, we create targets that seem out of reach or might require lots of huffing and puffing to get there. We mustn't forget, that if we first see the mountain range in the distance and challenge ourselves to climb it - that's an achievement in itself.

If we go the distance to reach its bottom, then that too is a great achievement.

And if we start the ascent to the summit, at any point along the way - that too is an even greater achievement.

Our journey is the preparation for the mountain that awaits us.

Will it be Mount Disappointment or Mount Remarkable?

2006-09-22T03:19:00.000+01:00

HOT OFF THE PRESS...

Congratulations to Martha Miller and her team at Meredith for launching their Premier Issue of BEYOND. Martha used to be the Health Editor at Better Homes & Gardens and has a real 'get-up-and-go' mindset & passion about her current venture. She's a mom and seems to take life and her successes in stride, effortlessly. This lady is a natural talent and role model for many professional moms and women out there (including me).

I received a call from her within 2 hours of returning from my visit with Kathleen in June. She heard about our story and wanted to include it in this first issue. We are so grateful to sit within pages of such a special magazine, alongside other great stories and articles of incredible individuals. I believe in the value of this magazine and how it's purpose is to help those affected by breast cancer to LIVE and THRIVE afterwards with confidence and hope for the future. I urge all of you in the USA to go to your nearest newstand and pick up a copy. In the meantime...read all about it:

BEYOND: LIVE & THRIVE AFTER BREAST CANCER

Meredith Special Interest Media Debuts the First-of-its-Kind Magazine for
Breast Cancer Survivors

DES MOINES (September 19, 2006) — Meredith Special Interest Media, part of the Meredith Corporation (NYSE:MDP) announced today that it is introducing Beyond: Live & Thrive After Breast Cancer, a semi-annual publication that provides women who have or had breast cancer, the support and latest information on treatment and recovery.

The Fall/Winter 2006 premiere issue hits newsstands September 19th 2006, with a $5.99 cover price.

“Since more than two million American women live with breast cancer, we wanted to provide this community a resource of support, inspiration and hope,” says Martha Miller, editor of Beyond.

An advisory board of leading experts in the breast cancer field contributed to the premiere issue of Beyond. They include: Susan Brown, the health manager at Susan G. Komen Foundation; Carolyn M. Kaelin, director of Comprehensive Breast Health Center and breast cancer survivor; and Lillie Shockney, Administrative Director at Johns Hopkins Breast Cancer.

The premiere issue provides honest, heartwarming profiles, inspiring stories and practical advice. In the cover story, Dallas Mayor Laura Miller recounts her journey with breast cancer and why she looks forward to a much simpler life.

Also included are the “Pink Pages,” a resource guide and calendar of upcoming races and products that support breast cancer, fashion tips on how to look and feel your best and nutritional information on foods that may help patients in their fight against cancer. Beyond also offers the most up-to-date medical information and, real-life stories on how to battle stress, fatigue and other side-effects of the disease.

“Beyond is packed with tips on how to feel sexy again, how to get your body back after treatment and how to find a sense of normalcy,” says Miller.

Among the articles in the premiere issue include:

To Do or Not To Do: Reconstruction is a big decision. Provided are real options and risks associated with surgery. Also featured are real-life accounts of two women who opted for and against surgery, and answers to common questions about reconstruction.
Chemo Brain - It’s Not In Your Head: Studies show links between chemo and thinking impairment. While doctors still search for answers, featured are coping mechanisms for survivors struggling through the mental fog.
10 Super Foods That Fight Back: The best foods to fight off breast cancer and tips on how to prepare them.
Can We Talk? Sex and Intimacy After Breast Cancer: Practical solutions to feeling confident and sexy in the bedroom.
A Definite Maybe: Your mother had breast cancer, but will you? Examine your family tree to find out if breast cancer is a threat to you.
Feel Your Best: Breast cancer survivors who exercise in moderation are 50 percent less likely to die from the disease than inactive women. Provided are solutions to battling the breast cancer bulge.
Ways to Glow: When treatment wages a war on your skin, fight back with these simple steps to reduce signs of aging and boost your skin’s natural radiance.

Beyond is part of Meredith Special Interest Media’s health group which also includes Diabetic Living and Heart Healthy Living. The health group is committed to providing its readers with the most up-to-date medical and nutritional information.

Meredith Special Interest Media is the largest collection of newsstand publications in the world, with approximately 200 issues a year in the areas of building and remodeling; decorating and design; cooking and entertaining; gardening and outdoor living; health and nutrition; and crafting.

Meredith (www.meredith.com) is one of the nation's leading media and marketing companies with businesses centering on magazine and book publishing, television broadcasting, integrated marketing and interactive media. The Meredith Publishing Group features 25 subscription magazines - including Better Homes and Gardens, Family Circle, Ladies' Home Journal, Parents, Child, Fitness, and American Baby - and approximately 200 special interest publications. Meredith owns 14 television stations, including properties in top-25 markets such as Atlanta, Phoenix and Portland.

2006-09-21T03:23:00.000+01:00

B4B family grows

We'd like to welcome Evelyn Mackintosh to our B4B family. She has just arrived in Australia from the UK, heard about our cause, and wanted to get involved. She is instrumental in helping me get the database set up, doing research, injecting fresh ideas and handling alot of the day-to-day stuff that needs to be done. What a blessing AND perfect timing!

Thanks a million, Evie!!!

2006-09-20T06:07:00.000+01:00

33 HEALTHY WAYS THE BODY RESPONDS TO REBOUNDING

Health is a cause and effect relationship. What one focuses on, where one lives emotionally, the quality of what one eats & drinks, and the frequency one moves their body ALL FACTORS into this. As the old cliche goes, the whole is greater than the sum of all parts. For individuals wanting to be at cause for creating healthy effects, rebounding is one way to acheive this. In doing research into the benefits of rebounding, I have found reports that suggest it can even prevent cancer. The following shows benefits that ultimately improve health at a cellular level.

By Dr. Morton Walker and Albert E. Carter

The study of the human body is fairly interesting. The moment it becomes no less than amazing is when we understand what happens as the body is placed under the demands of movement and resistance we call exercise. Rebounding is an effective exercise that reduces your body fat; firms your arms, legs, thighs, abdomen, and hips; increases your agility; strengthens your muscles overall; provides an aerobic effect for your cardiopulmonary systems; rejuvenates your body when it's tired, and generally puts you in a state of mental and physical wellness. In fact, there are at least 33 fascinating ways the body responds to regular rebounding, detailed below:

Rebounding provides an increased G-force (gravitational load), which strengthens the musculoskeletal systems.
Rebounding protects the joints from the chronic fatigue and impact delivered by exercising on hard surfaces.
Rebounding helps manage body composition and improves muscle-to-fat ratio.
Rebounding aids lymphatic circulation by stimulating the millions of one-way valves in the lymphatic system.
Rebounding circulates more oxygen to the tissues.
Rebounding establishes a better equilibrium between the oxygen required by the tissues and the oxygen made available.
Rebounding increases capacity for respiration.
Rebounding tends to reduce the height to which the arterial pressures rise during exertion.
Rebounding lessens the time during which blood pressure remains abnormal after severe activity.
Rebounding assists in the rehabilitation of a heart problem.
Rebounding increases the functional activity of the red bone marrow in the production of red blood cells.
Rebounding improves resting metabolic rate so that more calories are burned for hours after exercise.
Rebounding causes muscles to perform work in moving fluids through the body to lighten the heart's load.
Rebounding decreases the volume of blood pooling in the veins of the cardiovascular system preventing chronic edema.
Rebounding encourages collateral circulation by increasing the capillary count in the muscles and decreasing the distance between the capillaries and the target cells.
Rebounding strengthens the heart and other muscles in the body so that they work more efficiently.
Rebounding allows the resting heart to beat less often.
Rebounding lowers circulating cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Rebounding lowers low-density lipoprotein (bad) in the blood and increases high-density lipoprotein (good) holding off the incidence of coronary artery disease.
Rebounding promotes tissue repair.
Rebounding for longer than 20 minutes at a moderate intensity increases the mitochondria count within the muscle cells, essential for endurance.
Rebounding adds to the alkaline reserve of the body, which may be of significance in an emergency requiring prolonged effort.
Rebounding improves coordination between the propreoceptors in the joints, the transmission of nerve impulses to and from the brain, transmission of nerve impulses and responsiveness of the muscle fibers.
Rebounding improves the brain’s responsiveness to the vestibular apparatus within the inner ear, thus improving balance.
Rebounding offers relief from neck and back pains, headaches, and other pain caused by lack of exercise.
Rebounding enhances digestion and elimination processes.
Rebounding allows for deeper and easier relaxation and sleep.
Rebounding results in better mental performance, with keener learning processes.
Rebounding curtails fatigue and menstrual discomfort for women.
Rebounding minimizes the number of colds, allergies, digestive disturbances, and abdominal problems.
Rebounding tends to slow down atrophy in the aging process.
Rebounding is an effective modality by which the user gains a sense of control and an improved self image.
Rebounding is enjoyable!

People who rebound find they are able to work longer, sleep better, and feel less tense and nervous. The effect is not just psychological, because the action of bouncing up and down against gravity effectively stimulates the lymphatic system without trauma to the musculoskeletal system. This unique discovery is central to the reasons Rebounding has become one of the most beneficial forms of exercise ever developed.

Happy Bouncing and Healthy Living.

-pb

2006-09-18T02:10:00.000+01:00

The Right Measurements

There are times to give it all you got. And there are times to hold back a bit. And then there are times to remain idle. I'll be the first to admit that getting the right measure takes a bit of practice. I'm the visionaire, the big thinker...the dreamer. This is all so great for the charity. However, it is also important for me to FOCUS on building a solid foundation. (Yes, Jonathan your words are still with me...)

I had to put this into practice recently. I approached my new Adelaide friend, Cole Thomas, about a B4B FUNdraising event for families and the community to take place in October. I knew he would be the best person to talk to as he has an absolute zest for life, owns fab catering company called What a Dish! http://www.whatadish.com.au - PLUS he is the singer of a groov'n band called August Falls. I knew that between us, we could cook up something special that would rock this town.

However, I soon realised that there are still some essential things I need to solidify in the infrastructure to support all future activities, demands and high standard service levels
for our recipients. As much as these were great ideas and I knew I could pull this off - it would be rushed and somethings could easily be missed. Making the decision not to do it at this time was tough, but it was a responsible decision. That felt good.

The great news is, since we have roughly planned it out and we KNOW everyone is going to want to get on board, we can do this at a later date. We have more time to plan and our launch over the coming months will give us even more experience and exposure to improve everything even more.

I also learned something really cool from Cole. He has a great management style that is honorable. He holds his staff accountable for high standards in as much as they hold him accountable for the very same. In his words, "Why ask things of them that I am not able to deliver myself?" He rewards them with incentives for good behavior.

This inspired me. Reward for good behavior and you'll get more good behavior. Inversely, if one punishes for bad behavior - one is likely to get more bad behavior. It's whatever the focus is.

With this in mind and as I am growing a team, I have implemented the RISE Scheme (Reward Incentive & Supplemental Encouragement) Those individuals who meet the outlined objectives on time will receive a 10% bonus (or gift equivalent). If you look at it, one can get a 110% return on investment by doing what they were hired to do. Not bad - better than the banks and it's totally influenced by the individual.

Thanks Cole for your energy and inspiration. I look forward to the future fabulousness we can create together.

xp

2006-09-17T16:11:00.000+01:00

Lord of the Bounce

We have travelled the world on behalf of B4B...even Middle Earth.

Edoras, a town in J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, was constructed on this very remote location in Rangitata Gorge, New Zealand for the recent motion picture trilogy, directed by Peter Jackson. (It's on the hill down in the valley behind Christoph.)

This is God's country. We were blessed to be here today to bounce for all the single mums with breast cancer.

Love and Light x

Priscilla & Christoph

2006-09-14T09:12:00.000+01:00

the Cancer Blog

I could not let this day go by without thanking Dalene Entenmenn of the Cancer Blog http://www.thecancerblog.com for all her support. She found our blog and has been updating their readers on our progress. Though we've not met, it has been her words that have encouraged me - especially the moments I was in doubt of continuing. Heartfelt appreciation for your belief, sharing Kathleen's story and spreading the word.

I encourage everyone to check this blog out. This is an extraordinary resource for anyone affected by cancer of all types. Information on treatment, fundraising, celebrities, consumer, techonology, news, prevention, media, business, events, amongst a host of other valuable resources.

Dalene, Christoph and I think you're an amazing person. The world is a better place because of your contribution.

x p

2006-09-13T05:52:00.000+01:00

Keep'n it real

Anyone who has started a new venture of any sorts will understand what a learning curve there is. Laying a solid foundation for the B4B charity is no exception. As much fantastic experience and heartfelt enthusiasm I bring to the table, along with Christoph and our great team, things can take a bit longer than expected. There are days when I get a bit concerned that things are running behind - especially in touching base with all of you, our wonderful family of readers and supporters. Then I ask myself "Behind in what, exactly?" Are we progressing each day? YES. Are were further than we were a month ago or even yesterday? YES. Is our outcome still visible and on target? YES. Are will all learning and growing? YES. Is there a natural season to things? Yes. Then I realise where we are is not just a good thing - but a great thing. A blessing, really, thanks to all the people who support us and believe in our cause. We are profoudly grateful.

We are also profoundly grateful for your patience as we catch up on our blog entries. Once upon a time ago, I could write daily and at present it's not always possible either due to internet access when on the road or other pressing commitments. I do keep a journal so that you are kept up to date on things. There are many exciting things we're working on from press release to progress FUNdraising intitiatives. All will be revealed in time.

I look back to when B4B began just over 6 months ago for my sister Kathleen. Today, we celebrate so much that has been acheived during this time.

Kathleen finished her chemotherapy and will be heading back to work in a few weeks.
We reached our 100 day goal of $10,000 for Kathleen and her kids
We have become a non-for-profit organisation and are in the process to become a charity
We are taking the requisite time to build a solid foundation of our charity that's going to be around for a very long time, helping countless single mums affected by breast cancer and their kids.
This story has been covered by media & press all over the world - in USA, Germany, and the UK even BEFORE launching as an official campaign later this month.
We have a growing team of FUNdraisers in 3 countries
We have bounced 8 countries and 4 continents to raise awareness.
Have managed to get corporate sponsorship even before becoming a charity status.
Have a fantastic company called Public Zone (www.publiczone.co.uk) who are helping us build a powerful fundraising and communication strategy

Keep checking back with us.

Blessings to you xp

2006-09-12T05:47:00.000+01:00

CALLING ALL BOUNCERS

Another 100 day challenge begins…

We’ve met our first 100 day goal on June 3rd of $10,000 and now it’s time to set another. However, the bar is raised. I pledged to bounce 10,000 times daily for 100 days to raise £100,000 together with a team of B4B AllStars.

That’s right folks. I welcome 9 people to join me to commit to raising £10,000 each. Together, we can reach the £100,000 by the end of the year. And by reaching that goal, I will host a dinner to celebrate on New Years in London. What a way to celebrate the holidays knowing we’ve helped a mom and her kids during their time of need. There is NOTHING BETTER than to receive the gift of giving and the ULTIMATE fulfilment in your heart that it brings.

Is this outrageous? Absolutely!!!!! Is it impossible? No, only if we choose to believe it is.

I plan my life in 3 month chunks (or thereabouts). Here’s the B4B Recipe for Success of my mindset the first time we reached our 100 day goal. And I'm using it this time too!!!!

Believed this campaign adds tremendous value to the quality of life to a mum and her kids whilst she’s undergoing breast cancer treatment.
Employed by a purpose
Huge FUN factor
Outrageous goals– let’s be on Oprah
Clear & simple message
Benefits are clear
Bouncing promotes good physical and emotional health
Easy to promote - using any and all contacts for fundraising/sponsorship/press/marketing
Clear goal of $10K and built as many income streams to achieve to get to the target in a FUN AND EASY way
Took a chance – no fear in failing at all. It’s about LEARNING AND GROWING
Didn’t take myself too seriously
Team mentality – what do others need?
Let others help and asked for help
Sustainable & can be done without one person
Can be done part time
Mega Resourcefullness - think outside the box
Be spontaneous – rock up at a national landmark and have fun
Flexibililty - know your outcome and be elastogirl reaching it
Take a leap of faith – never did this before, just let my heart and intuitions guide me
Stickiness factor – people love the names boobs and the idea - we were the first to do this kind of FUNdraising. In fact, other larger charities modelled our idea
Gorilla marketing – simple ways to market through blog, pinging other blogs and building allies
Everything aligned with my core values
Add value first, people value what you add
Share story – talk to everyone
Brought attention to intention with awakening moments
Niche Market – from our research there are no other breast cancer campaigns focus on single mums and their kids for financial, emotional and wellbeing support.
It brought people together
Feel good factor through contribution
Being silly and creative in coming up with names. IE. Barbeque became Boobeque
Be yourself!!!!!

For those of you who are ready to experience the best time of your life, living outside the box, stretching yourself beyond what you thought you could do and feeling the feeling of being TOTALLY FULLFILLED, then contact us at:

allstars@bouncingforbreastcancer.org or call us on +44 (0)845 899 1276.

You will receive a B4B AllStars FUNdraising Pack including a tshirt, pedometer, collection box. You will also be mentored by myself to experience the most successful, fun and moving experience of your life!!!! If you need a trampoline, we'll get one sorted for you too!

The greatest benefit is knowing that you can get fit, help others and have a FUN time all at once. What could be better than this????

See all of your full hearts, fit bodies and smiling faces on the 31st December in London!!!

Live beyond the limits of your mind and experience how great it is to allow yourself the FREEDOM TO BE YOUR AMAZING SELF.

THE PERSON YOU'VE BEEN ALL ALONG!

love and light xp

2006-09-05T08:16:00.000+01:00

Bodacious Burgers

Christoph and I hosted a dinner to mark the moment. September is the month that we begin our soft press launch.

In true B4B style, we put our creative hats on and came up with a menu inspired by the letter "B". This was the moment that Bodacious Burgers were born. Christoph has copyright on the name - I came up with the recipe inspired by FOOW's Vicious Burger.

Bodacious Burgers

Magical Ingredients

Fresh Boneless Fish of your choice (or chicken, hamburger meat, falafels, etc)
Ciabatta bread, Turkish Pede bread, or Buns
fresh basil pesto
marinated red peppers
olive pate or sliced black olives
boccincini cheese or mozarella cheese
fresh rocket or lettuce of choice
sea salt
lemon pepper
olive oil
LOVE -the most important ingredient

How to Abracadabra

Season an oven proof baking dish with olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt. Bake the fish on high for 20 minutes in the oven or until cooked.

Prepare the bread by slicing them open (toasting it slightly is great). Spread the basil pesto on one side and the olive pate on the other side. Slice the cheese and put on the bottom bun/slice. When the fish is ready, put it on the cheese. Layer with marinated red peppers, rocket and anything else you fancy. Place the top bun and serve.

Simple and Scrumptous!

Bon Appetit!!!

2006-08-25T07:29:00.000+01:00

Big Day for Kathleen

Today is no ordinary day for Kathleen. It's a landmark day...a milestone in her road to recovery.

Today was Kathleen's 6th and final chemotherapy treatment. I spoke to her right after she arrived home from the doctors. She was happy this appointment was behind her.

We congratulate you and love you for the braveheart and the patience to go through this intial phase of recovery, step by step. Like you, many are happy to return to "life", after chemo. Healing is a part of life: we couldn't heal if we were not alive.

Now, as you enter a new phase in a routine of work, homework sessions with the kids, household stuff, seek comfort in the step by step approach that you do so well. Naturally, people may experience stress as they face this period of recovery. Stress is nothing without the attention we give it. It can't survive if we don't feed it. It is the cause of dis-ease within us. Take the time you need and when you feel challenged, invest in what comforts and calms you. Ask for help at anytime, you don't have to - nor are you expected to do this all on your own.

Doctors say you may not be 100% before 2 more years. However, I challenge that. As you have experienced before, doctors speculate based on case studies and averages, and other people's experiences. However, you are extraordinary and have a great deal of faith. I believe in you.

We are what we focus on. It's important to remember that we have the power to heal, starting from our heart. Your heart will lead the way if you surrender to it. You don't need to fight anymore.

May continued peace and healing be with you on your journey in the discovery of what purpose you now have and the compelling future that awaits you with open arms and a smile.

We are all cheering for you!

with love and light, our sweet sister.

your world family x

2006-08-21T09:16:00.000+01:00

Bondi Bounce

Couldn't go to Sydney without visiting the famous Bondi Beach. And as we had the trampoline in the boot of the car, we thought... Carpe Diem. Yes, that's right. We bounced on the beach. The only thing missing was our beach ball and a cozi!

Our friends Sasha, Danielle and Darren had a go.. Even a surfer offered to bounce after he caught a few waves, but we had to save it for next time. Off to the airport with no time to spare...

rise and shine xp

2006-08-19T17:00:00.000+01:00

B4B Soars in Sydney!!!

We came. We bounced. We soared over Sydney Harbour...

I want to celebrate this occasion for a few reasons.

I met up with Ross Bridgeford, one of the directors of Energise for Life http://www.energiseforlife.com. It was the first time we met in person and it was so exciting to put a face to the name. Ross and his team have been with us since the early days of B4B. It was his company that sponsored us a trampoline for the World Tour for Kathleen and they've been a source of endless support and ideas. And it was so cool for Ross to experience a 'landmark b4bounce' and see what great things have come of his wonderful contribution. Most importantly, he saw what fun the kids and onlookers had with it too. Thanks, Ross again for all your support the great energy you bring to life! It makes a HUGE difference to us. I look forward to our future together in making the world a better, healthier place.

Another huge thanks goes out to David Ward and his family for showing such sporting support. They were great weekend hosts and we were delighted for them to join us for the bounce. David and his sons, Richard and Andrew all got spreadeagle shots over the harbour. May you soar to even greater heights for your enthusiastic contribution...

A big thumbs up for the interested onlookers Mark, Eliza, Mischa and Charlotte who rocked up to bounce and contributed to the cause. Well done!

Lastly, thanks for our crafty photographer (and overall wonderful husband), Christoph for your talents behind the lense and perfect sense of timing in getting just the right shot.

Love, px

2006-08-18T01:23:00.000+01:00

Nothing Better

When I began the transition of aligning my life to lay the foundation of the B4B charity, I went through a personal transformation.

Not only did I give up a business to redirect my focus on the great task ahead, but I also realised that there was a shift in my identity and purpose, as well. It took me longer to adjust to the changes - which surprised me (or maybe travelling in 8 countries over 4 continents in 120 days finally caught up with me). Naturally, I questioned myself as to whether I was the best person for the job. Sure, the personal campaign was hugely successful, but heck I've never created a charity before.

How did I do it before? I thought to myself... Ah, yeah, I had passion in my purpose (helping my sister Kathleen and her kids). What would give me the passion again? What clarity do I need to regain my burning - this is a must!- kinda purpose again?

The answer: I just need one single mum with breast cancer. And I know that there are hundreds, even thousands out there that haven't yet found out about us. And we haven't yet been introduced to them.

This was it. I was hooked again...until a week later, when my energy started to fade and vision became blurred. What was happening??? I thought I sorted myself out and found my passion/purpose again??

Question: What haven't I got yet that I need to learn most now?
Answer: You never give something up, you must replace it with something better.

When I closed down one of my businesses, I didn't get specific on the better that was awaiting me. Fear prevented that. So in order to gain momentum again, I needed to get outside my comfort zone and take a leap of faith - a quantum leap of faith! To believe in the magic of my own creation (a simple way is hitting the create button each time i make a new blog :).

I felt like I was taking 5 steps forward and 10 steps back in my mind. I turned to my husband and said, "You know, maybe I should just forget about this. I mean, it was great for my sister, but perhaps this is where I should leave it". However, if I had only known that when I felt most stuck and totally uncertain of my path, I was just moments before my breakthough.

My husband's loving words were, "It's entirely your choice and I support you in whatever you do, however, I would be disappointed if you didn't go ahead with it." The moment of truth was before me. I began to feel small, like Alice in Wonderland shrinking in her chair. He saw in my eyes that I felt as though the weight of the world were on my shoulders. Not recognising this in me, he clarified. "I would not be disappointed in you, but disappointed for the numerous single mom's and their kids who really need the help of B4B. All their worries that caused sleeplessness would go unvalidated. Their concerns for how best to pay for bills go unaddressed. He saw them alone, with no one to turn to who truly understands their situation.

This was the Truth. The Undeniable Truth. A Universal Truth. The Truth that resonated in my heart. It's amazing in life when we face the TRUTH, embrace the TRUTH, and decide to act on the TRUTH - in that moment, our destiny is shaped.

Then, my mind searched for the other opportunties that I currently had and lined them up in front of me. When my husband asked me what else I would do instead, the words came to me...
With quiet confidence and a smile on my face, I said, "There is nothing better to do."

I mean, what could be better than helping others in their time of need? What could be better than helping to improve the quality of life for others by helping them to create a compelling future? And most importantly, what could be better that helping our 'world family' to create an empowering meaning in their experience? Individuals have far greater resources than they realise at any moment and we have the resources to help show them the way in this moment...

Alice in the chair stopped shrinking, when more of the truth in me showed up.

with love and light x

2006-08-14T09:55:00.000+01:00

Journey to the 12 Apostles

Christoph and I drove to the 12 apostles, this famously beautiful natural landmark in Southern Australia. Another roadtrip for Bouncing for Breast Cancer. This trip is personally significant in that it relates to everything that touches my life at present.

You see, the day we left for Australia was a day full of excitement as well as uncertainty of what the future holds.

As I made the final check of the house before heading to the airport, I went into my office and thought to myself - "How am I going to manage building the foundation of B4B from Australia?" Just then, I looked up at a calender on the wall. It had a photo of a beautiful sunset on the horizon of the ocean and a beach with these giant rock formations. The quote read, "If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast" - Psalms 139:9, 10.

WOW, that really resonated with me! Funny, how relevant it is to my life as if it knew I'd be heading to the far side of the sea. Then I looked at the image on the month of July. It was familiar, yet I'd never been there in person. Then it came to me. It was a photo taken along the famous Great Ocean Road in Australia, not far from Melbourne. I quickly tore the page from the calender, locked up the house and entered the cab.

That photo/quote has been with me daily ever since. I knew it was someplace I had to go personally. I had to experience it - the glory of its wonder. Its creation.

Here's an excerpt from my diary the day we drove to visit the 12 Apostles...

"I awoke this morning and looked at the photo from my calender that I tore out the day we left for Australia. The jagged edges. The masking tape that affixes it to the wall by my desk in front of me.

I carefully pealed away the tape and folded it up again. It would accompany me on my journey to real thing. The final leg.

But the journey hasn't begun today. Nor did it begin when I received the calender as a gift in December 2005. No, it began 37 years ago. The day I was born. I was led to this moment. I was born for this moment. And I am reborn each moment I connect with that knowing. That same knowing that there is a purpose to my experience during my trip to the 12 Apostles. There is some learning I will discover, some new distinction I will gain, that will be included in my book, in my charity...in my life.

If I were to connect the dots that led me to the present, I can see all of the little episodes clearly - A conversation with Tessa (Jamie Oliver's Agent) about my book in July 05, my studies last year, Michaelangelo's statue of David, Divine timing and the season for things, Dr. Masuro's work with the messages of water, my back issues (things to slow me down), and the learning during B4B and my sister's recovery from Breast Cancer. Somehow, and how they are all interlinked."

Throughout our drive to the Southern Coast, I scribbled illegibly, page after page in my journal, I knew I was onto something. I could taste the sweet anticipation of postive expectancy. Questions and answers flowed as I travelled through time until we finally reached our destination.

It was truly magnficent. I wanted my first glimpse of the 12 Apostles to be from the helicopter ride (A first for that too!). The tour headed west along the coastline to take in some other great rock formations and coves, saving the best for last. As we made the turn eastward, I could see these great rocks from the distance. It was like coming home. I had looked at the photo from my calender each day for the past month, yet nothing was like seeing it in person.

The years that have shaped them, sculpted them, made them magnificent. The winds of time, the crashing waves, the heat of the sun on each grain of sand.

What a truly fulfilling experience. Better still, we found this great location to bounce. I absorbed this moment to share with my sister, Kathleen and her kids. Even though, we'd met our goal to help her financially, she is always near to my thoughts and heart. Everywhere I go, she travels in my heart and I am to support her in everyway she needs.

The next day, my awakening moment was the golden nugget I was waiting for.

The journey is not the destination; not the answers. It's the questions, the transcending our ourselves.

And it all made sense. The purpose for going there was not just to see it with my own eyes and to bounce, but to experience the questioning and distinctions I gained whilst writing my journal throughout the 7 hour drive there.

I dedicate this learning to my sister Kathleen. To question, is healthy. The quality of our questions always reflects the quality of our lives.

I love you, sis.

xp

2006-08-11T09:37:00.000+01:00

On the road again

B4B has got the itch to go back on tour in continued support of Kathleen and all the other single mums affected by breast cancer.

12th August - 12 Apostles, Port Campbell VIC
19th August - Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge

with love, px

2006-08-10T03:01:00.000+01:00

If the shoe fits, wear it and show it off!

I'd to take this opportunity to honour Diana Duah, our newly appointed in-house PR Officer. She's been with me from Day 1 - from the birth of the personal campaign. She is a colleague who has become a confidante and friend. She has bucket-loads of talent and I enjoy sitting back and learning a thing or two from her.

She shared something with me the other day about an exciting project she was commencing. I was WOW'd by her - it was the voice of a true leader. "Today I got my big break. I questioned whether or not I deserved it, all those questions ‘I don’t know what I’m doing,’ ‘I’m going to mess it up’ where rotating in my mind. Then it dawned on me this was not my lucky break. This was my time to execute the 6 months of preparation I had done. Once I accepted this, I realised everything is achievable and nothing is beyond my talents."

What moves me even more is that this is a voice of an 19 year old. Diana was one of my 'all star' students I taught 4 years ago at London College of Fashion. I ran into her again late last year and I was amazed at how she had grown into a dynamic young woman. She's studying Journalism at London College of Communication and is an excellant writer and go getter. I've celebrated with her every goal she's reached this year. With a high octane zest for life and making the most of every opportunity, she approached me for work experience. The rest is history.

It was clear that the B4B Dream Team had to include Diana. As she refers to Oscar Wilde, ‘The only thing worst then getting what you want is getting exactly what you wanted.’

What a lucky problem to have in Diana's case.

love and light. xp

2006-08-09T20:10:00.000+01:00

Spilling the B4B...

During a jovial conversation over breakfast with some of my husband's colleagues, a suggestion was made to franchise our B4B idea into other areas...Hopping for Hair Loss, Leaping for Lepracy and so on...

As ridiculous as this all sounds, Diana came up with a fab idea when I told her about our breakfast nonsense. It proved that even silly conversations can ricochet into something bigger.

All will be revealed soon. In the meantime, I'd like to thank Xchanging boys, David Ward and Stephen Scott for their inspired ideas, utter silliness, and enthusiasm.

xp

2006-08-03T15:23:00.000+01:00

The light

Kathleen has successfully navigated her way through 5 chemo treatments; only 1 more to go...

My precious sister, I have been deeply inspired as I've witnessed your courage and approach to your treatments and recovery. You went from being strongly opposed to chemo towards reaching a place of embracing it. If it was the vehicle to aid in your full recovery, you were prepared to drive it. And like a true [s]hero; you pulled up your big girl pants with fairy wings and all, put the pedal to the metal, and full steam ahead you went.

As we drive through our journey of life in overcoming mountains, sometimes the most direct routes to take are the tunnels. Even though they might be dimly lit in certain areas, we can take comfort in the certainty that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. And the darker the tunnel, the brighter the light at its end. Knowing that, how can we work with them; plan them; anticipate them; see the adventure in them, for they are a necessary part of the journey?

As I sit here, I wonder how you will honor the tunnels' end, as you enter the light once again after this life-changing experience. What do you need to do to prepare yourself? What will you take with you and what must you leave behind? How did it teach you what you needed to learn most? How amazing does your life look like on the other side? What exciting and fun things will you do and who will share them with you? And most importantly, how will you show your gratitude daily for the gift of your learnings? How will you share your experience? Will you be another cancer survivor or an even more vibrant and beautiful life thriver?

Then I think again. Must you wait for the light at the end of the tunnel if you're ready for it now? How can you now become the beacon of light that guides your way with clear focus, self-love, confidence and truer purpose? If we emit light from within, we will attract it all around us.

And then I think again. To me, to our family, to your kids and your friends, you are the light. You are a shining example of what’s possible in this world. Regardless of some of life’s biggest challenges, you have loved even more, given more, showed greater compassion and understood more. And now you deserve to receive even more love from yourself and for yourself. You see, you were born out of the light of love of God, Dad’s love, your mom’s love. From the day you were born you have lit up the lives of those around you.

Now with the same light and love that has helped us find our own path, led us to our own answers, it is essential for you to be the gracious recipient of your own inner light and love.

Sis, only when you're ready to choose to reconnect to your light within, just close your eyes and imagine yourself now walking into its golden aura. Let it shine down on you. Feel it dance for joy on your skin. Bask yourself in its love and warmth. Breathe in the healing light. Celebrate its connection to your beating heart. As you exhale, see yourself radiate light and love. Like returning home again after a long journey, you can stay there as long as you want. Welcome home to your heart.

When you're ready, open your eyes. Create a poster of it, write about it, and express it with passion and purpose, with great intention and specificity. Then watch how you - yourself -manifest the light naturally within you and for those around you, consistently.

Kathleen, whenever you’re ready, you can reconnect with your own inner light. You’re much closer than you think. It’s always been with you and it will show you the way when you need it most.

I am with you.

with an abundance of love and light - Namaste,

xxxp

2006-08-01T09:14:00.000+01:00

It’s Official – Charity status, here we come!!!!

Hello friends and family- it’s great to be with you again. I hope this finds you well and smiling.

B4B has GREAT NEWS. We are officially well on our way to becoming a charity. The B4B bank account has been set up and we are currently building our winning team of FUNdraisers, Marketers, Steering Committee and Board of Directors. I am personally responsible with all the paperwork and learning curve in what it takes to set up a charity. Anyone interested in stepping up to be part of the heart of this progressive, FUN, and fulfilling charity, please contact us through our website http://www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org/.

I also have a confession to make. Forgive me for not sharing with you the journey from turning this heartfelt personal campaign for Kathleen into an international non-profit organisation for other single moms affected by breast cancer around the globe. For some reason over the last few weeks, I got it in my head that it wasn’t interesting to you. I thought the ground work was boring to you. Then I realised that perhaps it was me getting bogged down with it all. I needed to find passion in my purpose again, just as I did on 26th February when B4B was born.

The other day, Christoph gave me the [loving] nudge I needed. He reinforced the importance of sharing our experience so people can appreciate just what it takes to set up a charity. All the small [seemlingly] unimportant steps that are required. All the choices I had to personally make in changing my life so that the B4B benefits can continue to improve the quality of life for single mothers affected by breast cancer currently in need of financial and emotional support during their treatment and recovery.

Whilst I have been occupied aligning my life so that I can take on the role as CEO/Director of the charity, it dawned on me that many people have been looking for updates on the blog and there weren’t any. It became evident just how important the blog was to others. It became equally evident just how important it was to me. I apologise for appearing to abandon our readers, B4B family of supporters and individuals who find inspiration from this blog. From now one, our learning curve will be one we share with you – afterall, this life is all about learning, growing and sharing. And most importantly, you are an essential part of our journey. For the reason of why we are here today is because you were with us yesterday…

Honouring the little steps is just as important as the big steps. All the menial tasks are just as important as the huge successes. Every moment – every step - is important, for it leads you to where you are now.

Here's what we've accomplished in July:

I closed down a business in order to become the CEO/Director of B4B charity.
We set up the B4B bank account.
We were filmed by ITV who are covering the B4B story.
My husband and I moved to Adelaide, Australia for 3 months for his business.
We have secured a part-time Press Officer
We are working with Public Zone as our marketing specialists

With love and light x

Priscilla

2006-06-26T07:27:00.000+01:00

Welcome Bouncers

Our great pals Tanya and Pete came for lunch and volunteered to join our FUNdraising team. They will be Lead Bouncers - paving the way for public bounces. Their energy, talents and spirit make a great addition to the B4B family.

We love you for joining us in making a difference to thousands of single mums going through breast cancer treatment.

love and peace x

2006-06-25T06:56:00.000+01:00

Taste the Difference

The Sainsbury's bounce was a scorcher. With soaring temperatures and the World Cup, nothing was going to keep us indoors.

We were well received by Jason Whitaker and his team - they went that extra mile to ensure our needs were met.

'Taste the Difference' range extends to Sainsbury's employees' service levels. Very impressive!

In just 4.5 hours we bounced 30,000 times and raised 253.09 pounds.

We were amazed at the level of support we received, especially by young kids. Two brothers, ages 10 and 12, were so moved by our cause that they kept coming back to visit us and donate their spending money. Now, that is something!

love and blessings , P+C

2006-06-23T18:02:00.000+01:00

Called to Bounce

Bounce updates:

Saturday 24th June

Sainsburys Greenwich
55 Bugbys Way
Greenwich
London SE10 0GJ

Time: 10am - 4pm

I'd like to honour Nixy for contacting us to join the FUNdraising family. She read our article in 'Take a Break' and was inspired to get involved and support many single mothers with breast cancer in need.

Welcome aboard!!

love and light x

2006-06-21T23:38:00.000+01:00

An important message from Kathleen

Dear Friends;

It is with much gratitude and thanksgiving that I write and share my deepest appreciation for your support during my time of need.

As a single mom, when I received distressing news that a lump in my breast was malignant, thoughts kept racing through my mind as to how I would support my children and my medical and household needs during recovery from surgery and treatment. I was completely overwhelmed with fear and anxiety, literally shaking; I fell to my knees and asked God for help.

If you have ever questioned yourself in making a difference in someone’s life, please let me assure you that you have made a tremendous difference in mine. It was you who answered a significant call for help. I cannot thank you enough for providing my children and me a life with fewer financial stresses. I have been humbled by all of your financial, emotional and spiritual support of which I have received throughout these past 5 months. I feel as if I have been carried when I was not strong enough to carry myself.

I asked my doctor what people do when they don’t have enough money to buy the prescription medicines to suppress reactions during chemotherapy. He answered, ‘those patients experience full blown reactions or go without treatment altogether’. Thank you from the bottom of my heart—your support enabled me to avoid those devastating options. Even though chemotherapy is not easy, I am able to cope better with those nasty side affects and have the necessary treatment.

Please know that you are being prayed for by me and my children and that I am eternally grateful for your support.

May you be surrounded by blessings;

Kathleen

2006-06-20T00:46:00.000+01:00

B4B World Tour - Part II

We are currently becoming a non-profit organisation and everything is falling into place nicely. This campaign continues to catch media attention on both sides of the Atlantic, thanks to people spreading the word.

The World Tour continues in support of other single mums affected by breast cancer. Christoph and I will be heading to Australia in July for business. We will continue to bounce, raise awareness, FUNdraise, and build the B4B family.

Before we go, we'll be hosting a bounce or two here in the UK. Stay tuned for updates...

x priscilla

2006-06-17T21:28:00.000+01:00

B4B FUNdraising Record

I just got off the phone with Kathleen. It's a good thing I was sitting when she called for I was blown over by the amount they raised at the Bounce at Paradise Health Food in Melbourne, Florida (aka. the Suntree Location).

In just 2. 5 hours, they raised $762.79 PLUS Paradise has agreed to match it. Today's B4B FUNdraising drive totalled $1525.58!

Kathleen and I are completely WOW'd.

Hats off to Christina and B4B newcomers Bill and his friend for doing such a fantastic job in FUNdraisingAND bouncing 13,303 times. How exciting this is!

A HUGE THANKS to the generosity of spirit to all those supporters and Tom Sokoloff and his team.

x p & k

2006-06-16T22:54:00.000+01:00

Paradise Bounce

Saturday 17th June marks the day where the Bouncing team mutiplies.

Tom Sokoloff, Kathleen's friend and CEO of Paradise Health Foods, has invited B4B to bounce at his store in Melbourne, Florida. They're a great resource for vast range of herbal supplements, organic and vegetarian foods, wellbeing products and books. Tom and his team have been so supportive of Kathleen and the herbal supplements purchased from Tom have aided to her recovery and fighting off the viral infection.

Kathleen's friend Bill and my niece, Christina will be bouncing and FUNdraising -
from 10am - 12noon.

Venue Details:

Paradise Health Foods
7777 Wickham Road
Melbourne, Florida 32940
321 242 6040

Good luck and B4B welcomes Bill to the team!!!!

2006-06-15T23:49:00.000+01:00

What is time?

Is it the end or the beginning? Or is it really just the meaning we give it?

I arrived back in London this morning. At Gatwick airport, I stopped by WH Smith to buy a magazine. Not just any magazine though - Take a Break (issue dated 22 June- issue 25). Opening to page 35, I saw our story, along with 1.5 million people in the UK: "Bouncing the World for Kathleen".

I felt as though I have been detached from time since February 24th when the campaign for my sister began. It's been a bit surreal - unlike anything I've experienced before. I have travelled to 7 countries (3 continents), bounced more times and hours than even I could fathom, raised $10,000 for Kathleen with help of my loving husband and the B4B family, raised awareness of the B4B story to over a million people through radio and press, grown a team of FUNdraisers, and spent two weeks with Kathleen, her mom and her kids - helping out in all ways that were needed. Plus, I just managed to keep work going. I learned so much and taught myself so many winning strategies that I am now applying to other areas of my life. I lived a huge range of emotions at a profound level.

Yesterday was a very emotional day for everyone. Kathleen and I could hardly find the words to say what this time has meant to us. What a journey this has been.

She didn't know how to thank me. Where to place everything that this campaign has provided her. "Just place it in your heart", I said. What I've done was born out of all the love, care, friendship and support she provided me since I was came into this world 37 years ago. It's a life cycle of love that has come back to her.

She couldn't believe that I put my life on hold for 4 months to help her out. She said that I gave her life.

I let her words sink in. Then it came to me... Did I put my life on hold or did I begin living? What is 4 months in a lifetime? I lived every moment FULLY. It is she that I must thank. In her time of great need, life asked me to step up and I did. Simple. There was no choice - it's who I am. I began to live in a bigger way, without inhibition or fear. I was authentic in myself to serve another. In the process, I served myself deeply at the level of the heart. I was helping others, getting fit and having fun all at once.

What is time? At a micro level, it may be a beginning or an end. In the bigger picture, it's part of a process. It's part of life. In fact, it's what we make of it. It's not how long we live that's important, it's how we live.

It's how we turn the challenges in life into gifts of learning and empowering moments. It's how life calls us to step up and lead from the heart. So often these past few months, I've heard many say they're a cancer survivor. How can they make this an empowering experience, I thought to myself? How can this be the beginning of a new and extraordinary life? Is it really about being a cancer survivor or a life thriver? For to thrive is to grow strong, to do well and be successful. Spiritually, mentally, and physically. To not give up. Individuals who have been affected by cancer have a depth of learning, skills and compassion greater than most.

It was a tearful farewell. What precious moments we all shared. What healing and peace we shared. What extraordinary love we share. In my husband's beautiful words, "It's not the end, but the beginning of reliving so many wonderful and rich memories." Those will never end.

It was time for me to let go. Just enough to return to my husband, our cat, and my businesses. How do I let go exactly? B4B has become a big mission for me. Each day, my thoughts and focus were about bouncing, planning bounces, updating the blog and FUNdraising.

Where do we go from here? Whilst it's the end of the campaign for Kathleen, it's the beginning of the campaign to help many more. Plus, Kathleen wants to step up to run the B4B campaign in the USA.

If you are a single mum with breast cancer or know single mums who have breast cancer and need help, please contact us through our website http://www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org.

Love and light. xp

2006-06-13T23:32:00.000+01:00

Fairies in Wonderland

Today, I was going to take my nieces to Disney World as a special treat to acknowledge them for all their support and courage they've demonstrated over the last few months. Due to Hurricane Alberto, we were not able to go.

However, our day was not a complete wash out. In fact, we did their favorite things. We called the day...Fairies in Wonderland.

Dunkin Donuts breakfast
pedicure
painting pottery
ice skating
japanese dinner eating with chopsticks
ice cream
midnight bowling
pool and games

From 9:30am til Midnight, the girls did all of their favorite things. We had so much fun and I am so proud of them. Colleen and Christina are very cool to hang out with. If we surround ourselves with people we love, doing things we love, and with intention - life is so much more fulfilling.

Just wonder what it would be to spend a day doing your favorite things, eating your favorite foods, listening to your favorite music, wearing your favorite outfit. From morning to night.

Then do it.

To wonder is a magical thing. It's where possibilities become reality.

2006-06-11T13:19:00.000+01:00

Our Way

Our 'Girls Night Out' was turned into a 'Girls Night In' since Kathleen's been quarantined to the house due to her virus.

We were supposed to go to a restaurant called My Way where a chap named Sonny (who opened for Frank Sinatra) entertains the crowd by singing Ole Blue Eyes' best loved ballads.

Instead, we had a nice meal at the dinner table, brought out the linens and best dishware, got gussied up, and listened to Frank Sinatra tunes.

The finale of the evening was when Frank, a friend of Kathleen, phoned in and sang to us over the speaker phone. He knew Frank Sinatra and also toured as a musician.

We did it OUR Way.

love, Kathleen and Priscilla

2006-06-10T19:47:00.000+01:00

Weekend Bounce-athon...a Sporting Event

The weekend bounce-athon was total success - we bounced 50,377 times in 8 hours.

Despite 90 degree temperatures and rising tropical storm weather, we soldiered on in true B4B form.

Thanks to all the Sports Authority managers - John, Mark, Todd, Christine, Sheri, their staff and all the supporters - we raised an awesome $492.48.

Special acknowledgement to Fran a 4 time cancer survivor (3 x breast cancer). She was such a burst of sunshine and a true inspiration. God bless you.

love xx,

Colleen, Christina, and Moi

2006-06-09T18:51:00.000+01:00

Sunshine State Weekend Bounce-athon

Sports Authority have stepped up to join the Bouncing for Breast Cancer campaign. Thanks to Todd Givens and his team at their Melbourne location (store 362), they've invited us to BOUNCE and FUNdraise at their stores Saturday and Sunday for other moms affected by breast cancer.

Come and visit us as we reach our goal of 50,000 bounces!!!!

SATURDAY BOUNCE - June 10th 2006
Hours: 10am - 2pm

Sports Authority - Melbourne
1750 Evans Road
Melbourne, Florida 32904
tel: 321 722 0150

(across from the Melbourne Mall)

SUNDAY BOUNCE - June 11th 2006

Sports Authority - Jensen Beach
3101 N.W. Federal Highway
Jensen Beach, Florida
tel: 772 692 1771

(across from Treasure Coast Mall)

This is GREAT because often times, people what to know where they can buy a trampoline. Now all they have to do is walk in to Sports Authority and pick one up. They have a range of sizes, plus folding styles for those travellers who like to exercise on the road.

See at the Bounce Spot.

xp

x

2006-06-08T17:07:00.000+01:00

U-turns and Drive-Thru Boobs

Today Kathleen's recovery took a u-turn. She caught a viral infection and needs to go in semi-isolation. What does this mean exactly?

No one other than family can enter the house.
Kathleen cannot leave the house until she sees her doctor next Tuesday
Everything must be wiped down with rubbing alcohol or anti-bacterial products
No body contact with family
Cannot share telephones, laptops or other items that could carry bacterial
Very strict diet of cooked foods

Kathleen also had to be put on antibiotics. If there are even slight changes to her symptoms such as bloody nose, increased fever, diarhea, we are to call the doctor and she will likely be hosptalised. In a sterilized isolation room.

This caught all of our attentions so we had to make some quick changes to the schedule over the next five days.

Firstly, Kathleen is not permitted to go Colleen's dance recital Friday night. As this was an event she was so looking forward to, I will video it for her to view.

Secondly, Kathleen was to make a guest appearance at our two-day Bounce-athon this weekend, however, that too will be taped for her.

Thirdly, we have had to make alternative plans to celebrate a girls night and to honour everyone for their support in this whole experience. I was going to treat Kathleen and her mom Halina to a dinner out at a restaurant called My Way, a restaurant Halina has wanted to go to for 8 years. The pulling power of this restaurant is this guy named Sonny- he sings all of Frank Sinatra Songs (he used to open up for Frank years ago). So now, the plan is to prepare dinner at home, dress up and listen to Frank Sinatra tunes. Rumor has it that another friend (also named Frank who also opened up for Frank Sinatra) will call in and sing through the speaker phone. PLUS he takes requests. Stay tuned for updates on this.

Lastly, Kathleen has been looking for something to pad out her bra (since she lost 3/4 breast a month ago). Her mother found a place that has prosthetic boobs in any shape and size. The original plan was to go there on Friday, however, now that she's under house arrest, we had to think of an alternative. For a few moments, she toyed with the being driven to the place in a clean car. She had it all planned out. Whilst she'd sit in the car, I'd ferry boobs back and forth for her to try on (yes, we have tinted windows). Then an idea was born...Drive -Thru Boobs. Only in America. Only with our crazy sense of humour.

We are so flexible in our approach to life, we have become bonifide ELASTOGIRLS.

love, p

2006-06-05T16:41:00.000+01:00

Martha Stewart Post-Chemo Treatment

Nothing could prepare me for what is required when one goes through cancer or chemo. Especially for single mothers. Each time a robust, yet flexible routine is required.

There's a real science and measurement the process. Just prior to receiving chemo, your body builds up its strength and immunity,only to be knocked down again. Meds are altered to help curb the side effects. Yet each round of chemo can produce different side effects. Sometimes it feels like the goal posts keep changing. However, the goal doesn't change - FULL recovery.

That's why a steady routine is required, especially with kids involved. They call me Martha Stewart around the house. Dishes, laundry, transporting kids, cooking, grocery shopping, ironing, babysitting and entertaining kids, foot massages, leg massages, back scratches, fashion styling, and bouncing for boobs.

Plus, there are special dietary requirements. Kathleen can't have raw foods due to pesticides and bacteria. Everything must be cooked. Sugars are to be kept to a minimum, for they cause the body to operate at 50% capacity in fighting off germs, colds, viruses, and disease.

As Kathleen regains her strength, she can take her herbal supplements. As she's feeling better, she wants to get involved in all the fun stuff we're doing. However, she too must measure her own energy so she doesn't overdue it.

What a learning this has been. And perfect timing that I am here during this time to help. That's what it's all about.

love, xp

2006-06-05T09:19:00.000+01:00

Berlin Bounce

Hi from Berlin - I (Christoph) have been spending the weekend in Germany since Priscilla my darling wife is in Florida with Kathleen and our cat Max Pleasure is well looked after back in London. So I've packed my trampoline and went to the Brandenburg Gate to gather support. People in Berlin are really hospitable and are looking forward to the football. As you can see on the photo, there's a lot of scaffolding going on - that's because the whole city is slowly turning into one gigantic stadium with big screens at every corner. It's quite funny to see how everyone goes a little footie-gaga.

All the best to all you readers from Christoph.

2006-06-03T23:29:00.000+01:00

100 days...$10,000...1 million bounces!!!

I am sitting on the back porch of Kathleen’s house. It’s 6:30am, the house is asleep. The dawn is breaking as the birds are cooing and chirping brightly. The squirrels and bunnies are full of energy. The air is still and humid. I am one with love and peace in my heart. It's Day 100 and we've reached our goals and gained so much more...

Kathleen and I were talking yesterday. And hugging and crying too. We are so blessed to have each other. We are closer than we’ve ever been in our lives. In her words and cheeky humour, “this is what we’ve always wanted – despite the fact it had to take a boob job to make it happen”.

Kathleen’s humour and confidence is stronger than it’s ever been too. She has become reassured by her inner strength, faith, courage and ability to receive love fully through this experience with breast cancer.

I am infinitely proud of my sister. She is such an incredible and beautiful soul. She is a warm and loving mother, daughter, sister and friend. A true inspiration of love, learning, giving and growth - throughout her journey in life.

I am also proud of the immense love and brave-heart my nieces, Colleen and Christina, possess. They are two wonderful young girls who are a mirror reflection of their mother’s love, warmth and giving nature. They too have faced their individual challenges and have overcome them. It was wonderful to spend Friday with them bouncing, brainstorming and broadcasting our campaign in a big way. I learn from them as their approach to life is simple: anything is better than nothing.

My praise also goes to Halina (Kathleen’s mom), our dad, our sisters Felicity and Candy for all their love, prayers, support and time taken to visit Kathleen during recovery. It makes all the difference and what you provide is just so perfect.

Special thanks to Terry and all Kathleen’s dear friends. You have been a community of support for her. You have carried her when she couldn’t carry herself.

My honour and love for my husband Christoph, has grown even more throughout this campaign for he has become even more special to this world. Although he’s only met Kathleen once, he embraces her as a sister and was all too happy to help her through her time of need. DK, ILDVVM - Du bist mien alles!!!

My gratitude, love and respect goes out to all those involved in our FUNdraising family. Diana, you’ve been there from the first moment this campaign was born – and yes, Oprah is still the plan. Charlotte, Helen and Aiden – you’ve been also so helpful with creative ideas and support - PLUS looking after Max, our cat that join the campaign family during Easter weekend. Charlie & Tanya – you made the first bounce a great model to replicate.

Other special acknowledgements go to John at the South Bank and Peter Hart & his team at Staples UK for providing a way for us to bounce and to raise the bar higher on our campaign.

It's Day 100 and these are the successes we celebrate to date!!

Met our goal of $10,000
Bounced 1 million times (156 hours - 6.5 days )
Grown a team of FUNdraisers totalling 7 fantastic individuals of all ages and gender from age 8 to 42
Bounced in 7 countries in front of world famous landmarks/places such as – Taj Mahal in India, Eiffel Tower in France, London Eye in England, Dom Cathedral in Germany, Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, Houses of Parliament in England
Created a wonderful team of sponsors from the beginning – without them, we wouldn’t be so successful – Spreadshirt UK, Flame New Media, Probounce, Raging Thunder, Energise for Life
Created two online shops – UK/Europe and America
Won two corporate sponsors – Staples UK and Xchanging Germany
Featured an exclusive interview with Take a Break Magazine – UK’s no. 1 women’s weekly touching the lives of 1.5 million people
Broadcast interview in one of Florida’s top radio stations 107.1fm WA1A
Awarded Public Zone to be our Communications company when we become a non-profit organisation (they specialise in non-profit companies)

In as much as this campaign started as a personal breast cancer campaign by bouncing on a trampoline to raise money to help a single mum affected by breast cancer, it’s really become a LOVE campaign: LOVE for another in need. LOVE of service. LOVE of growth. LOVE of fun. LOVE of being unique. LOVE of feeling good.

Others have joined this LOVE campaign for they too share these qualities:

True leaders lead from the heart
Selfless service to others is truly the greatest gift we receive
To grow is to be healthy
The fun factor always makes life easier
To value the quality you create
Reward oneself daily with easy wins

Words cannot describe the immense gratitude Kathleen has for everyone’s contribution, love, prayers and support. I want to thank each and every person who has joined our campaign family by sharing our journey and contributing in a huge way through prayers and well wishes, donations, bouncing, sharing your stories, reading the blog, visiting our website, buying tshirts, and spreading the word.

There are a million other ways this campaign has touched me personally – the people, the stories, the challenges, the laughter, the LOVE. The most significant is that I have grown into fully living my true life purpose. I have reconnected with my love for writing and have started my book. I have created a personal transformation seminar. I have turned the invisible into visible.

I will continue to bounce for my sister and other women as a show of love and support. Next landmark in my sites is bouncing in front of the Magic Kingdom at Disneyworld Florida, before returning home to the United Kingdom.

Phase 2 of the campaign begins when I return to London on 15th June and we become a non-profit organisation.

Congratulations to all for make a HUGE difference to the quality of life of Kathleen and her daughters, Colleen and Christina. Thanks for making it real. Thanks for making it happen. Thanks for making it magical.

Amen.

Love and peace,
Priscilla xx

2006-06-02T23:54:00.000+01:00

All dressed up and no place to bounce

The day started off full of excitement and ended even better, however, unlike how we thought it would be.

My FUNdraising team - Colleen, Christina, and their friend Becky - were all dressed up with trampoline in tow and we made our way to Walmart. We were so excited to bounce there as we’d reach many people. After our arrival, we soon discovered we weren't permitted to campaign at their premises because we don't have a federal tax code. The US has much more red tape and legal issues to consider - even for FUNdraising drives. Bouncing on a trampoline brings up insurance/liability issues and it's proven to be a challenge. But that makes this campaign all the more FUN and worthwhile. They're challenges, not dead ends - and we always find a better way...

In true B4B style, we didn't let this stop us. In as much as I could cry, I just knew if I turned my focus, we'd find an incredible opportunity in this situation. Back to the car we went and all started brainstorming. I must say, all the girls had winning ideas.

We first went to Sports Authority, where the girls got their trampoline. The other day, they were interested in having us bounce there and I thought they might be as spontaneous as us in seeing the opportunity for free advertising of their trampoline. However, the MOD said they needed an official letter from us and to have approval from District Manager. No worries, I thought as we already had a back up plan that I was certain would work.

We rocked up at the biggest radio station in the area - WA1A 107.1fm. The goal was to get on air and to bounce in front of their offices during the lunch hour. And that's exactly what we did.

Upon arriving, I introduced myself to the media mogul himself, Ted Turner and told him the story (he owns the radio station). He hooked me up with the morning show talent broadcaster,
Lisa Moldovan, who coincidentally is running a cancer story for
the station. Next, I was in the station room with Bill Robbins, the broadcaster, and he taped me for 5 minutes. We were aired 20 minutes later at 11:47am.

Certainty meant that all this all happened in the space of 30 minutes. The girls bounced in front of the station and we raised $132 in 1.5 hours and bounced 10,765 times.

WESH 2 TV is interested in knowing what other locations we'll be bouncing, as they consider this for a story. So I'm talking to a few other places to bounce this week. The campaign continues strong as we reach the second phase: becoming a non-profit charitable organisation that will help other single mums with breast cancer in need financial, emotional and wellbeing support.

love to the team xx

2006-06-02T13:42:00.000+01:00

Xcellent!

Today I (Christoph) spoke to John Attenborough of Xchanging in Frankfurt, Germany. After introducing him to the concept and background of this campaign, he was happy to announce Bouncing for Breast Cancer as the Charity of the Year for Xchanging's Management Council (XMC). This is phantastic news and shows that corporate sponsorship is not reserved for big and long standing organisations. With John and his management team supporting our cause, we broaden the base for our charitable organisation considerably.

Thanks in advance for your support, guys!

2006-06-01T22:32:00.000+01:00

The gal who earned her wings

Many cancer patients get wigs when they go through chemo. Kathleen got wings. God knows she's earned them.

Kathleen is off to the Chemo Lounge this morning for her cocktail. She's in good spirits. Anyone who has come into her presence knows what a warm, cheerful and giving person she is. I am consistently impressed with her abilities to embrace her experience to grow into an even better person.

Another person who has earned their wings is Terry, Kathleen's special friend. It was a great pleasure to finally meet him in person. The two of them look pretty good in a his and hers matching haircut.

We have a bounce scheduled at Walmart in Viera, Florida from 10am – 4pm tomorrow – Friday 2nd June.

Day 99 and less than $1400 to go…

Let’s rock and roll…
xp

2006-05-31T23:41:00.000+01:00

Simply the Best

Words cannot describe the peace in my heart I feel by being reunited with Kathleen and the girls. I'm pleased to say that she's in pretty good form and she looks absolutely gorgeous with the 'full moon' look. Radiant. Stunning. Simply the Best.

Great news, we have a few venues that we're planning to bounce in Florida. Once days/times are confirmed, I'll post the info on the blog.

More great news, Staples wants to take this campaign to other locations throughout the UK. Lucky for us. Even better for the single mums affected from breast cancer we'll now be able to support.

We've now raised just over $8500 - less than $1500 remaining. Good going to all who are showing their love and commitment to make this happen.

Kathleen starts her chemo again tomorrow. Doc is changing her meds so that the second chemo should produce less side affects for a shorter period of time. We can only hope for the best.

Over and out. Nightie, night. Sweet Dreams.

x love, priscilla and kathleen

2006-05-29T05:25:00.000+01:00

Flying High

Day 95 - raised $8289 - only $1711 to go...

As much as this campaign has found our feet barely touching the ground, this day has been reassuringly grounding.

I am where I need to be. Today's answers open up the possibilities of tomorrow.

Tomorrow I will be reunited with my sister, Kathleen and my neices. Without her, we wouldn't be doing this.

I honour this day, myself, Christoph, Kathleen, Colleen, Christina, Halina, Dad, Felicity, Diana, Charlotte, our Sponsors and the numerous other beautiful people have been a part of the B4B journey.

Thanks also to Joanne Wakenshaw, the professional photographer, who offered to take this fab photo.

See you all Stateside.

with love and blessing, always

xp

2006-05-28T22:39:00.000+01:00

Boobeque

Why have a Barbeque when you can have a Boobeque?

Today marked the official 7 day countdown to day 100. It was a time to acknowledge and celebrate our successes so far.

The event turned out just as I imagined: a great mix of old friends, new friends & neighbours, kids bouncing on trampolines, lots of laughter, FUN food that begins with the letter B, Giant Jenga for those people who really love a good challenge, and not a raindrop in site.

A BIG UP to everyone who contributed to our FUNdraising drive during the Boobeque. We've now reached a total of $8196.

With the help of such quality people, I have certainty we'll reach $10,000 by Saturday 3rd June 2006.

(ps. we've started a new trend, shown in the photo - instead of saying cheese to the photographer, say...BOOB)

2006-05-27T22:27:00.000+01:00

WOW'd

WOW - That sums up the day perfectly in sooo many ways!!!!

WOW'd at the Staples Bounce

WOW to Peter Hart, Sales Manager at Staples in Charlton for making this day happen
WOW to his team for all their infinite support, smiles and attending to our needs throughout the day - Nisha, Ana, Ibrahim, Jamie, Victor, and Mr. Abdulganiyu
WOW to Staples Head Office UK who have agreed to match £ for £ = totalling £500 raised for the day
WOW to all those patrons and passers-by who donated to our cause, making a huge difference
WOW to Jo, the professional photographer for her great shots to approach local press with this story
WOW to our legs for supporting us in bouncing 46,791 times today (8.5 hours of bouncing)

WOW to Kathleen

WOW to Kathleen making an appointment with the hairsalon today. I received a call during the bounce -she woke up this morning and found most of her remaining hair was loose on her pillow case. Today was the day we knew would always come - the day she'd shave her head. She was naturally feeling anxious so I comforted her with the winning woman's sure-fire approach: (1) Face the moment looking great in her favorite outfit and (2) reward herself afterwards by getting a nice pair of earrings because we'd see her beautiful ears even more
WOW to the fact she turned shaving her head, a commonly traumatic event for cancer patients, into an experience of self-appreciation
WOW that she loves her new look so much she decided not to wear a scarf when she left the hair salon
WOW to the fact that she is laughing again and she has great moments in the day
WOW to the fact that she's feeling herself more and more when the side effects of chemo subside
WOW to her courage to carry on each day, despite her discomfort and unfamiliar experiences
WOW to her ability to continue to inspire others through her experience

WOW to Terry

WOW to Kathleen's friend, Terry, for shaving his head today so she wouldn't go through this alone
WOW to the fact that he finds her even more beautiful without her hair, for he says he can see her beautiful features even more
WOW to Terry for being by her side since the beginning
WOW to the fact he moved house just before her surgery so he could be only 20 minutes away vs. 1 hour 20 minutes
WOW that he loves her for her true self

WOW to Christoph

WOW to Christoph to the fab posters he made today
WOW to all his initiatives in this campaign - currently making a DVD of the story
WOW to his love for Kathleen and her kids
WOW to the fact that he is such incredible partner and he touches so many peoples hearts with his kindess, sincerity and sense of team spirit
WOW to his sense of fun that he sung two of Kathleen's favorite songs with me into the phone when she was at the hair salon

2006-05-26T23:39:00.000+01:00

Weekend Wonders

With 7 days to our $10,000 goal, we're pulling out all the stops. This is how our weekend is shap'in up.

Saturday 27th May - 8 hour Bounce at Staples, in Charlton
Sunday 28th May - FUNdraising BBQ (Boob-B-Q)
Monday 29th May - Surprise venue in London

Happy Bank Holiday weekend and Memorial Day weekend to all ...
xp

2006-05-25T09:45:00.000+01:00

Quality Questions

I have learned that the quality of our life reflects the quality of the questions we ask ourselves. In other words, if we don't like the answers we're getting, ask a better question.

This may seem as foreign to many of you as it was to me a few years ago. I didn't realise I could ask questions. I just struggled through life until, I (1) learned I could ask myself questions and (2) gave myself the permission to do so. The more I asked questions, the better I became at it.
I knew that if the quality of my life was to be improved, I had to be the cause. For me, a quality moment creates a compelling future filled with sweet anticipation.

As I've shared with you in a previous blog entry, the last words Kathleen said to her doctor before going into surgery for her mastectomy was "You were born for this very moment". I found this to be a very profound expression and I have been using it in my life ever since.

I was faced with a challenging situation recently and so I turned Kathleen's expression into a question, How were you born for this very moment?

All of a sudden a vast amount of resources from within presented themselves and I knew the solution. From that day, I acknowledge the choices or decisions I make that improve the quality of my life. I usually start with one of these questions:

What were the choices I made that improved the quality of my life today?
What didn't I do that improved the quality of my life today?

Through this campaign, I have rediscovered just how important it is to live each day by being fully present and fulfilled. Life ain't no dress rehearsal. The past is in the past, the future is yet to come, the power is in the present moment.

When faced with uncertainty, I sit quietly. Instead of controlling the mind, I control the body (which controls the mind) - I breath deeply, I stretch, I calm. Sometimes, I ask God for assistance. Let the answers be known...

"How can I best live my way into the answers?"

Here's to living a quality life today.

love, p x

2006-05-24T21:36:00.000+01:00

Friend, Supporter, and Family

I thank you for your time in reading this update on the Bouncing for Breast Cancer (a.k.a. Bouncing for Boobs) personal campaign.

I know there are some of you who want to donate to our cause and the good news is that there's still time left to do so. In fact, I've made it easier by accepting credit card/debit card donations through our website - www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org.

Firstly, let me say how humbly grateful I am for how far we've come in this emotional and inspirational journey. Without the support from all over the world from outstanding people such as yourself, we would not be where we are today. Kathleen and her children are so touched by the outreach from the world community.

To recap, I started this personal breast cancer appeal to help my sister and single mum, Kathleen, on 24th February 2006. I pledged to bounce 10,000 times a day to raise $10,000 in 100 days. All proceeds go towards basic living costs during the 5 months she's unable to work and bring an income. Together with a small and dedicated team, we celebrate our successes to date:

Raised just over $7,000 in just 90 days!!!!
Bounced over 900,000 times (approx 135 hours)
Bounced in 6 countries - England, India, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland
Landmark bounces include Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower, London Eye, Dom Cathedral, Leaning Tower of Pisa
Our story will be featured in an exclusive interview with UK's no. 1 women's weekly magazine June 15th
Created a blog that has been full of updates, inspirational stories and a few laughs
Touched the lives of thousands of people in spreading hope to those affected by breast cancer
Found a company to help turn this into a nonprofit organisation to support single mothers worldwide
Made a profound impact on my sister Kathleen in our support during her surgeries, recovery and chemo

The Countdown begins - 10 days remaining to reach our personal target of $10,000 on Day 100 of this campaign - June 3rd, 2006. Our aim is to raise the remaining $3,000 by then and we can only do this with your wonderful support.

Kathleen and I would be profoundly grateful for any amount of support you can contribute to this worthy cause - through personal donations, spreading the word to friends and colleagues to kindly do the same, purchasing our fab tshirts, and sending well wishes. Good news is that we are now able to take credit/debit card donations online in addition to Paypal payments.

Making a difference has never been so easy.
1. Log onto www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org
2. Click on the donate button
3. Choose Paypal option or Non Paypal (credit/debit card)
4. Make your donation - any amount is so appreciated
5. Feel great knowing you've made a HUGE difference today

Do check our blog for its updates on Kathleen and uplifting stories http://bouncingforboobs.blogspot.com

I am flying to America on 30th May to spend two weeks with Kathleen and my nieces. She lost 3/4 of her reconstructed breast due to complications in the healing and she's lost most of her hair from the 1st chemo treatment. However, she has her LIFE and this is to be celebrated. During my visit, I will be going to the hospital with her during her 2nd chemo treatment and assist her through the side effects. Additionally, I will support her to create a compelling for herself and to lovingly embrace her new body image.

Thanks for your time and for stepping up to contribute in whatever way you can. May you continue to rise and shine in your greatness.

With love and heartfelt blessings,
x priscilla & kathleen

2006-05-22T13:13:00.000+01:00

Love by Default

I'd like to honour another sister, Candy, for all her prayers and well wishes for Kathleen. I know that in her special way, she is making a difference to Kathleen and the family.

Our family is extended in a modern world kind of way. My dad has been married a few times so we have added offspring to the family throughout the years. As a result, I have had the fortune of sharing life with a diverse mix of siblings who see the world in equally diverse perspectives.

Candy is the eldest daughter and is much older than I - 12 years to be exact (2 years older than Kathleen). Funny, at my age of 37, it doesn't sound that big of an age gap. Yet when I was a little girl, it seemed as wide as the Grand Canyon. This is an old photo of us - 20 years to be precise. I'm so grateful I still have it as it's the only photo with all of our Dad's daughters together - Candy, Kathleen and myself. (Big hair fashion police would arrest us on the spot in this day and age.)

We've all grown up into unique, loving and talented women, each making our own special contribution in this world. Over the years, there have been times it felt as if this has led us opposite directions. Admittedly there were moments I had wondered if we really have enough in common to bridge the gaps of time. Then I thought again. I have learned that despite the distance, true connection exists from where we live in our hearts vs. where we live in this world. Whilst I haven't seen Candy in several years, I love her by default in a sisterhood kind of way.

To me, loving by default requires no effort. It exists without judgement, without fear of rejection, without the distance of time and geography.

It comes with a full heart of warmth and acceptance of the other. From the very same heart as our Creator that exists within everything. The Universe. You & me. All living things.

With love and blessings to Candy, Kathleen and all my extended family...

xp

2006-05-20T17:22:00.000+01:00

Mr. Big

What I love most about this campaign is sharing it with my beloved Christoph - my Mr. Big.

We have so much FUN bouncing together and it's amazing just how much the time flies. We laugh so hard, we lose our balance sometimes. We alternate being DJ and spinning our favourite bounce tunes. Tina Turner's "Simply the Best" is my number 1. Christoph prefers the likes of Basement Jaxx.

Two weeks to go to reach day 100 in the campaign and $3000 left to raise. This is what we've got lined up in these final weeks:

27th May- a public bounce venue t.b.a.
1st June - bouncing at Disneyworld, Florida
3rd June - bouncing in Melbourne, Florida

love xp

2006-05-19T16:59:00.000+01:00

The full moon is rising

Kathleen has lost 50% of her hair in the past week. By the time I arrive, all of it is likely to have fallen out.

My assistant, Diana shared with me a song by India.Arie titled, "I Am Not My Hair". What I loved about it is the reference in Verse 3 as she artfully describes the effects of breast cancer and chemotherapy. She writes:

[Verse 3]

Breast Cancer and Chemotherapy
Took away her crown and glory
She promised God if she was to survive
She would enjoy everyday of her life oooh
On national television
Her diamond eyes are sparkling
Bald headed like a full moon shining
Singing out to the whole wide word like Hey....

[Chorus]

I am not my hair
I am not this skin
I am not your expectations no no
I am not my hair
I am not this skin
I am a soul that lives within.

I shared this with Kathleen and she loved it. Her shiny full moon is rising and her eyes will sparkle even more like the stars.

love and blessings xp

2006-05-18T23:54:00.000+01:00

How the wrong way can really be the right way

I had an appointment with my massage therapist tonight. It was the first time I went to her studio so I checked the map before the journey to ensure I knew the quickest and most direct route.

She was located on a long winding road on a hill and I didn't know if it was towards the bottom end or the top end. I made the decision to enter at the bottom and soon realised that it was the wrong end by looking at the house numbers.

I became somewhat stressed and annoyed as I was already running a few minutes behind schedule. As I drove along, I even began to question myself whether or not I was going the right way. I could not longer see the numbers on the buildings or street signs. Was I lost?

As I climbed the hill, I soon noticed the biggest, most incredible rainbow I'd ever seen. The colours were so rich and deep - red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. I was so captivated by it, I followed it up the hill like a kid following coloured balloons in the sky. Climbing higher and higher, I became closer and closer to the end of the rainbow.

Then reality hit me and I remembered my appointment. I refocused on finding the building and to my delight, I was just in front of it. Any stress was replaced by a sense of calm, joy and confidence that I was in the right place all along.

When Julia answered the door, I told her about the rainbow and she came out to witness this awesome sight for herself. But when we looked into the sky, the clouds had come in and the rich and vibrant colours were fading away.

It dawned on me that sometimes the magic in life we witness is intended for our eyes only. These moments represent life learnings worth more than a pot of gold. My golden lesson was that it is essential for me to trust that where I am at all times is where I need to be. There are no wrong ways. There are no ordinary moments.

What was even more significant about this experience is that I intended to share the healing properties of colours with Kathleen and all of you. Coincidentally, they are the colours of the rainbow. May you find healing in the colours of your rainbows...

RED represents VITALITY, COURAGE, SELF CONFIDENCE. It is used in photodynamic therapy to erradicate cancer. Red is a warm color that promotes healing. It will warm cold areas to reduce pain and releave stiffness. Red stimulates circulation of blood and flow of adrenaline. Persons with high blood pressure should use with caution. Red energy governs the ROOT CHAKRA.

ORANGE represents CHEERFULNESS, CONFIDENCE, RESOURCEFULNESS also a color of energy. Orange helps stimulate mental enlightenment. It is used to increase immunity, sexual potency and aid digestive ailments. Stimulates digestion. Orange can be used to help heal conditions of the kidney, bladder and lungs . Orange governs the SPLEEN CHAKRA.

YELLOW represents WISDOM, CLARITY, SELF-ESTEEM mentally stimulating. It strengthens the nervous system. Helps cure dermatitis and other skin problems. Yellow can be used for conditions of the stomach, liver, and intestines. Yellow governs the SOLAR PLEXIS CHAKRA.

GREEN represents BALANCE, LOVE, SELF CONTROL promotes calmness. Green is a good general healing color because it stimulates growth. The ancient Egyptians and Chinese used green as the primary color of healing. A good color to help create an atmosphere of serenity. Green governs the HEART CHAKRA.

BLUE represents KNOWLEDGE, HEALTH, DECISIVENESS, serenity and harmony. Blue is helpful in cooling, calming, reconstructing and protecting. It is very good for burns. Solarized blue water is an excellent tonic for laryngitis or inflammation of the larynx. Blue governs the THROAT CHAKRA.

INDIGO represents INTUITION, MYSTICISM, UNDERSTANDING Indigo is used for conditions of the ears, nose and eyes and has anesthetic properties. Indigo is cool, electric, and astringent. Indigo governs the BROW CHAKRA.

VIOLET represents BEAUTY, CREATIVITY, INSPIRATION, expands divine understanding It is good for mental and nervous problems. Helps with pain, is used in deep tissue work and helps heal the bones. Violet governs the CROWN CHAKRA.

(source for image and healing properties: Jan LeComte)

with love and blessings...xp

2006-05-16T18:51:00.000+01:00

Discovering the art of balance

I support people to be true to themselves and authentic in who they are and what they do in all situations. I practice this myself.

I have rewritten this entry many times in my head and I'm grateful to finally share with you. I didn't quite know how to word it or how to tell you. I had to manage my own expectations and emotions.

Last week, I reached the tipping point of emotional and physical imbalance. The rash that broke out on my chest, neck and back was likely as a result that I had over extended myself emotionally and physically in recent weeks. I had given so much to others, that I hadn't looked after myself as well as I thought.

In order to find my balance again, I needed to cleanse, engage in lower level activities to support my structure. Thus, I had to hang up the bouncing for a few days. I am pleased to say that I'm now back on the trampoline again.

This was a humbling experience for me. I thought, I of all people, practiced the art of balance. After all, it's a subject I help others on. But in order to teach others, I must be a practioner myself. I was grateful for the learning and the opportunity to finally get what it was that I hadn't gotten yet: the essentials to creating the art of balance. To be connected to everything and attached to nothing.

How do I do this?

Surrounding myself with a healing environment - even more so during the times when serving others in need.
Being gentle and loving with myself at all times.
Using aromatherapy oils, gemstones and crystals to aid in the balance and regeneration of energy.
Consistently, eat and drink in a way that revitalises me.
To rest properly.
Deep breathing exercises and stretching.
To care for myself as if I were my very own child.

With adding extra bounces each day and counting Christoph's numbers, I'm happy to say we will make our 1 million bounce target on the 3rd June - day 100.

The beauty of this personal campaign is that it has evolved into a massive team spirit. Kathleen, Halina, Colleen, Christina, Christoph, everyone who has contributed in the form of prayers, well wishes, donations, bouncing and readers of this blog are all a part of our team.

With such a quality team around me, I knew I could be true to myself, take time for myself and to be honest with you. A million thanks to you.

love and blessings xp

2006-05-14T17:33:00.000+01:00

The Chemo Lounge

Kathleen received just over 4 hours of chemo. She thought she'd receive a cocktail mix of chemicals that would be administered. However, it appears they need to give 4 different fluids separately - hence the time it takes.

The room is like a lounge. First, they give you something to relax the body, so it will accept everything that follows. Then one by one, the other bags are emptied. With her most sentimental & healing possessions surrounding her, her body accepted the treatment.

As a keen observer to life, she was curious to experience all the side effects on her. By the time, she got home from the hospital, she felt as though her body was compressed by a stack of books.
Her level of fatigue had hit max overload.

On Saturday, the symptoms changed. Her nerve endings were raw and she began to shake involuntarily. She said she walked/shook like an elderly person. These are only some of a long list of side effects:

nausea
vomiting
loss of appetite
diarrhoea
constipation
shaking
hair loss
swelling
metal taste in mouth
discoloured skin and nails
skin rash
dry skin
sensitive to sun
temperature
flu symptom
heart palpatations
sleeplessness
mouth ulcers
fatigue

On my mantleplace in my office, I have lit a purple candle in front of a photo of her. Next to it, is a bouquet of yellow roses. Her favorite colour. Even from a distance, I surround her with the all the healing energy I can offer as if I were there by her side.

I will be with her from 30th May-14th June. It will be so good to be with her and to be by her side during the next chemo visit.

In kathleen's words...Peace out.

xp

2006-05-11T19:04:00.000+01:00

Let the light in

I spoke to Kathleen late last night after she met with her oncologist. She starts chemo today. Wow, so soon, I thought. Yet this is the moment Kathleen has been preparing for and thank God she's healed enougth to embark on this important phase in this journey. It's one step closer to complete recovery.

She's mentally and emotionally prepared. She's taking with her a treasure chest of items that will support her and comfort her during the 4 hour process. Photos of her family, scriptures from the Bible, Peace and calming aromatherapy oil, her favorite music and a Bouncing for Boobs flyer.

i was so pleased she was ready for this moment. However, I had mixed feelings and needed to manage my own expectations of being there. The plan was to be with her for the first appointment, but we obviously didn't know it would be so soon. I went to bed asking myself what awakening message I am to know for Thursday, in order to find peace within. And most importantly, a message that will help her throughout the day.

Morning eyes opened. With my cat, Max sleeping soundly beside me, I could hear birds singing. I layed there quietly waiting for the message to come through like a letter through a post box. Nothing was delivered.

So after a few minutes, I got up out of bed and flung open the curtains and said to Max (who was now awake and performing his morning yoga routine), "It's time to let the light in".

That was it and it resonated within. I asked myself, "How can you let the light in your heart?".
A sense of peace ran over me like a light warm summer rain.

Life is as beautiful as we choose to see it; I just had to let the light in.

with love and blessings x

2006-05-10T23:23:00.000+01:00

We've come a long way

There are 25 days remaining of this personal campaign to reach our $10,000 and we are truly grateful for all the support we have received to date.

Celebrations so far:

Kathleen is recovery slowly, but surely and all the support from everyone has made a difference
we've raised over $6500
our story will be featured in the UK's no. 1 women's magazine in June (info and details to follow)
bounced in more countries on my trampoline than I ever dreamed of
created a great team
Done more than we ever thought we could in this period of time

It's time to step up the momentum and take this campaign to the next level. That means I will be doing even more to ensure we reach our targets through love, creative thinking and more bouncing...

PLUS, this is an opportunity for everyone who has yet to make a contribution to do so. How can you help us reach the $10,000 target and celebrate together in this achievement?

Click on the link to our website - www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org
Click on the DONATE button
This takes you to a screen with two options - donate via your paypal account if you have one OR even easier - to pay via credit or debit card.
Feel great by receiving the gift of giving.

It's that simple to make a difference.

love and blessings. xp

2006-05-08T20:30:00.000+01:00

Thank you, Patience

Back home in London after 10 days on the road, 100,000 bounces, in three countries, covering a couple thousand kilometers and staying at 5 different places. Phewee, it's been a whirlwind trip. For those of you who follow our blog regularly, a million thanks for your patience and staying committed to this cause. Today, has been the first day that I could upload the blog with last week's entries.

Unexpected during this trip, that there would be limited internet connection and sometimes none at all. I rocked up with my wireless laptop at one office supply/internet shop in a small town in Italy and not only did they not have wireless, but i could not upload any images for they only accept floppies. Bless. Love the rural parts of the world -the only hot spots they know of is where the sun shines.

To be honest, it was a nice challenge to have. I needed to be unreachable for a few days to recharge and gain momentum for the last quarter of this personal campaign.

love and blessings x

2006-05-07T23:42:00.000+01:00

Lean on me

(adapted lyrics of Bill Withers' song, Lean on Me)

Sometimes in our lives we all have pain.
We all have sorrow.
But if we are wise,
We know that there's always tomorrow.

Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on.
For, it won't be long 'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on.

Please swallow your pride
If I have things you need to borrow.
For, no one can fill those of your needs
That you don't let show.

Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long 'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on.

If there is a load you have to bear
That you can't carry,
I'm right up the road
I'll share your load
If you just call me.

So just call on me sister, when you need a hand
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'd understand
We all need somebody to lean on.

Lean on me when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
Till I'm gonna need Somebody to lean on.

Lean on me...

xp

2006-05-05T19:29:00.000+01:00

Bosom Buddy and the Boob Tube

Today was Kathleen's follow-up appointment since her surgeon removed the majority of the breast a week ago. I howled with laughter when she told me the doctor had no choice but to remove her drainage tube. Rather than updating you myself - here is her amusing anecdote, health UPdate and continued praise to all that are there for her...

"Finally some good news! Saw Dr M today and he said things look better than he though it would. He was very encouraged of my stage in healing for the first time... No signs of infection so, I am officially off of anti-biotics! It has been nearly 4 months that I have been taking them. Ugh. Now I can build my system up. Yeah.....

Dr. M took the drain tube out.... uh huh oh yah.... He had to anyway because Buddy, my hamster, bit the tube when I was holding him on my lap, yesterday.... Hahahahah... he bit the boob tub! Okay I thought this was funny.

I have entered the next phase... I have the go ahead from Dr M to get the ball rolling for Chemo. I have a heart scan and lung xray prior to the start. We're looking with in 2 weeks, I believe. Priscilla, my youngest sister will be coming in from Europe (lives in London) for 2 weeks to help me out during the initial start up. It will be a blessing to have her here. She is a natural cheerleader as her occupation reflect this... Life Coaching and Fashon Stylist. Therefore, I will not only have my own personal cheering squad but what better timing to also get a make over! She will come in handy during those 'I don't care what I look like days'... Ha ..... You all won't believe this one.... I bought a RED wig as I will wear it and alternate that with perhaps a BLOND or BLACK one...(still deciding). That's what she will do best... help me have fun with this.

Mom has been a trouper. Picking up the slack on a continued basis has been draining... I can't thank her enough for her DAILY support, and loving care.... running errands, wound care, playing taxi cab driver to her grandchildren and especially taking me across state to Moffitt on an almost weekly basis. But, she will not be putting her taxi hat away anytime soon....She will be driving me for my Chemo appointments that will be about 20 min away in Merritt Island, every 3 weeks.

Well, this is the update... There is always more to say...including, I am feeling so much better and stronger. -----You all have been wonderful to me with your cards, emails and calls... thanks.. they mean very much to me.

Okay...... As Bud Lightyear would say..... "Onward and Upward to infinity and beyond......."

Love to you all, Kathleen

2006-05-03T22:52:00.000+01:00

Overcoming Mountains

Driving through the Alps was the most enriching decision I’ve made in a long time. It may be obvious to everyone else, but I had not realised how much Kathleen’s experience with breast cancer has had an emotional impact on me. Yesterday, I hit a brick wall and I didn’t see it coming. I was raw and hyper-sensitive, to which my husband didn’t know how to respond. Hell, I didn’t know how to either.

Later in the day, as our car climbed through the foothills of the Swiss Alps, my stressed body was so grateful to feel the bright sunshine warm my skin, to inhale the brisk clean air, to smell the green grassy meadows, to hear the sounds of nature and to look down below from a higher viewpoint. I became more relaxed and I let the journey heal me. In silence, I noticed how these mountains reflected this moment in my life in its rawness and its beauty…

There are jagged edges and yet there are smooth and soft rolling hills. The climb to the summit can be at times gradual and other times vertical. And I gain such pleasure in coasting downhill, knowing that the brakes are there to help when I’m going too fast.

In crossing the mountain summit, we had a choice to go through a tunnel or over a pass. This provided us with a few opportunities. The great thing with tunnels is that they provide the most direct and quickest route, however they can be very dark, intense, and you must rely on your own light to see you through until you reach the light at the end. On the other hand, the great thing about taking the mountain passes is that whilst it requires more time, it is filled with more adventure, provides more time to reflect and take in the awesome sights.

In the end, we crossed the peak by taking a mountain pass, and we also took tunnels when there was no other choice by car. Due to weather conditions, we experienced road blocks and we needed to find alternate ways to overcome the obstacles. Knowing that we had the essential information and a few options to choose from, we experienced no stress and could calculate our arrival time realistically.

When we had descended into the foothills on the Italian side of the Alps, I realised, there were many ways we could have made it. Because we were just travellers passing through, it was up to us to choose how to reach our destination and how much time we wanted to invest.

Finally, I noticed how consistently time aligns with the seasons to reflect the cycles of life: in winter, there is hibernation; in spring, there is creation; in summer, everything blossoms; in autumn, there is reaping and harvesting in order to prepare for the winter again.

Before rounding a final bend in the road moving away from the Alps, my husband said to me “Take a look behind in the rear window, isn’t that a beautiful sight?”

It was not only a beautiful sight, but it was also a beautiful experience in all its ups and downs. I am forever grateful.

By allowing my environment to heal me, teach me and challenge me… I mastered it.

2006-05-02T18:18:00.000+01:00

Hallelujah

Today was a day full of mixed feelings. The joy of completing another Kathleen World Tour bounce and receiving an email from her moments afterwards, overwhelmed me with emotions.

With heavy heart, I share with you some distressing news. When Kathleen unwrapped the bandages from last Thursday’s minor surgery, she discovered that ¾ of her breast had been removed. She was not prepared for, nor expecting this. It appears that most the tissue was dead or compromised so the doctor had to make the best decision for her health and remove most of the breast.

As I am travelling, I received the news only this morning when I checked my emails at an internet café after bouncing at the Dom Cathedral in Cologne, Germany. She wrote that she was in shock and was more upset than after the initial mastectomy. She didn’t know how to place her disappointment or emotions. She reached out to me and my sister Felicity to help her reconcile and find encouragement through this very difficult time.

I was crushed with the news. I couldn’t quite fathom it myself. I began crying for no reason and for every reason. I felt her disappointment and anguish. I didn’t know what to do, how to make sense of it, or even what to say to her. Yet, I knew that I must share something – a glimmer of hope or reassurance that all is well. But before finding that new meaning to share with her, I needed to wholly believe it myself.

I was so frustrated and my mind was searching far and wide. I mean, how can one find anything empowering in losing ¾ of the breast that was just recently reconstructed???? How fucking absurd does this sound? I was lost as to how I can best serve Kathleen in her moment of need. So I went deep within my heart and asked “What is it that I need to share with her that will now help her?”

Then it came to me. I thought of what I said to the video camera during the bounce at the Dom Cathedral that morning. Christoph was filming me and asked me a series of questions. His final question was “What is your final thought, your shout-out to Kathleen for today?”
I replied, “Hallelujah”.

As I sat there in the internet café, I thought to myself how this is not a word that I often speak in my daily life – yet it passed effortlessly through my lips as if I came through me, not from me. At that moment, I knew this is what I had to share with her and prayed that this could help her see the light…

Hallelujah for your life and that you are with us. Hallelujah that the doctor made the best decision he could at the time and took out the tissue that was not good for you to aid in the healing. Hallelujah to the fact that timing is everything and that once you have been healed and have had chemotherapy, there will be another chance to look at reconstruction of your breast. Hallelujah that your mother with you daily to help you through this difficult time. Hallelujah that a breast is not a vital organ like a heart and your heart is beating beautifully. Hallelujah for your wonderful girls that love to share each and every day with you. Hallelujah to the fact that you have a man that loves you and sees beyond your physical beauty into your inner spiritual beauty. Hallelujah that you are my sister and i am so very proud of you for your honesty, heart, courage and sensitivities. Hallelujah for all the incredible goodness and value that you bring to the world and for the tremendous difference you make not just to my life – but to every person you touch. Hallelujah for all the love and support you have from family, friends and [world] community. Hallelujah that God is in your life to carry you in this moment.

For the remainder of the day, I continued to reflect on the wide range of emotions and experiences I had. It was a very profound morning - I experienced synchronicity. The more I became coherent with myself, everything became so effortless. As I tuned into my heart in what the moment called for, I had a sense of knowing what I was to do.

Before going to the internet cafe to check my emails, I entered the cathedral to light a candle and pray for Kathleen. Little did I know then what news from Kathleen I was about to receive. Later in the day when I spoke to her, she was just in the middle of responding to my email. She said that what I wrote her helped her tremendously. She felt as if she had been in a dark manhole, yet now she sees the light above and is climbing towards it.

Hallelujah

2006-04-30T17:08:00.000+01:00

His and Hers

It was easy to spot Christoph when I landed in Germany with matching trampolines...

Folding trampolines are a mobile workout - the best fat burning exericise on the planet and it's so fun. With only a minute to set up, you'll be bouncing in no time. We're in the process of branding our own B4B trampolines for sale and proceeds will go to the cause- stay tuned for updates.

Going bald update - it appears that Christoph has raised over £500 so I won't be shaving my head.
Happy Bouncing...

xp

2006-04-28T23:44:00.000+01:00

TGIF

It’s Friday and the end of a long and fulfilling week. Not only has our FUNdraising family grown 400%, Christoph and I have a new addition to our family. Max Pleasure, once a stray cat, is now the purrfect companion; minimal shedding, no clawing the furniture, no messes on the oriental carpets, endless supply of cuddles and most importantly, he puts up with my dance moves and singing when I’m bouncing.

I’m off to Germany and Italy on business with Christoph. With trampolines in tow, the bouncing continues. Latest landmarks added to our tour:

2nd May: The Dom - Cologne, Germany
3rd May: The Alps
7th May: Rialto Bridge - Venice, Italy

2006-04-27T21:43:00.000+01:00

In & Out Surgery

Kathleen’s minor surgery was a success. The procedure only took about 2 hours and the doctor removed all the dead tissue (it appears that some of her stomach skin didn’t take to the reconstructed breast). She’s wrapped in an ace bandage like a mummy so she doesn’t know how it looks. The doc had to put a tube in to ease the draining, yet all this is necessary to speed up the healing of the breast so that she can commence chemotherapy in 3 to 4 weeks.

I’m planning my trip to Florida to be with Kathleen during the commencement of her chemo. The countdown of the campaign begins and we’ve got just 37 days to go and $3700 left to raise. There will be a series of bouncing events in Florida during the final leg of the tour. We’re confident that we can achieve our goal with the help of so many wonderful individuals who love stepping up in making a difference. I consider the job done and we will all have the pleasure of discovering the history we created together.

I can’t begin to tell you just how much my upcoming visit with Kathleen means to me. Every bounce I make, I do for her. When she’s weak – I focus my energy her way. This B4B tour began as a pilgrimage for her. Whilst there are parts to this campaign that have elements of creativity, fun and eccentricity, Kathleen’s breast cancer has impacted my life in a profound way. I am forever changed. I think differently now for I too have sought to find a new meaning to the effects of cancer and reflected upon my life.

In a two-day business progression workshop I facilitated this week, I realised just how much the B4B campaign has taught me. I re-assessed my values and discovered what my true life purpose is: To consistently improve the quality of my life and to help others to do the same. The question that has helped me get clarity on this subject is: Am I alive or am I living?

The greatest gift I have received is that I am increasingly living within my core in just about everything I do – personally, professionally, emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. In order to experience this quality of living, I had to learn the most fundamental life lesson which has taken 37 years to master. I am at my very best when I became who I was all along. All I needed to do is to be me.

Kathleen’s experience, my admiration and respect for her, and this campaign is a reflection of all that. Thanks to all she has taught me, I am proud to say that I am living!

xp

2006-04-26T20:18:00.000+01:00

FAQ's

Since the campaign began, we've been asked loads of great questions. I've included the most popular ones for you today. If you would like any others answered, please email us at bounce@bouncingforbreastcancer.org.

Do you really bounce 10,000 time daily?

Yes, we average 10,000 daily bounces and we use a pedometer to keep count. Some days, like the Bunny Bounce, I did 20,000 so I can have a day off. When I was too ill to bounce in New Delhi, my husband bounced on my behalf and I made up the numbers when I was fit again. The strength of this campaign is to do what it takes to hit the goal of 1 million bounces during 100 days. I've learned that the greater emotional and behavioral flexibility one lives, the greater the success.

How long does it take to bounce 10,000 times?

Average time: 1.5 hours

Where does bouncing in front of the landmarks come in?

When I kicked off this campaign, I knew the travel and work abroad commitments that I had in the coming months. Before my trip to India, I said to Kathleen, "I will bounce every day until I raise this $10,000. This is my commitment to you. I will bounce in my hotel room and heck, I'll even bounce in front of the Taj Mahal." And then it started. In each city along my travels, I decided that would bounce in front of a famous landmark and photograph it for Kathleen. As she has not travelled abroad (yet), this is a way to show her and my neices the world.

I have a trampoline at home - can I join in to help your sister and bounce for your campaign?

Absolutely. Anyone interested in joining our FUNdraising team should email me at bounce@bouncingforbreastcancer.org or telephone on 0845- 899 -1276.

2006-04-24T17:58:00.000+01:00

Thank You, John

It has been confirmed that the £46 pounds raised during the Bunny Bounce during Easter Weekend can go to our cause. Thanks John, for your support.

Spoke to Kathleen today. Though she's finding it a challenge to be immobile for a few days, she's getting on with some projects that she's wanted to do for awhile - writing letters, putting photos in albums, and cleaning of the fishtank.

To keep her spirits high, she's thinking about all the things she is going to do when she's fit and back on her feet again. Running a half marathon was amongst a long list.

love and blessings xp

2006-04-23T13:55:00.000+01:00

'You were born for this very moment'

I received an email from Kathleen this morning. I wanted to share it with you, as she has a full update on her status (many of you have been asking) and she thanks the many people who have carried her. This extends to YOU - the many people Christoph and I have met who have helped us during the campaign in donations, prayers, well wishes and overall support. You have made such an incredible difference - thank you.

The letter from Kathleen reads...

This Monday will have been six weeks from surgery and I can't tell you how better I felt especially last week. Unfortunately, I felt so much better that I challenged myself a bit too much... so I learned. Or, ugh, I am learning... the hard way... I am confined to bed or a recliner for 4 days. Possibly more unless the Dr. tells me otherwise.

The healing process is much longer than anticipated, so a new surgery has been set for this Thurs. at 10AM. He said I was about 3 weeks behind. The Dr. will take the scabs off and drain fluid etc... (is this grossing you out?). I didn't ask any more questions for the first time in my life... I just couldn't know anything else other than this procedure will take about 1.5 hours or less. Minimal discomfort.... Ha ...that is what he led me to believe about the groin surgery!!!!!

All in all this should speed up the healing procedure enough for me to have Chemo within a month.... verses about another 6 months without surgery......which leads me to say that I found my Oncologist. He was the first Dr. that examined me and said I was in no condition to start... if I had, I would have been seriously jeopardizing the original Tram Flap surgery to the point of losing the breast. So.... once I am totally healed, I will start the Chemo process.. [in about one month] I need 6 treatments in 4 months, thus every 3 weeks. He wants to pull out the strong stuff because of my age and cancer type. This was the 4th Oncologist opinion and he was the first to not only examine me but order tests; ie- heart and lung scans that will give him a base line. No other Dr. even mention or ordered such tests. ALSO and this is the biggie...... He understands and recongnizes my world of natural support for the immune system. Not only this.....he is knowledgeable of what supplements I am currently taking and feels that it would provide me with better energy and has seen studies that in NO way would my supplements interfere with his program! This was very contrary to ALL other opinions and of those other opinions no one was interested in reading reports proving otherwise or open for discussion.

I feel very confident in going through this process especially now. God has given me the peace of mind and provision with the right people.

The only negative side to this whole situation is that my original schedule has been delayed by about one month. But that is it. Once I start Chemo after my first treatment, I will be able to manage work and therapy just fine [Chemo treatment on Friday and in bed Fri, Sat and Sun, then back to work] . In addition, after Chemo.. I will be starting a Herceptin treatment for one year-- no fatigue or side effects! Since I have a 30% margin of potential recurrence/more cancer in other areas [70% margin of excellent health], Herceptin combined with Chemo will take that 30% margin and reduce it to 1.5% concern-- that's almost 100% cancer free instead of the 70% mentioned above. So, because I am young I will go through this.

originally, I did not think that my margins would be that wide [30%]. This is the first Dr. that showed me the %'s. Thus.. the program will begin, once healing from surgery is complete.

This whole process has been very trying. The greatest gift I have received is that I didn't feel like I could do this and you all held me up and carried me when I couldn't myself.... As I told my Dr Cox from the first surgery.... 'You were born for this very moment' as I believe you all were, as well, to aid in carrying me.
;-) thanks for being here....

Love,
Kathleen

2006-04-22T13:03:00.000+01:00

Going Bald - Battle of the Sexes

Kathleen has cut her hair short so that when she loses it during chemo, it won't be a shock. So that Kathleen doesn't have to experience this on her own, I have decided to shave my head completely. This I do to show her my solidarity and to raise money to meet the 10K by end of May. Don't get me wrong, I love my hair especially now that it's grown long again and surviving the in-between funky stages.

I am currently exploring options on the best way to open up the auction and will keep you posted. In the meantime, my husband Christoph, has announced that he may open another auction to bid against me. Like most men, he loves long hair - mine, in particular.

The battle of the sexes has begun.

xp

2006-04-21T23:53:00.000+01:00

Feeling Helpless

After speaking to Kathleen today I felt frustrated for the first time since I found out about her breast cancer. Frustrated that her breast isn't healing from the surgery. I even felt a bit angry. "Damn it" I thought to myself, "Why has it started bleeding again? What is causing it to bleed?"

Today was also the first day that I experienced Kathleen's sensitivities and range of emotions from appreciation to stubborness. I love her dearly and embrace what she's going through. I understand she doesn't want to go to the emergency room to get it checked out because she isn't sure they have dealt with this kind of thing before. Yet, I shared that the strength of her journey so far is that the right people have shown up at the right times. Not for one moment do I doubt her judgement and approach. She has my support and I encourage her to do what she feels is best for herself. As a loving sister, I will not always tell her what she wants to hear, though I will be honest with her if I see there may be other ways to reach her outcome.

Today, I felt helpless. Today, I just wanted to be with her rather than bouncing on the other side of the Atlantic.

I was deep in thought. Doing what we've always done will get us what what we've always gotten. Trusting, accepting help from others and believing in possibility vs. doubt is key to progress. Change will always happen; progress is a choice.

Today, I felt more, learned more and grew more. These are of the gifts of learning I received today.

love and blessing to all xp

2006-04-19T23:32:00.000+01:00

Day 55 – 550,053 bounces

It just dawned on me that Saturday (the bunny bounce) marked the 50th day – half way through this personal campaign in support of Kathleen and her kids. Looking back, I’m amazed at how far we’ve come:

Raised just over $6200, through donations from all over the world
Bounced in 3 countries India, France and UK- totalling 550, 053 bounces
Grown a team of FUNdraisers
Found fantastic sponsors
Run a blog
Launched our website www.bouncingforbreastcancer.org
Created an on-line shop with novelty tshirts and merchandise
Caught press attention to an initial circulation of 1.5 million

Not bad at all. However, the heart of this campaign- THE PURPOSE of why we’re here in the first place lies with Kathleen’s experience with breast cancer. Her daily life and how far she’s come:

Had a single mastectomy and reconstruction
Confirmed that she had stage 2 cancer and lymph nodes were clear
Been scheduled for minor surgery to help her healing of skin
Come to terms with the fact she’ll need chemo. As of recent, she learned that due to the size of the cysts that were removed, they can only assume cancerous cells exist elsewhere in her body. Therefore, she is urged to proceed with chemo ASAP.
Become even closer to her daughter and family
Received more love, blessings and prayers from around the world that ever in her life.
Found new meaning in her life and her way forward

Day 55 and I’ve not seen Kathleen yet, though we speak very frequently. I will be with her in mid May, after her chemo begins. I cannot begin to express the emotions I have regarding our visit. Being far away geographically, this almost feels unreal. Yet it’s very real, I know. For some reason, seeing her will make it all the more real for me.

If anyone following this story and has contacts with airlines, I am looking for a sponsor to bring me home to my sister.

With love and blessings xp

2006-04-17T09:50:00.000+01:00

Back to the Operating Room

Kathleen requires minor surgery. There are areas of her skin on the breast that aren't healing well and in order to speed up the recovery process, the will need to remove these areas. I never imagined all the things that could potentially go astray or slow matters down before commencing chemotherapy. Kathleen is taking this all in stride and with optimism, for she knows it will lead her to the outcome: full recovery.

How true this is in life; so much can go wrong and yet so much can go right. It's a matter of how we look at it. My dear friend, Kathleen Marcove, wrote an article just before Christmas 2005 that addresses this very subject. I was so moved that I want to share it with you.

The Perfect Gift

As I was putting together my Christmas shopping list I began to think about the many gifts I have received in my life. Not the material gifts, but the treasured experiences that have shaped me. There are the obvious ones—my first true love, my wedding day, the birth of my children. I received these with an open heart and will always attach great meaning and significance to them. But perhaps the most valuable gifts were the ones I did not want—the sudden death of my mother, the big job I did not get, the feeling of rejection by a friend. These were things I found difficult to accept as gifts. I have had a hard time finding the proper place they hold in my life. At times these experiences have seemed to completely define me, at other times it is as if they never happened at all.

I realize it is a kin to the Christmas morning when you asked for a diamond-studded watch, but Santa brought a food processor instead. You feel disappointed because it was not the beautiful thing you wanted. Eventually, when you get over the shock, you try to use the food processor but make mistakes with it. You even cut yourself on the blade at times. But over the years you begin to understand how to use it to make things better, and eventually you find a comfortable and appropriate place to store it in your life—not in the middle of the dining room, and not in the garage. But in a place ready to strengthen you when you need it and to give you comfort knowing that if you can see that unwanted gift of your life as a blessing to create passion and beauty for yourself and others, you can do anything.

In his classic work Man’s Search For Meaning, Victor Frankel, reflecting on his experience in a Nazi concentration camp, writes that “everything can be taken from a man but the last of the human freedoms: to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances.” We all have that freedom of choice every moment of our lives. Be conscious of the attitude you choose to adopt towards all that life gives you—the thing you don’t want may just be the most meaningful experience of your life, the perfect gift.

love and blessings, xp

2006-04-16T12:34:00.000+01:00

Happy Bunny

It's official, I've gone completely mad for this campaign! Never thought I'd find myself bouncing in a bunny costume 20,000 times over 4 hours in front of thousands of passers-by on a bank holiday weekend. But that's what I love about life - EVERYTHING is possible when we put our minds to it.

I must admit I was a bit nervous as I was walking towards the South Bank to an area next to the London Eye. I felt a bit ridiculous and I thought to myself, "What the hell am I doing?". Then, I changed my focus. It's not about me afterall, it's about my sister being able to pay her mortgage and utilities. It's about her having proper nutrition - organic veggies and fruits to help speed up her recovery. It's about my nieces being supported during this time. It's about the petrol it costs to drive 6 hours round trip to see her doctors once a week. It's about the seemingly small incremental medical costs that mount up to hundreds of dollars within a day, a week or a month. It's clearly not about me afterall. So with courage hand in hand with love, I was committed to complete what I set out to do.

Twenty minutes into the bounce amidst many entertained supporters, security approached us and announced that I was not permitted there. After the weeks of planning and mustering up super hero inner strength, there was no way I was going to hang up my bunny ears and fold up my trampoline without exploring what ways we could stay that would be a win-win for everybody. Ten minutes later, the situation was resolved based on one condition; we could not accept money for our cause. I gave them my word and I was just so grateful that they allowed us to stay until I completed 20,000 bounces - my personal goal. We never turned away so much money in our life - an estimated £500. In fact, the £46 that was donated to us in the first 20 minutes will be given to the South Bank governing body so they can donate it to a charity of their cause. This sincere gesture is to establish that we have a bonafide personal campaign with heart and integrity at its core. After all, today was about having fun and raising awareness through talking to people - that's exactly what we did.

As you can imagine, the rest of the day meant even more to me. "Bless my cotton socks", I repeated as I bounced. I soaked up the smiles and support from onlookers, especially from the little children who were excited by the presence of the Easter Bunny.

Thanks to the B4B family (Christoph, Diana, and Charlotte) who were present to share enthusiasm and information about our cause. Thanks also to Felicity for the lucky socks you sent; they did the trick.

Kathleen, an invisible Easter Egg is on its way to you filled with greetings, prayers, love and well wishes.

2006-04-14T23:43:00.000+01:00

7th Heaven

Christoph and I celebrated our 7th year wedding anniversary today. We drank in the pleasures of a wonderful journey down to Poole for a sumptuous lunch at the Mansion House Restaurant. Then we meandered along the coast to take in the sites and a bounce, as one does...

When sharing what 7 years has meant to us, Christoph so eloquently said, "I'm in 7th heaven."
I couldn't agree more. Then I thought to myself, "What the heck does that expression actually mean?". So I googled it and this is what I found.

To be in 'seventh heaven' means to be enjoying the ultimate happiness. Here is its origin: the Muhammadan seventh heaven, is said to be "beyond the power of description." There each inhabitant is bigger than the whole earth and has 70,000 tongues that speak 70,000 languages...all forever chanting the praises of Allah. In the Islamic concept of heaven, which also prevailed among the Jews, one goes after death to the heaven he has earned on earth, and the seventh heaven, ruled by Abraham, is the ultimate one, a region of pure light lying above the other six, the heaven of heavens. - Carol Pozefsky, Etymology expert

Kathleen, we enjoyed sharing our special anniversary with you. Also, a very special thanks to our new friend Trevor Andrews for taking such good care of us and being a damn good photographer!!!

An abundance of love and blessings to all. xx p+c

2006-04-13T22:27:00.000+01:00

The Little Wins

I could hear the excitemet in Kathleen's voice when I called so she could share her big news. Today marked the first time she could roll over in bed all by herself since her operation. Hip, Hip, Hurray!!!!

It's the little wins that lead us to the BIG wins.

2006-04-11T12:42:00.000+01:00

WOW

Remember a time when you felt totally WOW'd? When you were just so amazed at how far you've come, how proud you feel, how fulfilled you are and just how damn lucky you are to be alive to experience the love, laughter and support of family, friends, colleagues, strangers and even yourself?

Well, I'm having one of those days -which is why my fingers are tapping a marathon. Thanks in advance for taking time to read my record breaking entry. I am beyond words as to how grateful I am to everyone, especially Kathleen. I pray for thanks each day that her surgery was a success, that she had only two stage cancer, that they found no cancer in her lymph nodes and most importantly, that her future looks bright.

I embrace each conversation with Kathleen. I admire how she shares with me - with all of you - her precious journey. How her recovery is coming along, where her energy levels are, how the girls and her mom are, who has made a difference in her life, where she lives emotionally, the other cancer victims she has spoken to who have it much worse, and how she has grown from this experience. She has been an incredible leader through this and has led herself from a victim of breast cancer to a place of empowerment in her recovery. She is currently researching oncology and assessing the best route for her post cancer treatment. She does this by reading everything she can get her hands on so that she can make educated decisions on what's right for her. Although they expected her surgical areas and blood tests to be better than they currently are, everything is moving forward and looking good. As of last Friday, she is tube free... no longer the bionic woman (or boobonic woman as I called her ).

Each day, there are a number of stories to share and sometimes I'm stumped to choose just one so that my daily blog entry doesn't turn into some lengthy Tolstoy book. In those times, I turn inwards towards my heart to know what message I need to share that on that particular day.

And today is no exception. This one is a WOW...

One of many touching stories I've not yet shared with you is one about her 8 year old daughter, Christina. At the time that Kathleen had returned from the hospital, Christina had a contagiuos cold and was not able to see Kathleen until she was better. They hadn't seen each other in over 10 days and naturally, this was most heart-renching for both of them. I was talking to Kathleen the day Christina finally came home and asked how great it must have felt to have finally hugged her daughter. She explained that although Christina was home, they were not permitted to come into physical contact with each other until her cold was gone for good. So she taught Christina how to hug with her eyes. Several times a day, they would hug with their eyes until a bear hug was possible. WOW- how cool it is to hug with your eyes! I imagined how that would feel and what that would look like. Then, I imagined Kathleen sitting there on the end of the phone and tried hugging with my ears. It was then, Ibegan to embrace every word she spoke and even her silence. Thank you Kathleen and Christina for teaching us a new way of loving.

During challenging moments, it has been vitally important to maintain an element of fun in the campaign as well - as it reflects the personality of both Kathleen and myself. Even though I was very upset to hear about Kathleen's breast cancer and have experienced low days myself, I have committed to find a way to create a campaign that is uplifting and brings new meaning to life. Where we live emotionally affects the state of our health and our quality of life. How great is it for Kathleen that she can now choose to create a compelling future by choosing to master her emotions. And if there is one thing that is guaranteed as an instant mood uplifter - bouncing on a trampoline!!!!

In just 6.5 weeks, I've raised over $6100. I am moved to tears and so very thankful for everyone who has come forward to support this heartfelt and purposeful campaign by sending prayers to Kathleen and the family, contributing their time and talents, stepping up as sponsors, and donating funds. Thanks also to the network that is being created through this blog or from individuals passing this story on to others. I'd especially like to acknowledge my dear friend, Mark Pendell, for his love, enthusiastic support and great ideas moving forward. Through him, several people have come forward over the weekend to donate funds and provide contacts in specialist areas for Kathleen and the campaign.

On behalf of Kathleen and myself, a WOW thank you to one and all. May your day be filled with blessings. x

2006-04-10T20:51:00.000+01:00

Daddy Dearest

Dad and his wife, Fran are visiting Kathleen and the kids. After having spoken to each of them over the past few months, I know in my heart this is a long awaited and much deserved reunion. It brings me to tears knowing what healing is being done at this very moment.

As both a witness and an insider to someone whose family is affected by breast cancer, it's been fascinating for me to observe how each person reacts differently. Times like these bring anxious moments, sad moments, joyous moments , grateful moments and awkward moments too. I know this has mainly affected the women in my family, as it's a women's disease. However, I have observed our Dad from a distance. All he wants is the best for Kathleen - the best love, the best care and attention that he and anyone can give.

It's during times like these that Daddies just want to take over to protect their little girl, regardless of her age. That they too feel pain and worry, not knowing what is called for or what to do. They know this is a woman thing and therefore, want to leave the requisite amount of space for the woman out of respect.

I have observed this in my own family. At times, I sense where there may have easily been misunderstandings, confusion or hurt feelings all because people have the best intentions out of love. It's in times like these that we must remember that there are no right and wrong things to do, as long as one acts from the heart.

As the French poet and writer, Antoine St. Exupery, famously wrote in The Little Prince, "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."

What is essential IS invisible to the eye; the best of the best shines though if we see with our hearts.

I love you Kathleen, Dad and the rest of our family. I am proud and encouraged by all of your courage, love, strength, patience, forgiveness and understanding.

2006-04-08T12:24:00.000+01:00

April in Paris

Salut tout le monde!!! This is my favorite landmark of all times. And even more special that we've Bounced for Boobs here. Due to the marathon tomorrow, we thought it best to do our deed today.

And what a great start to the day it was. Starting off at 6:30am, we saw Paris come alive. The sun rising, the people stirring, the smell of fresh croissants from the patisseries fill the air. It was breathtaking. It was a dream come true.

I love this city! I love you Kathleen!!!

2006-04-07T02:13:00.000+01:00

Step'n Up

It's just gone 2am. We're now in Paris and just bounces away from the Eiffel Tower...

We've stepped up a notch in the campaign, surpassing our half way point - raising over $5500 in just 6 weeks. In addition, we've broadened the communication circle and we have accepted to do an exclusive with a magazine. This means that potentionally over 1 million people will learn about this story and be inspired, entertained or moved to join our campaign family.

This is all well received news to Kathleen. I am pleased to report that she is making good and steady progress. She has an appointment with a doctor tomorrow so I'll be able to share even more news on Saturday. I do know that her chemo has been delayed slightly as she is not healing as fast as they expected. This is giving her an opportunity to research more about the treatments they propose she has and to find alternative ways to healing. Overall, things are looking up.

Bonne Nuit xx

2006-04-06T22:33:00.000+01:00

For the record

I've been informed by a few people saying they saw our Bouncing for Breast Cancer Campaign at the Vitality show in London over last weekend. We were not there, however, Breast Cancer Care were. They joined the bouncing bandwagon and posted a flip chart sign next to a trampoline, saying 'Bounce' for Breast Cancer. Well done for them for having raised money to help support others.

For all of you following this story and for the record, be rest assured that our campaign is the original Bouncing for Breast Cancer, as it's based on a very personal story about my sister Kathleen and my pledge to bounce 10,000 a day to raise $10K. We are different from a charity in that ALL the proceeds go to my sister and not on overhead costs or advertising.

Rise and shine to all in your greatness.

2006-04-04T23:56:00.000+01:00

Riding the wave of energy

As I was bouncing today, I reflected about energy and how it falls in line with the cycles of life. With the seasons. With the universe.

How do I listen to my energy? What is it saying today?

Like a surfer, who paddles out to sea to catch the big wave, he waits patiently - treading water- until the big wave comes. What is the purpose when he treads water? Is it to preserve his own energy until the time is right to ride the wave of the universal energy? He senses when it's time. Then he mounts his board and takes the ride of his life.

If we were to ride the waves all the time, we wouldn't have time to reflect on how well we did; how to improve our own style, what conditions NOT to ride in, and how to appreciate the beauty and power of stillness.

As soon as I tuned into my own energy in relation with that of the universe - so much manifested. I thought of someone and they'd call. Something I had been working on for a while, yielded great and immediate results. I had an abundance of clarity.

Another wave is coming. Ready. Set. Go...

2006-04-03T16:15:00.000+01:00

Bounce Tour Update for April

9th April- Bouncing at Tour Eiffel in Paris, France at 8am
14th April - To be confirmed
15th April - Easter Bunny bounces on south bank, near London Eye, 12noon-2pm

*** Stay tuned for updates on which cities & landmarks the B4B campaign goes to in May***

We've raised nearly $5,000 in 5 weeks! Thanks to everyone for your endless support and encouragement. This campaign's success could not be created without you, your stories, your heart, your prayers and tremendous contribution. You make a significant difference to me, my sister Kathleen, our families, and the world community.

priscilla x