This was the 8th year that I’ve participated in the Run for the Cure. Again this year I set my goal high for fundraising and I did well. I managed to raise $5,345, almost a thousand came in the last three days!! Thanks to all of you for your support! A group of my friends came out and got soaked in the rain. It was pouring so I wasn’t able to actually do the 1km, even in my wheel chair. I didn’t want to risk getting wet, cold and sick. My friend Cindy and her daughter Amber made beautiful signs that said, “Feather’s Flock”. We got lots of great pictures and we were all in pink. All the friends of Feather wore their, “Birds of a Feather Fighting together” T-shirts.(When I stopped by abc restaurant, they were all wearing my pink T-shirts as well, it was very touching)
My new friend Lori shared her story on the stage at the run. She is 36, newly married, and she’s got stage 4 breast cancer. Lori has been fighting for about 3 years. Her lungs and liver are full of metestatic breast cancer, please think of her in your prayers. I hope to connect with her more in the new future.
I thank God for all of my friends. I had friends come out today that I’ve known for 30 years and others for only a couple weeks. Not to leave out my Mom who’s known me the longest of all The support was overwhelming and lovely. I managed not to cry all day, but I chocked up many times. I participated in the survivor walk and got a special pink survivor T-shirt. I also got a big pink umbrella. I managed to stay warm, just as my hands were getting cold a kind woman gave me her gloves to keep. I had to sit down and rest a lot, my umbrella doubled as a cane and by the end the wheelchair came in very handy.
Over the past 4 years I’ve raised over $14,000 for Breast cancer research, treatment, diagnosis and awareness. It is my hope and prayer that this will literally pay off for me and that my cancer will be cured!! Even though my girls didn’t last long at the run today, they got to cold (they wouldn’t keep their mittens on) , Chris ended up taking them home early but we did get some great photos. By their small participation today, it gave me hope that theirs will be a future without breast cancer.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Hmmmmm.....
Walking down town Vancouver a couple days ago I came across a printed statment on a board that made me stop and think. It said, " Be Kind...Everyone has their own battle to fight." For me it's my cancer...for others it may something else. But what every their battle, lesser or greater in my eyes, it's still their battle. They may be discouraged, not knowing if their battle is to be won or maybe lost. Wheather it's a battle with depression, addiction, abuse, childhood sexual abuse, financial bankrupcy, feelings of failure, suicidal thoughts, eating disorder, loneliness, seperation, divorce, health issues, death of a loved one, self-loathing etc. What ever their battle is, it is their own, it's what they know, it's their personal experience, that deserves to be respected. I believe and have for most of my life, but only more so now...that everyone I met has something to offer me. By their workds of their presence, there is something I can learn from them and take from their life experience. I also believe that I also am worth the same. Please take the time to be kind, even if it's a street person who deserves to be looked in the eye, told God Bless you, perhaps even needs some money for drugs so they can cope with their day, until such time they have the strength to find a healthier coping machanism. Don't we all need encourgement to get through our personal battles.
At this moment I'm struggling with issues about my weight, perhaps it's easier to think about that than my cancer. Once chemo's over it's soemthing I can focus on beating. I tipped the scales at 201 lbs yesterday. Not a great momnet for me. But a battle I will win in the new year.
Be kind and think about your own battles and the battles of others, let's be warriors for each other!!
At this moment I'm struggling with issues about my weight, perhaps it's easier to think about that than my cancer. Once chemo's over it's soemthing I can focus on beating. I tipped the scales at 201 lbs yesterday. Not a great momnet for me. But a battle I will win in the new year.
Be kind and think about your own battles and the battles of others, let's be warriors for each other!!
Not YET!
The babysitter was washing Carmelle's hair at bathtime the other night, and as she started taking out her ponytails she said, "Hold still Carmlle, I'm just going to take your hair out." Carmelle replyed, NO not yet, My hair doesn't come out until I'm a big lady like Mommy!"
I'm sure she'd look super sute with a bald head, just like her Mommy does:) But I hope and pray she'll never have it as a her reality. I'm loving watching my girls hair grow nice and long:)
I'm sure she'd look super sute with a bald head, just like her Mommy does:) But I hope and pray she'll never have it as a her reality. I'm loving watching my girls hair grow nice and long:)
BC Christian Info news
Hey, check out October's issue of BC Christian info news, I'm on the front page. Apparently they used the great picture of the girls painting my bald head. Go get a copy and share it! I havent' seen it yet but I'm very touched:)
The Janz Family Benefit Concert ( warning, this a long one:)!)
Many people have contacted me wondering how the benefit concert went. I had not written yet because it took awhile to reconcile all of the numbers. But now everything has been counted and balanced. I’m happy to report that we met the goal we set, which was to raise $10,000 for our family. Not all the money was raised the night of the concert, we had some very generous donaters come forward before the event. In fact we had $6050.00 come in before the night even started! The most exciting part of that is that most it came from only 2 sources. A dear friend from back to my night school days, Jill and her Husband Scott donated $1,000! They felt that God laid it on their hearts to help in this way and we are so grateful for their act of obedience. Then we had our socks blown off when two sisters contacted us and wanted to financially bless us. They had heard me speak 5 years ago when one of them was going through her own battle with breast cancer. They also have been very encouraged and uplifted by Chris’s song “Found myself in you”, played daily on Praise 106.5fm. As a result, when they heard about our needs, they stepped up in a big way. When we received their email, we wept. It was the end of a very difficult week for us, with Chris being turned away at the border and losing out on $3,000 very needed income. I had peace that some how God would provide, but I just didn’t know how. These women were going to come to our fundraiser, but they felt we needed the money sooner. So they showed up to hear Chris sing at Northview Church’s HomeComing, and at the end of Chris’s set they came up to me and handed us a cheque for $5,000!! I cried, my Mom cried, Chris composed himself and there were lots of hugs. It was so great to meet Charlene and Jeanine, they were an answer to prayer, especially since our mortgage was due the next day and we were over drawn almost $2,000 in our account. This amount covered it all and then some. We got to do a big grocery shopping trip at Costco and stocked up on a lot of groceries that will last us a long while. What a relief it is to me and my family to not be caring around a financial burden. Financial stress is never easy, but especially not when you are faced in a health crisis at the same time.
Though the Benefit concert was a huge success in so many ways, it ended up that we didn’t sell enough tickets to cover the cost of the night. We were close but a few more people coming out sure would have helped. We were a little disappointed that, many people who said they would come and pay at the door, didn’t make it out. Having said that, we were so happy to see and visit with all the people there. We felt so loved, supported and bless. Those that came were blown away by the show. They were so impressed with Kelsey, Colin and Chris’s performances. They rocked and gave the best performances of their careers, as far as I’m concerned If you didn’t make it you sure missed out, to bad. Maybe next year? We are thinking of doing something very similar in a year, and hopefully it won’t be because we need the money. Lord willing I will be well on the mend and back at work. What I want is to raise some money for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and also find a much needing family, who is our similar situation, that we can help out. So think about it now and we’ll keep you posted.
Thankfully for us, there were many donations that came the night of the concert that covered the costs and then so much more. We had one cheque come in the night for $1,000, friends that have already been so generous with us. Also another for $600 from someone who couldn’t make it to the concert but wanted to give, he was my summer camp director through out my childhood at Camp Squeah. We also had a couple donations for $500 each, one from someone I’ve only kind of met. We were overwhelmed with people’s generosity and felt very blessed. We couldn’t believe how many people donated time, energy, resources and supplies to make the night such and success and such a professional show.
Thank-you’s go out to:
Firstly we must thank MICHEAL WIPF/ Five Foot Six Productions for doing all the leg work, organizing etc for us. He pulled off a fantastic and professional event. And made my vision of the night come true and went above and beyond!! The final touch was him presenting me with a tear jerking painting of me and my girls, if you haven’t see the photo of them painting my head it was taken from that portrait. The painting now hangs by my bed and was crafted by BECCA GIBBONS. I must share with you an email I received by this gifted artist. It has given me a beautiful reflection on my life that I hold dear to my heart and always will. I must share part of it with you.
Dear Feather,
Although I have never met you, I must admit that having spent the last week or so staring into your face as I painted has been an incredibly profound and impacting experience for me. You have changed me. When Mike commissioned me to do this piece he just briefly explained to me what the concert was about and why he wanted this piece done. It seemed fairly straight forward and so I went to work on it. Suddenly, however, your name and face started popping up in the newspaper and from people, who knew nothing about my painting, mentioning you. I began to look more into your story and learn more about you and this project became so deeply meaningful to me that every time I would work on it I would cry. I too, am a mother of two children with a musician husband and although the daily hardships that you conquer are much more substantial then I could ever comprehend I really found myself relating to you. What I appreciate about what I have read about you is that you are a person who is inhaling life with every breath. What I have learned from you is to embrace moments, welcome life experiences, accept challenges as opportunities to grow, savour the gift of everyday, allow yourself to honestly admit what sucks, cherish those you love and to not lose your identity under the guise of a physical aliment. I have been trying to apply these things to my own life as I choose to laugh off situations with my kids which I would normally find frustrating or as I very intentionally love on my husband a little longer when he goes out the door. You have given me a gift without doing anything more then just being a truly remarkable person. Thank you.
Both my daughter, Bella (3), and I are sad that this painting is over. She likes to sit next to me and pretend to paint and she wants me to shave off my hair so that she can paint on my head just like the girls in the picture. I am sad because although I am pleased with the final painting, it didn't nearly reflect as much radiance that you and your girls actually emitted... I suppose that's the difference having me as the artist as apposed to God as the artist :)
All of that being said, please know that you and your family are in our prayers.
With much gratitude,
Becca
Additional Thanks to:
Marika- Intermission entertainment
Western Rubber Group- Mike Roberge and Mike McIntosh
Sapphire Sound- Harold Weins
Mt. Lehman Liquor Store and Lounge- Mr. Paul Esposito Sr. and Sons Frank and Paul Jr.
Perfect Tan- Lisa and Merv Byers
abc Restaurant/ Abbotsford- Terry and Blanche Dawes
Kamda Chiropractic- Tony Hiebert
Best Western Hotel/ Abbotsford- Mebs Tejpar
Jacquie Claggett Mortgage Broker
Rustic Soap Co.- Tonya and Sheldon Walsh
Nu-Tea Imports- Liz Bandelin
Rocky MT. Landscaping- Menno and Karla Koehoorn
Jeannine Boyd and Charlene Notman
Arbonne International- Lizzy Janz Vanderzwan
Charlene Groome
Suzanne Smith
Erin Mussolum
Mint Creative
Zaac Pick
Marika Siebert
Thanks to all the wonderful volunteers who helped out I hope I don't miss anyone:
Sherly Galpin, Lizzy Jane and her daughter Leah Vanderzwan, Caroline Byers,Cindy Best, Tracey and Jeremy Janz, Forrest and Amanda Wagner.
Special Thanks to the sound tech and lighting crew that gave of their time and talents. Thanks to Henry Wendt for staying to the bitter end to help me pack up. We all had to be out of there by midnight of we had to pay more. So because all the otehr guys were so busy getting all the gear out, I was worried but Henry came to my rescue:)
If I'm forgetting anyone I'm so sorry, just know that we know and we couldn't have done it with out you. God Bless you!! To be honest there were pople there helping that I'd never met before and didn't even recognize, what a blessing for you all!!
Media Partners:
98.3 fm STAR
OMNI. 10 TV
TOM LEE Music
Thank-you all for a night we’ll never forget.
We got fabulous pictures from the night and got it on video. I can’t wait to watch it with my girls and be able to send copies to Chris’s parent’s and sister. Chris is working on his live recording and planning to turn it into a live cd for release, with 5 new songs never before released. We hope and pray this could be another source of income for our family in the new year.
The money raised at the concert will help to get us through Christmas.
Other great news we got this week is that I got approved for CPP long term disability pension. This will pay me $1021.00 each month until I can work again. It’s only a third of what I use to earn, but it was more than we thought we could get, if any, so we are grateful!
I had my 7th chemo yesterday.( so is anything I am writing now doesn’t make much sense, it’s the chemo brain, though I’m proof reading the best I can) It takes about 24 hours for the chemo to really metabolize in the body, so I’m just now starting to really feel the effects set in. Once I’m finished writing this I’ll probably sleep until I have to wake up for the CIBC Run for the Cure tomorrow morning. If you can make it out please come!! The opening ceremonies start at 9am. Look for the sign in the stands “Feather’s Flock”, many will be wearing my “Birds of a Feather fighting together” shirts, which can be purchased at the abc restaurant at Clearbrook and Marshall Rd, in Abbotsford.
To date I have raised $4,925 for the Run for the Cure, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. My first goal was to reach $5,000, I’m so Close!!! Only $75 away. My goal I set before I even knew I had cacner again, was $12,000, to mark 12 years of being cancer free. My ultimate goal is to be the top fundraiser for all of Abbotsford! If you’d like to help me reach any of these 3 goals, donations have to be in less than 24 hours. I believe it’s possible! Anything is possible in my world If you’d like to bring a donation by our house or to the run with you tomorrow morning, or donate on-line at: www.cibcrunforthecure.com Click DONATE/ to a PARTICPIPANT/FEATHER JANZ/ run site: ABBOTSFORD
I’d be greatly touched by your support for myself, my family and for the support of breast cancer research, treatment and awareness. Tax receipts will be issued by the Canadian Breast Cancer foundation for the 2007 tax year and will arrive in the mail to you early next year.
Only one more chemo to go, after I recover from this one. I’m planning a kick-off to my chemo treatment the night before my last one on Thursday Sept 18th in Vancouver. It will be a celebration, with dinner, dancing, drinks and maybe even Kareoke!! If you are interested in joining us, let me know and I’ll fill you in on the details. I’m also planning a Halloween/End of chemo/ dress-up party at the end of my treatment, Probably a couple nights before Halloween. It’s a dress-up theme party that you’ll be expected to dress-up like something related to the medical system, cancer, breast cancer etc. Be creative, scrubs are fine, but I’d love to see some one come dress-up up like fake boobs I have a plan for my costume, it’ll be fun. Then when Radiation is done, it’ll be the New year and my 36th birthday. There, will need to be a big birthday party, no pressure The worst will be behind me at that point and the only 9 more months of Herceptin treatment ahead of me after that. ( which they tell me shouldn’t be to hard on me)
I want to have these things to look forward to, it’s very good for my coping and state of mind.
We also really hope to afford a family vacation next spring. We are thinking of doing around the girls birthdays and when I’m feeling up to it. It’ll also be our 10th wedding anniversary. I’ll be feeling much better and need a relaxing get away with my loved ones
Sorry for writing so much! There’s not much else I can handle doing physically right now.
Bed Bound by Believing in boundless Blessings,
Feather
Though the Benefit concert was a huge success in so many ways, it ended up that we didn’t sell enough tickets to cover the cost of the night. We were close but a few more people coming out sure would have helped. We were a little disappointed that, many people who said they would come and pay at the door, didn’t make it out. Having said that, we were so happy to see and visit with all the people there. We felt so loved, supported and bless. Those that came were blown away by the show. They were so impressed with Kelsey, Colin and Chris’s performances. They rocked and gave the best performances of their careers, as far as I’m concerned If you didn’t make it you sure missed out, to bad. Maybe next year? We are thinking of doing something very similar in a year, and hopefully it won’t be because we need the money. Lord willing I will be well on the mend and back at work. What I want is to raise some money for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and also find a much needing family, who is our similar situation, that we can help out. So think about it now and we’ll keep you posted.
Thankfully for us, there were many donations that came the night of the concert that covered the costs and then so much more. We had one cheque come in the night for $1,000, friends that have already been so generous with us. Also another for $600 from someone who couldn’t make it to the concert but wanted to give, he was my summer camp director through out my childhood at Camp Squeah. We also had a couple donations for $500 each, one from someone I’ve only kind of met. We were overwhelmed with people’s generosity and felt very blessed. We couldn’t believe how many people donated time, energy, resources and supplies to make the night such and success and such a professional show.
Thank-you’s go out to:
Firstly we must thank MICHEAL WIPF/ Five Foot Six Productions for doing all the leg work, organizing etc for us. He pulled off a fantastic and professional event. And made my vision of the night come true and went above and beyond!! The final touch was him presenting me with a tear jerking painting of me and my girls, if you haven’t see the photo of them painting my head it was taken from that portrait. The painting now hangs by my bed and was crafted by BECCA GIBBONS. I must share with you an email I received by this gifted artist. It has given me a beautiful reflection on my life that I hold dear to my heart and always will. I must share part of it with you.
Dear Feather,
Although I have never met you, I must admit that having spent the last week or so staring into your face as I painted has been an incredibly profound and impacting experience for me. You have changed me. When Mike commissioned me to do this piece he just briefly explained to me what the concert was about and why he wanted this piece done. It seemed fairly straight forward and so I went to work on it. Suddenly, however, your name and face started popping up in the newspaper and from people, who knew nothing about my painting, mentioning you. I began to look more into your story and learn more about you and this project became so deeply meaningful to me that every time I would work on it I would cry. I too, am a mother of two children with a musician husband and although the daily hardships that you conquer are much more substantial then I could ever comprehend I really found myself relating to you. What I appreciate about what I have read about you is that you are a person who is inhaling life with every breath. What I have learned from you is to embrace moments, welcome life experiences, accept challenges as opportunities to grow, savour the gift of everyday, allow yourself to honestly admit what sucks, cherish those you love and to not lose your identity under the guise of a physical aliment. I have been trying to apply these things to my own life as I choose to laugh off situations with my kids which I would normally find frustrating or as I very intentionally love on my husband a little longer when he goes out the door. You have given me a gift without doing anything more then just being a truly remarkable person. Thank you.
Both my daughter, Bella (3), and I are sad that this painting is over. She likes to sit next to me and pretend to paint and she wants me to shave off my hair so that she can paint on my head just like the girls in the picture. I am sad because although I am pleased with the final painting, it didn't nearly reflect as much radiance that you and your girls actually emitted... I suppose that's the difference having me as the artist as apposed to God as the artist :)
All of that being said, please know that you and your family are in our prayers.
With much gratitude,
Becca
Additional Thanks to:
Marika- Intermission entertainment
Western Rubber Group- Mike Roberge and Mike McIntosh
Sapphire Sound- Harold Weins
Mt. Lehman Liquor Store and Lounge- Mr. Paul Esposito Sr. and Sons Frank and Paul Jr.
Perfect Tan- Lisa and Merv Byers
abc Restaurant/ Abbotsford- Terry and Blanche Dawes
Kamda Chiropractic- Tony Hiebert
Best Western Hotel/ Abbotsford- Mebs Tejpar
Jacquie Claggett Mortgage Broker
Rustic Soap Co.- Tonya and Sheldon Walsh
Nu-Tea Imports- Liz Bandelin
Rocky MT. Landscaping- Menno and Karla Koehoorn
Jeannine Boyd and Charlene Notman
Arbonne International- Lizzy Janz Vanderzwan
Charlene Groome
Suzanne Smith
Erin Mussolum
Mint Creative
Zaac Pick
Marika Siebert
Thanks to all the wonderful volunteers who helped out I hope I don't miss anyone:
Sherly Galpin, Lizzy Jane and her daughter Leah Vanderzwan, Caroline Byers,Cindy Best, Tracey and Jeremy Janz, Forrest and Amanda Wagner.
Special Thanks to the sound tech and lighting crew that gave of their time and talents. Thanks to Henry Wendt for staying to the bitter end to help me pack up. We all had to be out of there by midnight of we had to pay more. So because all the otehr guys were so busy getting all the gear out, I was worried but Henry came to my rescue:)
If I'm forgetting anyone I'm so sorry, just know that we know and we couldn't have done it with out you. God Bless you!! To be honest there were pople there helping that I'd never met before and didn't even recognize, what a blessing for you all!!
Media Partners:
98.3 fm STAR
OMNI. 10 TV
TOM LEE Music
Thank-you all for a night we’ll never forget.
We got fabulous pictures from the night and got it on video. I can’t wait to watch it with my girls and be able to send copies to Chris’s parent’s and sister. Chris is working on his live recording and planning to turn it into a live cd for release, with 5 new songs never before released. We hope and pray this could be another source of income for our family in the new year.
The money raised at the concert will help to get us through Christmas.
Other great news we got this week is that I got approved for CPP long term disability pension. This will pay me $1021.00 each month until I can work again. It’s only a third of what I use to earn, but it was more than we thought we could get, if any, so we are grateful!
I had my 7th chemo yesterday.( so is anything I am writing now doesn’t make much sense, it’s the chemo brain, though I’m proof reading the best I can) It takes about 24 hours for the chemo to really metabolize in the body, so I’m just now starting to really feel the effects set in. Once I’m finished writing this I’ll probably sleep until I have to wake up for the CIBC Run for the Cure tomorrow morning. If you can make it out please come!! The opening ceremonies start at 9am. Look for the sign in the stands “Feather’s Flock”, many will be wearing my “Birds of a Feather fighting together” shirts, which can be purchased at the abc restaurant at Clearbrook and Marshall Rd, in Abbotsford.
To date I have raised $4,925 for the Run for the Cure, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. My first goal was to reach $5,000, I’m so Close!!! Only $75 away. My goal I set before I even knew I had cacner again, was $12,000, to mark 12 years of being cancer free. My ultimate goal is to be the top fundraiser for all of Abbotsford! If you’d like to help me reach any of these 3 goals, donations have to be in less than 24 hours. I believe it’s possible! Anything is possible in my world If you’d like to bring a donation by our house or to the run with you tomorrow morning, or donate on-line at: www.cibcrunforthecure.com Click DONATE/ to a PARTICPIPANT/FEATHER JANZ/ run site: ABBOTSFORD
I’d be greatly touched by your support for myself, my family and for the support of breast cancer research, treatment and awareness. Tax receipts will be issued by the Canadian Breast Cancer foundation for the 2007 tax year and will arrive in the mail to you early next year.
Only one more chemo to go, after I recover from this one. I’m planning a kick-off to my chemo treatment the night before my last one on Thursday Sept 18th in Vancouver. It will be a celebration, with dinner, dancing, drinks and maybe even Kareoke!! If you are interested in joining us, let me know and I’ll fill you in on the details. I’m also planning a Halloween/End of chemo/ dress-up party at the end of my treatment, Probably a couple nights before Halloween. It’s a dress-up theme party that you’ll be expected to dress-up like something related to the medical system, cancer, breast cancer etc. Be creative, scrubs are fine, but I’d love to see some one come dress-up up like fake boobs I have a plan for my costume, it’ll be fun. Then when Radiation is done, it’ll be the New year and my 36th birthday. There, will need to be a big birthday party, no pressure The worst will be behind me at that point and the only 9 more months of Herceptin treatment ahead of me after that. ( which they tell me shouldn’t be to hard on me)
I want to have these things to look forward to, it’s very good for my coping and state of mind.
We also really hope to afford a family vacation next spring. We are thinking of doing around the girls birthdays and when I’m feeling up to it. It’ll also be our 10th wedding anniversary. I’ll be feeling much better and need a relaxing get away with my loved ones
Sorry for writing so much! There’s not much else I can handle doing physically right now.
Bed Bound by Believing in boundless Blessings,
Feather
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Raising money for Breast Cancer Research, treatment, and awareness.
I'm raising money for breast cancer Research, Treatment, and awareness. I am participating in the CIBC Run for the Cure on Sunday, Sept 30th. I've only got a few days left to reach my fundrasing goal. I've raised $4,355 to date and I really want to raise $5,000 by Friday evening. Please help me get there, I'm so close! You can donate in-person by getting cash or cheques to me, made out to the Run for the Cure.
All donations are eligable for the tax receipt for the year 2007.
Or you can donate on-line at: www.cibcrunforthecure.com Click on to DONATE and the DONATE to a PARTICIPANT / Feather Janz/ Run site- Abbotsford BC
Thank-you for your support! My ultimate goal is to be the top fundraiser in Abbotsford, I've tried to reach this goal a couple of times, I'm hoping this is my year:)Help make this my year, tell your friends and family and together we can help fight breast cancer!!
All donations are eligable for the tax receipt for the year 2007.
Or you can donate on-line at: www.cibcrunforthecure.com Click on to DONATE and the DONATE to a PARTICIPANT / Feather Janz/ Run site- Abbotsford BC
Thank-you for your support! My ultimate goal is to be the top fundraiser in Abbotsford, I've tried to reach this goal a couple of times, I'm hoping this is my year:)Help make this my year, tell your friends and family and together we can help fight breast cancer!!
Monday, September 24, 2007
Busy Being Mom...
My therapist feels that I’ve made a break through and so do I. So now I’m going to share my break through with you. Because I haven’t been able to DO much with my girls, I’ve been feeling like a bad mother. I’m a DOER by nature, and I struggle with just BEING and having peace with that. But I’ve realized that BEING a good Mom doesn’t mean that I do all the right things. I can BE a good Mom to my girls even when I’m sick, tired, on the couch with my eyes barely open, recovering from chemo and not DOING anything! I’ve realized that you can DO good Mom with out really BEING a good Mom and you can BE and good Mom without DOING anything. Having said that, I make sure the girls needs are being met by others, because that’s what a good mother would do. Being a good Mom is much easier with a good man who’s being a great Dad! Obviously I’m not saying DO nothing for your kids, my point is that BEING a good Mom has much more to do with loving them, caring for them, connecting with them, reading them a story when the dishes are piling up in the sink and playing on an un-vaccumed floor. It’s stopping what you are DOING for a kiss, hug, piggy back ride and BEING the pet Dog crawling around the floor (that needs to be washed). I am BEING a good Mom even while I’m not the primary care giver to my children, during this season of my life. I’ve had to depend on others, and surrender to the fact that our girls are just fine, and so am I. In fact I’m even better than fine, especially since having this break through.
Another "bird's eye-view"
The following was written by a new friend, Nojo (John), who attended our Benefit Concert. I appreciated what he wrote so much, I thought you should all read it. It's a great perspective from someone who'd never heard the family's music before and just met us in person for the very first time. If you missed the concert, perhaps it'll make you not want to miss another one:) The concert event was a huge success in every way!I enjoyed myself immensely and I don't think I was the only one who did! The feedback has been great and here is a good read and a interesting look into our lives:
Breast Cancer and the World of Warcraft
This last weekend a beautiful woman who happens to have breast cancer met a bunch of her husband’s crazy friends from another country who showed up to support her. Feather is the woman, Chris is her husband, and I was one of his friends. Chris, however, had never seen most of us in real life, yet we had played together for years. We had only met online, playing World of Warcraft.
Chris is a skilled World of Warcraft player, where we know him as Esstatum. He’s part of our guild, The Twilight Folk. Night after night, we log onto our computers and play together. We talk in chat boxes and over headphones. That’s how we knew about Feather, and her cancer.
Feather’s chemotherapy prevents her from working, and her paycheck was critical to keeping their household afloat. Chris is a talented musician, as is his brother Colin (another Guildie) and sister Kelsey. Canadian health care pays for a lot, but not everything, and not the cost of extra child care and the bills that Feather’s paycheck used to cover. So Chris and his sibs put on a benefit concert.
Colin posted information about the benefit to our guild’s web site, and before you could say “WTF, dude” about a dozen of us Twilight Folk from Washington and Oregon were heading up to Abbotsford, British Columbia for the Janz Family Benefit Concert.
Chris, Colin, and Kelsey are children Paul Janz, an award winning singer/songwriter who topped the Canadian charts in the ‘70s and ‘80s. I suspect that is why, out of the hundreds that attended the benefit concert, I was not the oldest. As a 51 year old, live music lover, I’m used to being the oldest one in the house.
Kelsey led off, with a fantastic folk rock set. Kind of like Ricky Lee Jones meets Beth Orton in Sheryl Crow’s basement. We kept whispering about her accompanist. “Is that Colin?” No, it wasn’t, but Kelsey’s voice was amazing, so we shut up and listened.
Next up, Colin, known to us as the naughty dwarf priest Kierkegaard in WoW. Loud, proud, and amazing, backed by a guitarist, bassist, and Chris on the drums. If I had to compare Colin’s music, I’d say it ranged from Coldplay to Tool. Only better. The drumming was insanely intense and complex. Well, Chris pwd that drum kit, it never stood a chance. Colin’s got a great voice writes powerful material. He’s working on a CD now, I can’t wait. Entropy rocks, it was my favorite song.
Then we got to meet Feather, on a big screen video. What a beautiful woman. Feather (her parents were hippies) had breast cancer before, so having it again is so unfair. As a side note, the Best Westin in Abbortsford, where Feather used to work, put us up with a sizeable discount, since we were coming up for the benefit. She loves her community, and it comes right back.
Chris was the main act, and, backed by a bass, keyboards, and drums, he did most of the music from his CD Fly. Chris is a songwriter and balladeer with an amazing voice. On some songs he reminded me of Jackson Browne, others Sting, but mostly he was his own man. Fly’s been getting airplay in B.C., and I’m sure people where there just to hear him sing.
Afterwards, we got to party with the Janz’s and a houseload of their friends, most of whom turned out to be Twilight Folk. Everyone was so welcoming, and happy to see people they had only played online game with come out and support Chris’ family. Feather might even think his time wasting hobby has some redeeming social values. After this weekend, I certainly do.
I followed some friends out onto the porch, it was a fine night, but found that was the smoker’s lounge. Do what you want, but think about it. Just out of a cancer benefit, and people are lighting up. Too much bad irony there.
Some of the “Warcraft Widows” would ask the women in our group “you play too?” as gaming is known as a bit of a boy’s club. The funny thing was, these particular women lead our guild. They’ve not only joined the club, they’ve taken it over.
BC was wonderful. Some of us brought little ones, and we took them to the Vancouver aquarium, to see the ice-white beluga whales. Followed by a dinner at Feather and Chris’ house, with his extended family and friends. Chris cooks almost as well as he sings. And composes. And plays guitar. And drums. I wonder if he does brain surgery on the side?
All this, from playing an online game.
Breast Cancer and the World of Warcraft
This last weekend a beautiful woman who happens to have breast cancer met a bunch of her husband’s crazy friends from another country who showed up to support her. Feather is the woman, Chris is her husband, and I was one of his friends. Chris, however, had never seen most of us in real life, yet we had played together for years. We had only met online, playing World of Warcraft.
Chris is a skilled World of Warcraft player, where we know him as Esstatum. He’s part of our guild, The Twilight Folk. Night after night, we log onto our computers and play together. We talk in chat boxes and over headphones. That’s how we knew about Feather, and her cancer.
Feather’s chemotherapy prevents her from working, and her paycheck was critical to keeping their household afloat. Chris is a talented musician, as is his brother Colin (another Guildie) and sister Kelsey. Canadian health care pays for a lot, but not everything, and not the cost of extra child care and the bills that Feather’s paycheck used to cover. So Chris and his sibs put on a benefit concert.
Colin posted information about the benefit to our guild’s web site, and before you could say “WTF, dude” about a dozen of us Twilight Folk from Washington and Oregon were heading up to Abbotsford, British Columbia for the Janz Family Benefit Concert.
Chris, Colin, and Kelsey are children Paul Janz, an award winning singer/songwriter who topped the Canadian charts in the ‘70s and ‘80s. I suspect that is why, out of the hundreds that attended the benefit concert, I was not the oldest. As a 51 year old, live music lover, I’m used to being the oldest one in the house.
Kelsey led off, with a fantastic folk rock set. Kind of like Ricky Lee Jones meets Beth Orton in Sheryl Crow’s basement. We kept whispering about her accompanist. “Is that Colin?” No, it wasn’t, but Kelsey’s voice was amazing, so we shut up and listened.
Next up, Colin, known to us as the naughty dwarf priest Kierkegaard in WoW. Loud, proud, and amazing, backed by a guitarist, bassist, and Chris on the drums. If I had to compare Colin’s music, I’d say it ranged from Coldplay to Tool. Only better. The drumming was insanely intense and complex. Well, Chris pwd that drum kit, it never stood a chance. Colin’s got a great voice writes powerful material. He’s working on a CD now, I can’t wait. Entropy rocks, it was my favorite song.
Then we got to meet Feather, on a big screen video. What a beautiful woman. Feather (her parents were hippies) had breast cancer before, so having it again is so unfair. As a side note, the Best Westin in Abbortsford, where Feather used to work, put us up with a sizeable discount, since we were coming up for the benefit. She loves her community, and it comes right back.
Chris was the main act, and, backed by a bass, keyboards, and drums, he did most of the music from his CD Fly. Chris is a songwriter and balladeer with an amazing voice. On some songs he reminded me of Jackson Browne, others Sting, but mostly he was his own man. Fly’s been getting airplay in B.C., and I’m sure people where there just to hear him sing.
Afterwards, we got to party with the Janz’s and a houseload of their friends, most of whom turned out to be Twilight Folk. Everyone was so welcoming, and happy to see people they had only played online game with come out and support Chris’ family. Feather might even think his time wasting hobby has some redeeming social values. After this weekend, I certainly do.
I followed some friends out onto the porch, it was a fine night, but found that was the smoker’s lounge. Do what you want, but think about it. Just out of a cancer benefit, and people are lighting up. Too much bad irony there.
Some of the “Warcraft Widows” would ask the women in our group “you play too?” as gaming is known as a bit of a boy’s club. The funny thing was, these particular women lead our guild. They’ve not only joined the club, they’ve taken it over.
BC was wonderful. Some of us brought little ones, and we took them to the Vancouver aquarium, to see the ice-white beluga whales. Followed by a dinner at Feather and Chris’ house, with his extended family and friends. Chris cooks almost as well as he sings. And composes. And plays guitar. And drums. I wonder if he does brain surgery on the side?
All this, from playing an online game.
Four years old again...
My four year old daughter, Carmelle, is watching the movie Bambi on DVD. Bambi was the first movie I saw in the theatre, and I was her age. I remember very clearly that, 31 years ago, I was sad, shocked and devastated by the death of Bambi's mother. I wondered if I should let Carmelle watch it. Would it make her to sad? Would it make her ask questions about what she would do if I died? Would I be ready to answer such questions? Would I want to? I decided that perhaps she should watch it. So I watched much of it with her. Now at 35, I still cried when Bambi's mother died, but I realized so much more. I saw friends and family gather around Bambi, and that his life continued on very well. He had the support of family, friends and community and his father.He grew up to reach his full potential, even with out his mother to raise him. He learnt how to enjoy life, to overcome obstacles, to love and be loved and to become a true leader. As I wipe away my tears, after seeing this Disney Classic, I rested in knowing that all is well with my soul. I wonder if Mr. Disney himself realized how far reaching this deer's tale could be; that it could touch the soul of this mother.
For living life right now!
The following passage inculdes many life lessons I have learnt from having cancer 12 years ago, some that I've learnt with my recent diagnosis, some that I'm working on and some that I still have yet to learn. Enjoy, ponder and take to heart!
IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck
(written after she found out she was dying from cancer).
I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the
earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.
I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it
melted in storage.
I would have talked less and listened more.
I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was
stained, or the sofa faded.
I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried
much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the
fireplace.
I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about
his youth.
I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my
husband.
I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer
day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.
I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.
I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and
more while watching life.
I would never have bought anything just because it was practical,
wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished
every moment and reali zed that t he wonderment growing inside me was the
only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.
When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, 'Later.
Now go get washed up for dinner.' There would have been more 'I love you's'
More 'I'm sorry's.'
But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every
minute..look at it and really see it .. . live it and never give it back.
STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!!
Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing
what
Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do
love us.
IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck
(written after she found out she was dying from cancer).
I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the
earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.
I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it
melted in storage.
I would have talked less and listened more.
I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was
stained, or the sofa faded.
I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried
much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the
fireplace.
I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about
his youth.
I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my
husband.
I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer
day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.
I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.
I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and
more while watching life.
I would never have bought anything just because it was practical,
wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished
every moment and reali zed that t he wonderment growing inside me was the
only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.
When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, 'Later.
Now go get washed up for dinner.' There would have been more 'I love you's'
More 'I'm sorry's.'
But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every
minute..look at it and really see it .. . live it and never give it back.
STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!!
Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing
what
Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do
love us.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Being old and growing old sounds wonderful to me!
I’m finding it hard to sympathize with elderly folks who aren’t well and are struggling with health issues. I feel like, “What I would give to be 70 with health problems!” That’s twice my age! I can only hope and pray that I get to be 70 with health problems one day. When I see old folks walking around, I feel envious of their age and I yearn to be like them. I look at my wrinkles with a new found admiration. (not that I’ll stop using my anti-aging cream, www,featherjanz.myarbonne.com) I find myself missing my youth less and longing for the aging process. When people around me complain about how they are feeling, that they are under the weather, I feel like smacking them upside the head! I don’t have much to lend out emotionally these days, my emotional journey is all I can take for now. Thoughts of death loom over me as I fight to carry on through each day, living my life the only way I know how. Mostly I keep a smile on my face and joy in my heart, enjoying my life to the full. But this doesn’t change the thoughts that don’t really ever seem to leave. We are all going to die some time, but for me and others in my similar situation the reality is much more in the fore front. I don’t cry much, I don’t act very emotional much, but I do feel. I feel very deeply most of the time. This is a very draining activity. I find my energy is low, and perhaps somewhat due to this factor. I’m certainly not in denial, I’m well aware of my reality! I’m sorry if I don’t want to hear about your ills, give me some time. Please don’t complain about feeling, looking or being old around me. Being old and growing old sounds wonderful to me! Bring it on!
Monday, September 17, 2007
Stumbling and fumbling along.
I find myself stumbling and fumbling along with physical weakness, and it builds up frustration in me. I cry out inside,"I'm not weak, I'm strong!", as my legs almost give out beneath me. Do I cave into the weakness or do I fight through it? I do neither, instead I pause for a moment, regain my strength and carry on. I do this several times a day, but as the days past chemo grow greater, the times I pause lessen. And then I start all over again. Only two more to go, then the end will be closer in sight.
From the book Blindsided:
"I must rise above the culture of perfection and remember that I can be even if I can no longer do. I am learning to acknowledge weakness, accept assistance, and discover new forms of self-definition."
"I cannot allow myself to be held captive by old dreams"
"Dealing with challenges to health is a great ally in nurturing changes in priority."
Hmmmmmmmm..........
From the book Blindsided:
"I must rise above the culture of perfection and remember that I can be even if I can no longer do. I am learning to acknowledge weakness, accept assistance, and discover new forms of self-definition."
"I cannot allow myself to be held captive by old dreams"
"Dealing with challenges to health is a great ally in nurturing changes in priority."
Hmmmmmmmm..........
Sunday, September 16, 2007
I've joined a new club!
I joined a new club without even knowing it...it's called the BALD club!
Much like the VW club I was in for many years, VW drivers wave and nod to each other when they pass on the road.(As I've heard motorcycle drivers also do) I've discovered that bald folks do the same thing in passing. Often being bald men they nod, smile, perhaps give a little tap and rub on their bald top, as they pass by. Some even comment on my great look:) This has given me more confidence to go out,au natrual,and to enjoy my "rock-star" look, as my friend Lizzy calls it!
Much like the VW club I was in for many years, VW drivers wave and nod to each other when they pass on the road.(As I've heard motorcycle drivers also do) I've discovered that bald folks do the same thing in passing. Often being bald men they nod, smile, perhaps give a little tap and rub on their bald top, as they pass by. Some even comment on my great look:) This has given me more confidence to go out,au natrual,and to enjoy my "rock-star" look, as my friend Lizzy calls it!
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Lifting my life above illness!
I'm reading a book called, "Blindsided", "Lifting a life above illness", A reluctant Memoir, By: Richard M. Cohen. Mr. Cohen was diagnosis with MS at 25 years old and colon cancer, with a reoccurance later in his 50's. He is the husband of TV personality, Meredith Viera, and father to three children. One quote from his book that really spoke into my life was this:
"A child's laughter goes a long way toward maintaining perspective about the future and identifying what is important in the life of a family. Kids define a family's culture, steering the coping process without true knowledge of the journey being undertaken. Their influence is almost mystical.This is truth about any family on this earth, thouhg of course,I see mine as special."
"A child's laughter goes a long way toward maintaining perspective about the future and identifying what is important in the life of a family. Kids define a family's culture, steering the coping process without true knowledge of the journey being undertaken. Their influence is almost mystical.This is truth about any family on this earth, thouhg of course,I see mine as special."
Miracle or no miracle, it's still a miracle!
I wanted to share the following story with you, as it has reinforced my confidence that my death won't be a mistake whenever it is. Even if I pass away prematurely, I don't believe that means a miracle didn't happen. I believe the miracle of my life, was my life it's self. The very fact that I can to be, is the miracle. I'm so grateful to have my life, that lossing it one day seems less important than living each day for the miracle that it is. Having said that, I won't stop praying for a miracle:)
A man from Norfolk, VA called a local radio station to share this on Sept 11th, 2003. His name was Robert Matthews. These are his words: "A few weeks before Sept. 11th, my wife and I found out we were going to have our first child. She planned a trip out to California to visit her sister. On our way to the airport, we prayed that God would grant my wife a safe trip and be with her. Shortly after I said 'amen,'we both heard a loud pop and the car shook violently. I had blown out a tire. I replaced the tire as quickly as I could, but we still missed her flight. Both very upset, we drove home. I received a call from my father who was retired NYFD. He asked what my wife's flight number was, but I explained that we missed the flight. My father informed me that her flight was the one that crashed into the southern tower. I was too shocked to speak. My father also had more news for me;
he was going to help. This is not something I can just sit by for; I have to do something' I was concerned for his safety, of course, but more because he had never given his life to Christ. After a brief debate, I knew his mind was made up. Before he got off of the phone, he said, 'take good care of my grandchild' Those were the last words I ever heard my father say; he died while helping in the rescue effort. My joy that my prayer of safety for my wife had been answered quickly
became anger. I was angry at God, at my father, and at myself.
I had gone for nearly two years blaming God for taking my father away. My son would never know his grandfather, my father had never accepted Christ, and I never got to say goodbye. Then something happened. About two months ago, I was sitting at home with my wife and my son, when there was a knock on the door. I looked at my wife, but I could tell she wasn't expecting anyone. I opened the door to a couple with a small child. The man looked at me and asked if my father's name was Jake Matthews. I told him it was. He quickly grabbed my hand and said, 'I never got the chance to meet your father, but it is an honor to meet his son.' He explained to me that his wife had worked in the World Trade Center and had been caught inside after the attack. She was pregnant and had been caught under debris. He then explained that my father had been the one to find his wife and free her. My eyes welled up with tears as I thought of my father giving his life for people like this. He then said, 'There is something else you need to know.' His wife then told me that as my father worked to free her, she talked to him and led him to Christ. I began sobbing at the news. Now I know that when I get to heaven, my father will be standing beside Jesus to welcome me, and that this family would be able to thank him themselves. When their baby boy was born, they named him Jacob Matthew in honor of the man who gave his life so that mother and baby could live." This story should help us to realize two things: First - God is always in control.
We may not see the reason behind things, and we may never know this side of heaven, but God is ALWAYS in control.
A man from Norfolk, VA called a local radio station to share this on Sept 11th, 2003. His name was Robert Matthews. These are his words: "A few weeks before Sept. 11th, my wife and I found out we were going to have our first child. She planned a trip out to California to visit her sister. On our way to the airport, we prayed that God would grant my wife a safe trip and be with her. Shortly after I said 'amen,'we both heard a loud pop and the car shook violently. I had blown out a tire. I replaced the tire as quickly as I could, but we still missed her flight. Both very upset, we drove home. I received a call from my father who was retired NYFD. He asked what my wife's flight number was, but I explained that we missed the flight. My father informed me that her flight was the one that crashed into the southern tower. I was too shocked to speak. My father also had more news for me;
he was going to help. This is not something I can just sit by for; I have to do something' I was concerned for his safety, of course, but more because he had never given his life to Christ. After a brief debate, I knew his mind was made up. Before he got off of the phone, he said, 'take good care of my grandchild' Those were the last words I ever heard my father say; he died while helping in the rescue effort. My joy that my prayer of safety for my wife had been answered quickly
became anger. I was angry at God, at my father, and at myself.
I had gone for nearly two years blaming God for taking my father away. My son would never know his grandfather, my father had never accepted Christ, and I never got to say goodbye. Then something happened. About two months ago, I was sitting at home with my wife and my son, when there was a knock on the door. I looked at my wife, but I could tell she wasn't expecting anyone. I opened the door to a couple with a small child. The man looked at me and asked if my father's name was Jake Matthews. I told him it was. He quickly grabbed my hand and said, 'I never got the chance to meet your father, but it is an honor to meet his son.' He explained to me that his wife had worked in the World Trade Center and had been caught inside after the attack. She was pregnant and had been caught under debris. He then explained that my father had been the one to find his wife and free her. My eyes welled up with tears as I thought of my father giving his life for people like this. He then said, 'There is something else you need to know.' His wife then told me that as my father worked to free her, she talked to him and led him to Christ. I began sobbing at the news. Now I know that when I get to heaven, my father will be standing beside Jesus to welcome me, and that this family would be able to thank him themselves. When their baby boy was born, they named him Jacob Matthew in honor of the man who gave his life so that mother and baby could live." This story should help us to realize two things: First - God is always in control.
We may not see the reason behind things, and we may never know this side of heaven, but God is ALWAYS in control.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
See you at the Concert!!
Please come and invite all of your friends and family! We really would like this event to sell out, 750 seats to fill! There will be music for everyone!It'll be a professional production of entertainment.
Event Info Name: JANZ FAMILY BENEFIT CONCERT
Tagline: A UNIQUE CONCERT FOR A GREAT CAUSE!
Host: Five Foot Six Productions
Type: Music/Arts - Concert
Time and Place Date: Friday, September 21, 2007
Time: 7:30pm - 10:30pm
Location: Abbey Arts Centre
Street: 2329 Crescent Way
City/Town: Abbotsford, BC
View Map
Contact Info Phone: 778.882.0393
Email: mike.wipf@gmail.com
Description
Janz Family Benefit Concert
Starring Chris Janz with special guests Colin Janz of the band ESPER & Kelsey Olguin
One in nine women in British Columbia will be diagnosed with breast cancer. For Feather Janz she has been that one in nine. Now battling breast cancer for the 2nd time her family is putting on a benefit concert for her September 21st at the Abbey Arts Center in Abbotsford, BC. The Janz Family Benefit Concert aims to raise money that will aid Feather and her family as she battles this deadly disease.
TIME: 7:00pm, Concert at 7:30pm
TICKETS: $24.00 at the door or $22.00 in advance
Tickets available at Abbotsford Tom Lee Music Store Tel: 604-854-3338 or by visiting www.chrisjanz.com
www.myspace.com/chrisjanz
www.myspace.com/espyr
www.myspace.com/kelseyolguin
To learn more about Feather’s battle with breast cancer read her blog appropriately titled “Birds of a Feather” at www.birdsofafeatherfightingtogether.blogspot.com.
OR log on to her website at: www.featherjanz.com
If you'd like to support Feather in her fundraising efforts for the Abbotsford CIBC Run for the Cure please make a donation at www.cibcrunforthecure.com click on to "donate to a participant", write Feather Janz from Abbotsford. Thanks for your support! I've raised $4,000 and it's my goal to raise $12,000! Donations for the run can be made the night of the concert, just make cheques out to CIBC Run for the Cure.
Event Info Name: JANZ FAMILY BENEFIT CONCERT
Tagline: A UNIQUE CONCERT FOR A GREAT CAUSE!
Host: Five Foot Six Productions
Type: Music/Arts - Concert
Time and Place Date: Friday, September 21, 2007
Time: 7:30pm - 10:30pm
Location: Abbey Arts Centre
Street: 2329 Crescent Way
City/Town: Abbotsford, BC
View Map
Contact Info Phone: 778.882.0393
Email: mike.wipf@gmail.com
Description
Janz Family Benefit Concert
Starring Chris Janz with special guests Colin Janz of the band ESPER & Kelsey Olguin
One in nine women in British Columbia will be diagnosed with breast cancer. For Feather Janz she has been that one in nine. Now battling breast cancer for the 2nd time her family is putting on a benefit concert for her September 21st at the Abbey Arts Center in Abbotsford, BC. The Janz Family Benefit Concert aims to raise money that will aid Feather and her family as she battles this deadly disease.
TIME: 7:00pm, Concert at 7:30pm
TICKETS: $24.00 at the door or $22.00 in advance
Tickets available at Abbotsford Tom Lee Music Store Tel: 604-854-3338 or by visiting www.chrisjanz.com
www.myspace.com/chrisjanz
www.myspace.com/espyr
www.myspace.com/kelseyolguin
To learn more about Feather’s battle with breast cancer read her blog appropriately titled “Birds of a Feather” at www.birdsofafeatherfightingtogether.blogspot.com.
OR log on to her website at: www.featherjanz.com
If you'd like to support Feather in her fundraising efforts for the Abbotsford CIBC Run for the Cure please make a donation at www.cibcrunforthecure.com click on to "donate to a participant", write Feather Janz from Abbotsford. Thanks for your support! I've raised $4,000 and it's my goal to raise $12,000! Donations for the run can be made the night of the concert, just make cheques out to CIBC Run for the Cure.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
At a loss for words...
For those of you that know me well, you know I'm never at a loss for words. But my oldest, Carmelle, caused me to hesitate when she stated that she didn't want to grow up and be a lady like me. (I think I was encouarging her to eat her dinner so she would grow up like me) When I asked her why she didn't want to grow up, she said with tears in her eyes, that she didn't want to grow up and have owies on her boobies. I was stunned and didn't know what to say. She understand more than I realize. The truth is that both my girls are genetically set up to quite possibly get breast cancer one day them selves. I finally said, as I fought back my tears, that we'd would just pray that would never happen to her. I now often lay hands on my girls chests while they sleep, and I pray that God will protect their little bodies while they grow, in hopes that they will never have to experience breast cancer.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Up and down, high and low...
This describes my last few days/week. It all started with the worst headaches I’ve ever had, that just wouldn’t go away. I was getting worried that I might have a brain tumor, and this paranoia grew, as more nights passed of no sleep. Sleep deprivation can mess with your mind and cause some mental anguish of it own. The high point in those crazy few days, was going to my naturopathic/chiropractor and having him suggest some hands on prayer in addition to his treatments. The timing was, as always God’s, and four willing participants that I basically knew and just happened to be there, did the honours. I felt very blessed and sensed healing in the words and touch.
As the headaches worsened, I headed to the ER. After 5 hours, I was given a medication that offered some temporary relief, and I was able to get some sleep. A CT scan was ordered, but wouldn’t happen for another 12 days. My oncologist called me at home, after I made attempts to contact her through the cancer agency. She felt that the headaches were a side effect of the new chemo drugs and suggested another drug, which did offer even more relief. Thankfully just as she thought, by day 10, after chemo, the headaches disappeared, (just in time for me to hear INXS sing, “All of your problems, all of you fears and the world seems to disappear, disappear…”)
On Wednesday we discovered our Van just wouldn’t start and fixing it not only was a $600 bill, but meant no vehicle for two days. Not good. Stopped by the church and found a $250 gift card for groceries in our mail box…very good. Friday I took the girls to my parent’s place for Daniel’s birthday party, and Carmelle ran after the dog right past the bbq and got 2nd degree burns on her arm (another 4 hours in the ER) Not good at all!
Saturday night I got a great surprise when my cousins from Fort St. John, Shiloh and Clayton showed in Abbotsford and came to stay at our place. They are two of my Mom’s brother’s children, and he passed away 7 years ago, so we really cherish our visits with them. They are 25 and 23 and beautiful young people that I really enjoyed having around for 4 days. The girls really took to them and they were great with the girls. It was wonderful to see Carmelle and Cadence bond so quickly with their “Uncle” Clayton and “Auntie” Shiloh.
We did visits to Chilliwack to see our Grandma Butchart and Uncle John. We also visited my parent’s on the farm. We went out to a movie, and then the next day to Vancouver. We took the sky train because they and my girls had never been on the sky train. We enjoyed the afternoon with my brother Forrest and Amanda for lunch at the Old Spaghetti Factory, and walked Gas Town and Canada Place. Then we had pizza with my brother Daniel near his new place in Aldergrove. Then on Tuesday we went all the way to Vancouver Island to Butchart Gardens. My cousins had always wanted to go because we are related to the Butchart Family. It was so nice to not only get in for free, $25 per person, but we were greeted by a distant relative, David Ross, and given a welcome gift ( a book about the history of the Gardens) My mom’s maiden name is Butchart and her father was named after his uncle Robert Butchart who founded the gardens with his wife Jennie, just after the turn of the century.
From the sounds of it, my whole week was a high, but no there was a serious low as well.
Chris was to be working in Portland, Oregon for the week, for which he would have mad about $3,000. When he went to the boarder to cross Monday morning, with all his papers in order, doing the same job he’d done the year before, they refused him entry. Not only did they send him home, they first took away his keys, car, cell phone and passport. Then they finger printed him and photographed him and put him in their system for life. He was treated like a common criminal for no reason. He’d done nothing wrong, according to the free trade act, he was completely innocent. They treated him like he was guilty of something, the only thing he was guilty of, was telling the truth.
The job is lost because it was a business conference, a one time job. He turned down other jobs this week to do that one and we are out of luck.
Our four year old daughter said it best when Chris returned home from the boarder. He was preoccupied with his situation and she kept calling out to him, Daddy, Daddy!! Chris turned to her and said, “I’m sorry Carmelle, Daddy’s having a bad day.”
“I know…” she said, “You got screwed.” And with that we almost fell over laughing!
I suppose she’d heard a little more of my cell phone conversation than I realized, we were very upset. We still don’t know what we are going to do financially to get through the month. We need the benefit concert on the 21st to be even more of a success than before, so please buy tickets and tell all your friends and family to come as well!!
I leave for Vancouver tomorrow with my best friend Lizzy, for my sixth chemo, only three more to go! It’s my first one that’s 7+ hours straight. I’ve got movies set for the laptop and we’ll bring snacks. We are looking forward to some good chick time!
As the headaches worsened, I headed to the ER. After 5 hours, I was given a medication that offered some temporary relief, and I was able to get some sleep. A CT scan was ordered, but wouldn’t happen for another 12 days. My oncologist called me at home, after I made attempts to contact her through the cancer agency. She felt that the headaches were a side effect of the new chemo drugs and suggested another drug, which did offer even more relief. Thankfully just as she thought, by day 10, after chemo, the headaches disappeared, (just in time for me to hear INXS sing, “All of your problems, all of you fears and the world seems to disappear, disappear…”)
On Wednesday we discovered our Van just wouldn’t start and fixing it not only was a $600 bill, but meant no vehicle for two days. Not good. Stopped by the church and found a $250 gift card for groceries in our mail box…very good. Friday I took the girls to my parent’s place for Daniel’s birthday party, and Carmelle ran after the dog right past the bbq and got 2nd degree burns on her arm (another 4 hours in the ER) Not good at all!
Saturday night I got a great surprise when my cousins from Fort St. John, Shiloh and Clayton showed in Abbotsford and came to stay at our place. They are two of my Mom’s brother’s children, and he passed away 7 years ago, so we really cherish our visits with them. They are 25 and 23 and beautiful young people that I really enjoyed having around for 4 days. The girls really took to them and they were great with the girls. It was wonderful to see Carmelle and Cadence bond so quickly with their “Uncle” Clayton and “Auntie” Shiloh.
We did visits to Chilliwack to see our Grandma Butchart and Uncle John. We also visited my parent’s on the farm. We went out to a movie, and then the next day to Vancouver. We took the sky train because they and my girls had never been on the sky train. We enjoyed the afternoon with my brother Forrest and Amanda for lunch at the Old Spaghetti Factory, and walked Gas Town and Canada Place. Then we had pizza with my brother Daniel near his new place in Aldergrove. Then on Tuesday we went all the way to Vancouver Island to Butchart Gardens. My cousins had always wanted to go because we are related to the Butchart Family. It was so nice to not only get in for free, $25 per person, but we were greeted by a distant relative, David Ross, and given a welcome gift ( a book about the history of the Gardens) My mom’s maiden name is Butchart and her father was named after his uncle Robert Butchart who founded the gardens with his wife Jennie, just after the turn of the century.
From the sounds of it, my whole week was a high, but no there was a serious low as well.
Chris was to be working in Portland, Oregon for the week, for which he would have mad about $3,000. When he went to the boarder to cross Monday morning, with all his papers in order, doing the same job he’d done the year before, they refused him entry. Not only did they send him home, they first took away his keys, car, cell phone and passport. Then they finger printed him and photographed him and put him in their system for life. He was treated like a common criminal for no reason. He’d done nothing wrong, according to the free trade act, he was completely innocent. They treated him like he was guilty of something, the only thing he was guilty of, was telling the truth.
The job is lost because it was a business conference, a one time job. He turned down other jobs this week to do that one and we are out of luck.
Our four year old daughter said it best when Chris returned home from the boarder. He was preoccupied with his situation and she kept calling out to him, Daddy, Daddy!! Chris turned to her and said, “I’m sorry Carmelle, Daddy’s having a bad day.”
“I know…” she said, “You got screwed.” And with that we almost fell over laughing!
I suppose she’d heard a little more of my cell phone conversation than I realized, we were very upset. We still don’t know what we are going to do financially to get through the month. We need the benefit concert on the 21st to be even more of a success than before, so please buy tickets and tell all your friends and family to come as well!!
I leave for Vancouver tomorrow with my best friend Lizzy, for my sixth chemo, only three more to go! It’s my first one that’s 7+ hours straight. I’ve got movies set for the laptop and we’ll bring snacks. We are looking forward to some good chick time!
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