Team Heather

Team Heather's NEW Home

2010-01-14T11:06:00.000-08:00

From 1/14/10 on, please visit www.ourteamheather.wordpress.com for all Team Heather updates, information, Global Race for the Cure fundraising, Twitter and Facebook links, and more. Thank you Blogspot, but Wordpress is just so much better!

My "2009 Year in Review"

2010-01-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

As I put together what has become a bit of a tradition with family and friends - my self-indulgent, sarcastic, "Year in Review" poem - I'd like to take a moment to thank you so very much for your support of Team Heather in years passed. Thanks to folks like you, we have raised over $245,000 for Susan G. Komen and the global battle to end breast cancer. Our 10th Anniversary efforts will begin in earnest in less than two months. We hope you will once again join us in 2010. Until then, enjoy, and Happy New Year!

Yours, Shawn
http://tiny.cc/TeamHeather2010

Shawn Gardner's
"2009 Year in Review"
(Read in 8/6/8/6 Syllabic Verse)

The decade ends, with one great year.
Chalk full of stuff to use.
So sit right back, and grab your beer.
Or wine, or shot of booze.

Facebook gave us ways to chat.
The Kindle holds our books.
The iPhone gives, “An app for that!”
And Twitter really cooks.

Old TVs’ rabbit ears don’t work.
And Oprah’s called it quits.
Jay Leno moved his jokes and smirk.
But now, his show’s the pits.

Some folks made things so down right odd.
That Levi showed his junk.
Woods showed, at last, that he’s no God.
And Gaga wore a skunk.

I wish “Glam-bert” did win AI.
I’d beat Chris Brown’s punk ass.
“I Dreamed a Dream of Time Gone By.”
Put Boyle top of class.

We lost our minds, with Jon and Kate.
Can’t they, and Octo-Mom,
Meet with an awful, TV fate.
Or just all move to Guam.

Our blonde angel, from us, did leave.
A munchkin met his, “Wiz”.
Cronkite signed off, on his last eve.
“And that’s the way it is.”

Ted now joins his two big bros.
The “Lion” lead the way.
Paul Harvey will write no more prose.
He finally said, “Good Day!”

I got Swine Flu, way back in June.
And felt I joined this crowd.
Then there’s the boy, from the balloon.
His pop seemed down right proud.

That Rep. made news, with one, “YOU LIE!”
Iran saw some votes cast.
Those town hall meets, let folks ask, “Why?”
Polanski’s caught at last.

Prejean, the “Queen of Clean,” made porn.
And Phelps was snapped with pot.
Fort Hood gave us so much to mourn.
Some pirates stole a yacht.

Mark Sanford did not hike “the trail.”
But still, he pitched a tent.
That sprinter chick turned out a male.
And Ensign’s quite the gent.

Health care reform, has caused a fight.
“Death panels,” aren’t for me.
The Cash for [Cars] was not planned right.
But caused a spending spree.

That captain put his plane down fine.
The Hudson saw a show.
And shootings in a DC “shrine”.
A Nazi causing woe.

DC made news, with that train crash.
The Metro’s still so sound.
The White House crashers, are such trash.
Palin’s “[Gone] Rogue” was crowned.

Maine folks took back our rights to wed.
But DC said we can.
I met the Veep, at his nice spread.
With all the Komen clan.

Now to that race, we love so much.
The global race to cure.
We walked and ran and slept, and such.
And raised some cash, for sure.

Our team turned heads; a pink/black crew.
Team Heather’s power stays.
This brand new year, I say to you.
A-quarter- mil we’ll raise!

So, now, please save a small cash nest.
To donate to the team.
Cause don’t you all, just love the breast?
“Boobs?” “Ta-tas?” “Bags of Dream?”

Now on to sports, let’s start the show.
The Redskins really blew!
Poor Tiger’s flings, have caused him woe.
Tim Tebow really threw.

The New York Yanks, scored one more ring.
“Steel City” ballers ruled.
The Lakers ruled the courts in Spring.
Those Penguins, all but schooled.

Most fam came to the F. o. S.
All gathered here in June.
Our nieces look like kids, much less.
So soon, the guys will swoon.

Mom’s knees took her, to all new heights
Dad’s agency is great.
Renee and John, snapped ghostly sights.
Our little girl turned eight.

Winchester ate no poo at all.
We sure do love our hounds.
Our fam’ly got a bit more small.
Cause Chris and Shawn lost pounds.

Maine kin, did share, our lake side fun.
And Jay and K have drums.
The Kirby's soon should have a son.
We’ll all cheer, when he comes.

The Gilboys had seats at the ‘bowl.
And Corey’s ear’s now fine.
The Baslers, in their socks, found coal.
To all friends, “Glad you’re mine!”

My pals, at SoCo, make work fun.
And Chris now has GO Proud.
With him, I feel, I’ve really won.
To him, my heart is vowed.

I feel so blessed, to know you all.
You make up my life’s beat.
So post a word, please, on my wall.
Or tag me, in a tweet.

Text me, call me, e-mail me news.
Or IM, if you dare.
Toast me, some time, with heady brews
Or throw me up a prayer.

Please know, you’re thought of this New Year.
Although, we might not speak.
And even if it may sound queer.
With you, my life’s less bleak!

112 of the Most Favorite Tweets I've Written on @TeamHeather

2009-10-25T14:16:00.001-07:00

Egypt celebrates its first Race for the Cure, bringing a focus on breast cancer to North. Africa & the Middle East - http://tiny.cc/Egypt552

Men, when a woman in your life gets breast cancer, remember, she's the Commander in Chief in fighting this disease - www.standbyher.org

1 of the most creative & comprehensive breast cancer directories ever seen. It is in AU, and US programs, take note! - http://tiny.cc/h4n3C

VERY interesting, touching, and diverse "group journal" blog written by breast cancer survivors - http://tiny.cc/oL6yL

MaryEllen Locher Found. provides secondary ed scholarships 4 kids who've lost a parent to breast cancer & of breast cancer survivors: http://tiny.cc/5NVAw

Breast cancer survivors who've had a mastectomy, some tips 2 help you become more comfortable w/intimacy after surgery: http://tiny.cc/oUyHl

In breast cancer journey, women need a boyfriend, husband, fiancé, girlfriend, or a partner who is patient - http://tiny.cc/DWk2W

Spouses of breast cancer survivors find a safe place to share anxieties and experiences at support group - http://tiny.cc/gxEJa

One of the FEW resources for young women! Young Women’s Breast Cancer Program offers personal support & ed for young women: http://tiny.cc/WDb3V

Study of over 44,000 women shows more evidence linking obesity to likelihood of developing diseases like breast cancer: http://tiny.cc/7saQC

The most effective way to fight breast cancer is to detect it early. Check out this thorough self-exam "How to" - http://tiny.cc/P6Yw3

AWESOME video on breast cancer survivors recovering through a military style exercise called Breast Cancer Boot Camp - http://tiny.cc/K0o9z

New development in detecting breast cancer combines mammo & CT scans, using comfortable device to detect single photons: http://tiny.cc/Es7sl

Wonderful book survivors can read free online! "Dancing With Fear: Tips & Wisdom From Breast Cancer Survivors" - http://tiny.cc/iOAoI

Pres. Obama awards Pres. Medal of Freedom, highest civilian honor, to breast cancer activist Nancy Brinker, founder of Komen for the Cure!

GREAT read! "B.O.O.B.S.: A Bunch Of Outrageous Breast-Cancer Survivors Tell Their Stories of Courage, Hope & Healing" - http://tiny.cc/Uax6G

Komen for the Cure Ambassador, René Syler, speaks about how to cope with the fear of a recurrence of breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/nwBM4

Evid shows when women are more involved in making own surgery choices, w/less Dr input, they are more apt 2 choose mastectomy: http://tiny.cc/B8XfN

Program to educate Amish & Mennonite women on importance of regular breast self-exams & provide them w/free health screenings: http://tiny.cc/s8oVs

Slide show of stages of breast cancer; stages give your doctor idea of your prognosis & the likely outcome of disease - http://tiny.cc/FHUcU

100 Dubai hosp staff to take basic training in breast cancer detection prior to 12 month Emirate-wide aware camp in Oct: http://tiny.cc/OvHJq

Computer program created that uses artificial intell. to help doctors predict earlier whether breast cancer has metastasized: http://tiny.cc/86ujT

My mother survived, my 26 year old sis did not; how to deal w/survivor guilt & "why am I here?" after breast cancer is gone - http://tiny.cc/hOh8Q

Breast cancer & women in prison: few self-examined, little knowledge of symptoms & risk factors, in need of health education: http://tiny.cc/v7Oeq

New study shows women who smoke while undergoing therapy for breast cancer are more than twice as likely to die - http://tiny.cc/Smoking552

Books for breasts cancer survivors as they recover & need advice, inspiration, motivation or a good old fashion laugh: http://tiny.cc/Books84

Artificial Lighting & Breast Cancer: Blind women have low rates of bc. Nurses & night shift workers have high rates - http://tiny.cc/Light74

“Discovering Hands” is training blind women to use developed tactile skills to detect breast cancer earlier & better than drs http://tiny.cc/MsLI7

Proposed legislation would help make women under 40 aware of their elevated risk for breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/Under40

Deceptively simple non-med tips to help breast cancer survs. cope w/emotional & physical challenges - http://tiny.cc/BCTips

Guys can feel so helpless in their loved ones' fights against breast cancer. No more! - http://www.breastcancerhusband.org

A great support for couples as they face breast cancer together - http://fbctogether.org/

Find a convenient place to have a mammogram near you - http://tiny.cc/FindMammos

Sign up for a reminder to get your annual mammograms ladies - http://tiny.cc/MammoReminder

Don't know WHAT to do for your friend/loved one diagnosed w/breast cancer? Helpful gifts/gestures - http://tiny.cc/Gifts853

Find breast cancer clinical trials near you or targeted at you - http://tiny.cc/FindClinicalTrials

A friend just had her 1st mammo; I thought info on how to prepare for a mammo might be helpful - http://tiny.cc/Preparing

6 Breast cancer symptoms most women don't know about - http://tiny.cc/6Symptoms

Considering BRCA1 & BRCA2 genetic testing for breast cancer? Everything you need to know about benefits and limitations http://tiny.cc/FDKGi

Are you a breast cancer "pre-vivor?" One who, either through family or genetic link, needs to prepare for the possibility of bc? http://tiny.cc/HJpvA

The Bipartisan Breast Cancer Patient Protection Act needs your support! Bill - http://tiny.cc/Bill908; Petition - http://tiny.cc/Petition850

Breast Cancer Awareness Contest for best & most unique celebrations of '09 National Breast Cancer Awareness Month: http://tiny.cc/Contest686

Check out movie “Living Proof,” true story of Dr. Dennis Slamon, the UCLA doc who helped develop the breast cancer drug Herceptin - AMAZING!

Meet four women who survived breast cancer thanks to Herceptin: medicine whose discovery is documented in movie "Living Proof" http://tiny.cc/Survivors

Man's best friend might specifically be woman's best friend; studies show dogs can smell breast cancer on breath - http://tiny.cc/Dogs785

You, and not your doctors, are in charge of your breast cancer medical care. How to train your doctors - http://tiny.cc/Doctor683

Have friends/family members who smoke around you or loved ones; secondhand smoke linked to breast cancer for years! http://tiny.cc/Smoke294

Every relationship is tested by breast cancer; SEX & INTIMACY afterwards: http://tiny.cc/Sex327, http://tiny.cc/Sex41, http://tiny.cc/Sex490

Happy inside & out helps fight breast cancer; tips for survivors: http://tiny.cc/Beauty967, http://tiny.cc/Beauty438, http://tiny.cc/Beauty242

First mammogram? Time for your annual one? Prescribed one cause of a lump? Are you nervous? Use the Buddy System! http://tiny.cc/Buddy858

In some cultures, there's no word for cancer. How Asians, Native Americans, Latinas, & Muslims deal w/ breast cancer: http://tiny.cc/Oprah510

My surviving sister experiences this every year: How to make it through breast cancer false alarms - http://tiny.cc/Oprah679

Study found women living in brightest neighborhoods were 73% more likely to suffer from breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/Nocturnalillumination

"Why I Cut Off My Breasts!" Cameras follow René Syler through this extreme surgery to prevent breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/Oprah963

Had a mastectomy, or know a woman who has, and having a hard time finding a swimsuit that fits? Excellent resource! http://tiny.cc/Oprah577

One virulent fast-acting type of breast cancer attacks more than twice as many young black women as all other women: http://tiny.cc/Oprah729

"Lump!" "Cancer!" "Mastectomy!" "Radiation!" "Chemo!" "Reconstruction!" How to explain this to kids? RESOURCES! - http://tiny.cc/Children672

Telling kids about breast cancer is hard. Use these huggable dolls (& accompanying 34 pg book) as a comforting tool - http://tiny.cc/Kimmie

Breast cancer costs $200,000, so when it is present and health insurance is not, turn to Pretty in Pink - http://tiny.cc/Pretty770

Diagnosed w/ breast cancer? Understand your pathology report by getting past medical jargon & knowing the facts - http://tiny.cc/Pathology132

What's your breast cancer IQ? Take quizzes or share: http://tiny.cc/QuizA, http://tiny.cc/QuizB, http://tiny.cc/QuizC, http://tiny.cc/QuizD

How do we change this? "African American women tend to refuse late stage breast cancer treatment" - http://tiny.cc/AA574

You've heard of "What Not To Wear" - This is what not to say when a loved one tells you she has breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/WhatNotToSay

For any young woman in your life diagnosed w/ breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/Young937 - It was SO hard for my 26 yo sister to find support!

For guys like me, brothers, husbands, fathers, & friends, great site for supporting loved ones fighting breast cancer: http://tiny.cc/Guys370

Great resource for African-American women diagnosed with breast cancer - http://www.lbbc.org/african

Great resource for Latina women diagnosed with breast cancer - http://www.lbbc.org/latina.asp

Great resource for high-risk women or "pre-vivors" who know they'll battle breast cancer - http://www.lbbc.org/high-risk.asp

Great resource for lesbians diagnosed with breast cancer - http://www.mautnerproject.org

All male breast cancer info! How common, causes, risks factors, types, symptoms, staging, treatment, & prognosis - http://tiny.cc/Male616

From dogs, cats, fish, birds, horses, pigs, and others, pet therapy can do WONDERS when battling breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/Pets763

Ladies recently diagnosed w/ breast cancer: need help? have questions? talk? Call this 24 hr hotline & speak to a survivor - 1-800-221-2141

Men w/ a woman in their lives recently diagnosed w/ breast cancer, check out the 24 hr support network, Men's Match Program @ 1-800-221-2141

Knowing the 10 emotional responses one diagnosed w/ breast cancer experiences will help others support & nurture her: http://tiny.cc/SVgq5

Teens feel helpless when someone they love is diagnosed w/ breast cancer! Check out list of things they can do in the fight: http://tiny.cc/x24Pi

At risk for breast cancer or know someone who is, take a look at the Top 10 foods that will help reduce that risk - http://tiny.cc/Top10259

In '07, I told Heather's story in the Senate before a hearing looking into funding for diseases like breast cancer: http://tiny.cc/Senate312

"My illness has a first name it's b-r-e-a-s-t. My illness has a second name it's c-a-n-c-e-r" Songs from a survivor: http://tiny.cc/BCSongs

Alright, I promised breast cancer humor here as well, so here it goes - http://tiny.cc/Funny606

Check out this AWESOME animated & video navigation map for women newly diagnosed with breast cancer: http://breastcancernavigationalmap.org

The Mayo Clinic announces lifestyle factors that can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer - Know the facts! - http://tiny.cc/Tips283

Check out these myths about breast cancer; know yourself and know the facts! - http://tiny.cc/Myths848

One of my favorite names fighting breast cancer; "Knocker Walkers" - 1) Get friends; 2) Pick a breast cancer event; 3) Get a good name 4) FIGHT!

Meet Lea Yekutiel, a woman who loves her breast cancer and what it has done for her - lemons into lemonade folks! - http://tiny.cc/Love781

Pledge to get your mammo now w/Mammograms for a Million Moms - for every 1,000,000 screened, 1,000 lives can be saved: http://tiny.cc/3m4Ef

Suzan St Maur had cancer twice and believes humor & laughter helps survivors & co-survivors through it - GOOD LAUGH: http://tiny.cc/6AlDo

Contrary to belief, pregnancy-associated breast cancer doesn't appear to be any more deadly than bc in non-pregnant women - http://tiny.cc/rpHw5

Check out Making Memories! Their mission is to grant wishes for metastatic breast cancer patients: http://makingmemories.org

In the battle against breast cancer, you GOTTA get creative! Enter, ME's Barron's Bottles for Boobs - http://tiny.cc/Bottles

A collection of breast cancer podcasts, from survivors, on many ways to make like w/breast cancer a bit easier - http://tiny.cc/BlogRadio

DON'T KILL THE MESSENGER! Not sure about accuracy of this study, but you have to admit, it's funny: http://tiny.cc/Housework

Great read! "The Victoria's Secret Catalog Never Stops Coming : and Other Lessons I Learned from Breast Cancer" - http://tiny.cc/Victoria829

Spectacular short films about breast cancer, survivors, co-survivors, treatment, and so much more - http://tiny.cc/ShortFilms695

This is appropriate coming from a teacher - "An apple a day keeps the breast cancer away?" - http://tiny.cc/Apples

The size of a female baby at birth might affect the likelihood of her developing breast cancer later in life - http://tiny.cc/BirthSize

Presented at American College of Sports Medicine's Conference: Working out after age 30 may lower risk of breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/WorkOut801

My interview about Team Heather & the battle against breast cancer on DC's ABC News Channel 8 - http://tiny.cc/NewsChannel8

Alternative ways to support the breast cancer fight - http://tiny.cc/Ways1, http://tiny.cc/Ways2, http://tiny.cc/Ways3, or http://tiny.cc/Ways4

View Komen's new global focus in emotional video - http://tiny.cc/Global32

An unbelievably inspirational story of one woman's mental battle prior to her mastectomy - http://tiny.cc/ABodyResculpted

Producer of Charlize Theron's "Monster" makes "Decoding Annie Parker." Story of bc survivor’s research that led to disc of BRCA1 http://tiny.cc/SilverScreen

Guide to save people time & energy in finding key breast cancer information online (GREAT RESOURCE) - http://tiny.cc/BCGuide

Article I wrote in Family Magazine for Susan G. Komen on experiences of being a co-survivor - http://tiny.cc/FamilyMagazine

192,370 women will be diagnosed with and 40,170 women will die of breast cancer in 2009; know your risks! http://tiny.cc/2009Stats

Don't know WHAT to do for your friend/loved one diagnosed w/breast cancer? Helpful gifts/gestures - http://tiny.cc/Gifts853

WHY does anyone smoke, especially when more and more is learned about its link to breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/WhyDoYouSmoke

Take a minute to sign the "I Vote for the Cure" Petition, which outlines 3 critical goals for Obama - http://tiny.cc/Vote354

After watching Marley & Me, I think it appropriate to highlight this unique take on battling breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/CFTC

Literally, one of the best support systems I've seen; my sister, Heather LOVED this place! - http://tiny.cc/GatheringPlace

A look at the impact of prenatal-to-adult environ exposures that may predispose women to breast cancer - http://www.bcerc.org//home.htm

Deceptively simple non-med tips to help breast cancer survivors cope w/emotional & physical challenges - http://tiny.cc/BCTips

Get empowered by those things you CAN control; look at the 7 ways to help prevent breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/7Ways

Breast Cancer Care Under a Private or Government-run Health Care Plan?

2009-07-24T13:56:00.000-07:00

I am an American living under a private health care system, an American who lived and worked in London and was covered under Britain's government-run health care system. I have dedicated my life to helping women and men realize the breast cancer risks they may face. Through my Team Heather fundraising, blogging, speaking, facebooking, writing, and twittering, I have read a great deal on the differences between service under different health care systems, and it has become clear there are problems under any system a country might employ: private or government-run.

So, private health care plan or government-run health care plan?

It has been stated, under President Obama's proposed health care reform plan, one would be able to keep one's current private health care coverage as long as it remains available from one's employer. The employer responsibilities and obligations under any proposed legislation is still up in the air, however, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that over 100 million employees will leave private health care, in lieu of being dumped by their employers into the government-run system.

Private employers and insurers will find it difficult to compete against the federal government - unlike the federal government, private employers and insurers must answer to stockholders and boards, balance their budgets, produce earnings, make sensible decisions, and so much more. It isn't as simple as those currently pleased with their private health care coverage being able to continue on uninterrupted; much of the decision, or the facts that go into making that decision, will be out of their hands and out of their control. I know for a fact, as an employee of the Fairfax County Public School System who is pleased with his current private health care plan, I will be asked to accept government-based health care.

When it comes to attempting to pinpoint how many Americans are currently uninsured, the number "47 million" has been batted about quite consistently. However, to say 47 million Americans do not have insurance isn't exactly accurate. Of the 47 million uninsured in the United States, 9.7 million are not citizens of this country. Another 14 million of those uninsured are eligible for Medicaid and SCHIP but have never signed up for either program. They could have either form of government insurance if they made a visit to the emergency room. Another 17.6 million of those uninsured have annual incomes of more than $50,000. This leaves approximately 5.5 million Americans currently without insurance - clearly a group of individuals who need a departure from and an improvement upon the present health care system.

The 1018 page health care reform bill currently being discussed has sparked an examination into health care and treatment in countries with similar government-run plans around the world. We clearly have problems under the current United States private health care system. Covering the 5.5 million uninsured Americans should be a priority and addressing other problems within our current health care system should be paramount, but a blanket statement that the United States has "a very serious health care problem" isn't taking into consideration some recent studies and reports:

Breast cancer mortality is 52% higher in Germany than in the United States, and 88% higher in the United Kingdom. When it comes to breast cancer, early detection is key to survival. The BBC reported that United States women were more likely to survive breast cancer than their European counterparts because they are diagnosed earlier. Similarly, prostate cancer mortality is 604% higher in the U.K. and 457% higher in Norway and the mortality rate for colorectal cancer among British men and women is about 40% higher than their counterparts in the United States, who participate in a private health care system. ("Cancer Survival in Five Continents: A Worldwide Population-based Study" & "Europe: Failing on Breast Cancer")

Some 56% of Americans who could benefit are taking statins, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors designed to reduce cholesterol and protect against heart disease. By comparison, of those patients who could benefit from these drugs in countries with government-run health care systems, only 36% of the Dutch, 29% of the Swiss, 26% of Germans, 23% of Britons and 17% of Italians receive them. ("Diffusion of Medicines in Europe" & "The Grass is Not Always Greener: A Look at National Health Care Systems around the World")

Americans of the appropriate age have better access to preventive cancer screening under their private health care system than Canadians of the same appropriate age under their government-run health care. Nine of 10 middle-aged American women (89%) have had a mammogram, compared to less than three-fourths of Canadians (72%). Nearly all American women (96%) have had a pap smear, compared to less than 90% of Canadians. More than half of American men (54%) have had a PSA test, compared to less than 1 in 6 Canadians (16%). Nearly one-third of Americans (30%) have had a colonoscopy, compared with less than 1 in 20 Canadians (5%). Accessibility and availability to life-saving screening methods are greater under private health care systems. ("Health Status, Health Care and Inequality: Canada vs. the U.S.")

More than 70 percent of German, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and British adults say their health system needs either "fundamental change" or "complete rebuilding." ("Toward Higher-Performance Health Systems: Adults' Health Care Experiences In Seven Countries, 2007")

Criticized as a waste of resources by economists and policymakers, an overwhelming majority of leading American physicians identified computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as the most important medical innovations for improving patient care during the previous decade. The United States has 34 CT scanners per million Americans, compared to 12 per million in Canada and eight per million in Britain. The United States has nearly 27 MRI machines per million compared to about 6 per million in Canada and Britain. Access to these life-saving innovations is more limited under government-run health care systems. ("Physicians' Views of the Relative Importance of 30 Medical Innovations" and "OECD Health Data 2008, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development")

Health care innovations thrive under free market health care systems: 1) The top five U.S. hospitals conduct more clinical trials than all the hospitals in any other single developed country. 2) Since the mid-1970s, the Nobel Prize in medicine or physiology has gone to American residents more often than recipients from all other countries combined - In only five of the past 34 years did a scientist living in America not win or share in the prize. 4) Most important recent medical innovations were developed in the United States. (The Nobel Prize Internet Archive and "The U.S. Health Care System as an Engine of Innovation")

Hospital by hospital data, unpublished by the Scottish Government, shows that, for certain types of cancer, patients in some units are waiting an average of 100 days before getting treated. Between January and April in 2008, head and neck cancer patients at Hairmyres Hospital in East Kilbride waited an average of 112 days after GP referral before treatment. Average waits at Falkirk and District Royal Hospitals for gastrointestinal cancer between April and June was 118 days. In the same quarter, patients at Stobhill Hospital in Glasgow suffering from urological cancer waited an average of 105 days. The figures also show that lengthy waits are still common for cancers such as breast cancer, where speedy treatment is needed and life-saving. Of 28 hospitals treating women with breast cancer in 2008's last quarter, 14 had an average wait of over 40 days. ("Secret Wait for Cancer Patients")

No system is perfect. Our health care system needs help. It is clear that other countries also find challenges and difficulties with their own systems of health care. It will be interesting to see how things play out in the future for the United States and its friends, when it comes to health care reform, however, in my work within the breast cancer movement, I am finding more and more evidence that being screened, tested, diagnosed, treated, and monitored for breast cancer under a private health care system leads to more positive outcomes.

"So You Think You Can (Fight Breast Cancer)?"

2009-07-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

This is a piece highlighting a dance on Wednesday night's "So You Think You Can Dance." The dance, choreographed by Emmy Award winning Tyce Diorio, was meant to represent a woman's struggle with breast cancer, showing the way she'd react, fight, survive, as well as how her friends would support her in her battle. Breathtakingly poignant!

New Logo for Team Heather

2009-06-30T09:05:00.001-07:00

Team Heather introduces its new Facebook, Twitter, Blog, Global Race for the Cure and Fundraising logo - TA DA!!!

To:

1) See Team Heather X 2010 and watch our progress over the coming year click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeather2010

2) Follow Team Heather on Twitter (@teamheather) click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherTwitter

3) Follow us on the Team Heather Facebook page click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherFacebook

4) See the interview on ABC News Channel 8 and hear Heather’s story in a whole new way click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherYouTube

5) See WTOP’s coverage of Race Day and Team Heather’s involvement in the opening ceremonies click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherWTOP

6) See the breathtaking video, “Imagine Life Without Breast Cancer,” explaining our new global emphasis click here: http://tiny.cc/ImagineLifeWithoutBreastCancer

7) Read about Team Heather members in Maine making a difference click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherBIWNews

8) Read coverage of the 1st Annual SCSS NJHS Talent Show click here:http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherSCSSTalentShow

9) Read the Washington Times article on Team Heather 2007 click here:http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherWashTimes

10) Visit Conservatives for the Cure click here:http://conservativesforthecure.org/

11) View the history of Team Heather 2009 click here:http://tiny.cc/TeamHeather2009

12) View the history of Team Heather 2008 click here:http://tiny.cc/TeamHeather2008

Barron's Bottles for Boobs

2009-06-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

Imagine Life Without Breast Cancer.

That is what they are doing in Maine. Lyndon & Lee Ann Barron are getting serious early in the fundraising for Team Heather and the 2010 Global Race for the Cure. Even though the 2010 Race is a year away, the Barron's feel it is never too early to start raising money for this incredibly important cause. So, on June 20, 2009, Lyndon & Lee Barron officially launched:

The Barron's will be collecting returnable bottles and cans from friends and neighbors within their community of Damariscotta, ME, with all proceeds going to Team Heather in the 2010 Global Race for the Cure.

All summer, (all year if their community would like!) the Barron's will gladly pick up returnable bottles and cans and take them away; or, community members may drop these empties off at their leisure. Lyndon & Lee Ann have established a "Bottles for Boobs" Drop Off Container next to their garage and invite friends and neighbors within their community to come by anytime!! Every nickel redeemed will be donated to Team Heather in the 2010 Global Race for the Cure to end breast cancer.

Please support the Barron's in this effort! When visiting the Team Heather website, look for team member Lee Ann Barron for an easy online donation; if you have any questions about "Bottles for Boobs," feel free to contact Lyndon & Lee Ann at twncanoe@tidewater.net

So............. Barron's Bottles for Boobs is in full swing!!

Follow Team Heather on Twitter and YouTube

2009-06-25T08:37:00.000-07:00

Click here to watch me interviewed on ABC News Channel 8 in Washington, D. C. on the work of Team Heather through Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

And consider following Team Heather's updates on Twitter (@teamheather). I have included several of my Twitter updates below for your consideration.

Thank you and let me know if you have any questions - gardnershawn68@aol.com

TEAM HEATHER TWITTER UPDATES:

Guide to save people time & energy in finding key breast cancer information online (GREAT RESOURCE) - http://tiny.cc/BCGuide - #breastcancer

Article I wrote in Family Magazine for Susan G. Komen on experiences of being a co-survivor - http://tiny.cc/FamilyMagazine - #breastcancer

A friend just had her 1st mammo; I thought info on how to prepare for a mammo might be helpful - http://tiny.cc/Preparing - #breastcancer

Support the ACLU & Public Patent Foundation's lawsuit to liberate the BRCA1 & BRCA2 genes - http://tiny.cc/BreastCancer... - #breastcancer

Be careful folks! 10 Surprising facts about U.S. health care comp. to that of Canada's gov-run - http://www.ncpa.org/pub/ba649 #breastcancer

Find breast cancer clinical trials near you or targeted at you - http://tiny.cc/FindClinical... - #breastcancer

Mammo availability DROPS as breast cancer rates SOAR in countries with gov-run health care - http://tiny.cc/DeadlyMix - http://tiny.cc/US637

192,370 women will be diag. with & 40,170 women will die of breast cancer in 2009; know your risks! http://tiny.cc/2009Stats - #breastcancer

I Just found this out; made me sad. Barbara Gittings, gay rights pioneer, dead at 75 from breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/BarbaraGitti...

@breastfestfilm - Thanks for the retweet. LOVE your event idea; just wish I was closer! www.breastfestfilmfest.com - #breastcancer

Filmmakers! Submit short films (10 min) of any kind focusing on breast cancer for film fest in Ontario, 11/20-21 www.breastfestfilmfest.com

WHY does anyone smoke, especially when more & more is learned about its link to breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/WhyDoYouSmoke - #breastcancer

Women in MN, take advantage of free mammograms and a bonus - http://tiny.cc/FreeMammos - #breastcancer

Check out the 2-day, 100 mile Endure for the Cure in East Peoria, IL on July 10-12 - http://www.endureforthecure... - #breastcancer

What could be better or easier in the battle against breast cancer than Eat for the Cure? http://www.lulu.com/content... - #breastcancer

Take a minute to sign the "I Vote for the Cure" Petition, which outlines 3 critical goals for Obama - http://tiny.cc/Vote354 - #breastcancer

Don't usually like breast cancer products, but this one SMELLS SO GOOD! - http://tiny.cc/Shower288 - #breastcancer

Heading to Maine for vac so thought I'd highlight this event battling breast cancer in Mar, 2010 - http://tiny.cc/MaineEvent - #breastcancer

Breast cancer warriors in UT, come out this Sat to support the fight on the Colorado River - http://www.raftforthecure.com - #breastcancer

After watching Marley & Me, I think it approp. to highlight this unique take on battling breast cancer - http://tiny.cc/CFTC - #breastcancer

Ain't this the truth? Unbelievable! RT @ArmyofWomen: "Women Deserve More From The Stimulus Package" Dr. Love http://ow.ly/fvnd #breastcancer

What folks won't do for breast cancer - RT @BCsurvivors: Man walks across USA to fight #breastcancer http://bit.ly/nWhfL #breastcancer

RT @AngeKinder: RT @GenesisPink: Remember on father's day that 1 in 1000 men will dev breast cancer. www.genesisuk.org to help the fight.

Literally, one of the best support systems I've seen; my sister, Heather LOVED this place! - http://tiny.cc/GatheringPlace - #breastcancer

This hits so close to home! RT @KomenOregon: Meet Heather http://bit.ly/13fOPl a young survivor who's screening was funded by Komen

There're AMAZING people out there! RT @SacBCRC SHOUT OUT 2 all the firefighters @ Station 1 for cooking food for 1 of our breast cancer pts

One of the most unique breast cancer sites; Star Wars Chicks Fight for the Cure - http://starwarschicks.com/f... - #breastcancer

Sign up for a reminder to get your annual mammograms ladies - http://tiny.cc/MammoReminder - #breastcancer

Team Heather Posters from the Past Fundraising Year

2009-06-19T06:09:00.000-07:00

Keep Track of Team Heather EVERYWHERE

2009-06-16T07:12:00.000-07:00

To:

1) See Team Heather X 2010 and watch our progress over the coming year click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeather2010

2) Follow Team Heather on Twitter (@teamheather) click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherTwitter

3) Follow us on the Team Heather Facebook page click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherFacebook

4) See the interview on ABC News Channel 8 and hear Heather’s story in a whole new way click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherYouTube

5) See WTOP’s coverage of Race Day and Team Heather’s involvement in the opening ceremonies click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherWTOP

6) See the breathtaking video, “Imagine Life Without Breast Cancer,” explaining our new global emphasis click here: http://tiny.cc/ImagineLifeWithoutBreastCancer

7) Read about Team Heather members in Maine making a difference click here: http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherBIWNews

8) Read coverage of the 1st Annual SCSS NJHS Talent Show click here:http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherSCSSTalentShow

9) Read the Washington Times article on Team Heather 2007 click here:http://tiny.cc/TeamHeatherWashTimes

10) Visit Conservatives for the Cure click here:http://conservativesforthecure.org/

11) View the history of Team Heather 2009 click here:http://tiny.cc/TeamHeather2009

12) View the history of Team Heather 2008 click here:http://tiny.cc/TeamHeather2008

Team Heather Goes Global....and so much more!

2009-06-16T06:52:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 6th, nearly 45,000 people came together as a living testament to the power of individuals to impact the world. The outcome of this gathering was nothing short of miraculous $4,300,000 raised to help those battling breast cancer and to end breast cancer forever.

With the knowledge that every 68 seconds, a woman, along with her hopes and dreams and future, dies of breast cancer, and with cancer taking the lives of 7 million individuals worldwide each year, more than AIDS, Malaria, and Tuberculosis combined, there has never been a more important time to act, so thank you!

With Komen’s promise of 75% of all monies raised going towards supporting the underserved and disadvantaged in the Nation’s Capital, an estimated $3,225,000 will stay in Washington, D.C. a record for our event. The remaining $1,075,000 will make a much-needed global impact in areas like Serbia, the country with the highest breast cancer rates in the world. In one small village, over 800 women were recently diagnosed with varying stages of breast cancer.

Team Heather’s contribution to these efforts is momentous. So far in 2009, Team Heather members, donors, supporters, friends, and family have raised an astonishing $55,193.72; bringing our overall total to $241,393.72 since 2002.

Because of you, and with Komen’s promise, $41,395.29 of what we raised will go towards essential breast cancer programs, similar to: “Increasing Breast Cancer Screening Capacity for Women Living in Poverty,” “Massage Therapy for Medically Underserved Breast Cancer Patients,” “Brains, Breasts & Beauty: The Use It or Lose It Program for Women 18-40,” “Breast Cancer Screening and Education for Low-Income Latinas,” “Increasing Breast Cancer Screening for Women with Disabilities,” and more.

With the addition of a global focus this year, the work of Team Heather will be farther-reaching than ever; the remaining $13,798.43 U.S. dollars will make a HUGE impact towards something like the purchase of a mobile mammography vehicle for a developing country.

I promised Heather I would continue leading our small efforts towards this remarkable campaign of realizing a world without breast cancer. Over the past months, I’ve visited the Komen website daily, where the words “Impact: Make One!” struck me deeper with each and every visit. On Saturday, June 6th, I saw 45,000 people with “Impact: I Made One!” on their backs. They, like you, are a testament to the power of this campaign.

On Saturday, June 5, 2010, Team Heather will celebrate our 10th anniversary in the groundbreaking event that is now the Global Race for the Cure Team Heather X, if I might. It will be the landmark year where we surpass a quarter-of-a-million dollars raised in Heather’s name; where we see new team fundraisers like “Poker for the Cure” in Maine, “OctoberBreast for the Cure” in Virginia, and “Renee for the Cure” in Florida, with dozens of events in between; and where we will once again assemble in Washington, D.C. to shout as one, with the loudest, proudest, strongest voice possible, “Impact: I Made One!”

Registration is ALREADY up and running for Team Heather X. To join today, and to never have to hear an appeal for the 2010 race from me that, in itself, is worth it simply click on the link.

Yours with great appreciation,

Shawn Gardner

Team Heather Captain

Facebook's "Team Heather: Fighting For a Breast Cancer Cure" Announces its Team Captains

2009-02-07T07:56:00.003-08:00

Shawn Gardner - Team Captain

Christopher R Barron - Co-Captain

Renee Marie-Gardner Duddy - Southern Sister-Captain

Rebecca Gardner - Mother-Captain

Robert Gardner - Father-Captain

Kendra Barron - Spirit-Captain

Jason Barron - Legal-Captain

Jen Schimmenti - Events-Captain

Ashley Cox Kirby - North Carolina-Captain

Barry Kirby - Kirby-Captain

Lori Sondheimer Gilboy - Corporate Sponsor-Captain

Francine Wargo - Co-Fundraising-Captain

Caroline Bergmark - Co-Fundraising-Captain

Lydia Shell - Training Captain

Lee Ann Barron - Barron-Captain

South County Secondary School geared up for its NHS/JNHS April Talent Show by embracing Breast Cancer Awareness Month last Fall

2009-02-07T07:23:00.001-08:00

The culmination of Breast Cancer Awareness Month was South County Secondary School's (7th-12th grade) 3200 students and teachers wearing pink to school. There were pink braids, boxers, hair paint, t-shirts, pants, tennis shoes, jerseys, bracelets, nail polish, make up, earrings, glasses, robes, purses, scarves, wigs, posters, necklaces, burkahs, socks, and everything else you could think of. The morning news show did a segment on the importance of early detection and of joining this cause and the fellow staff members who are currently engaged in their own battles were celebrated.

Article I was asked to write for Family Magazine on the challenges of being a co-survivor

2009-02-07T06:18:00.000-08:00

I am Shawn Gardner, a co-survivor of breast cancer, and I work for the day when it is not a global movement for men like me to wear pink, but a fashion statement to do so. I long for the moment when I no longer worry about my mother growing a lump, but growing old and cranky instead. I want to awake on June’s first Saturday and race not to save a life, but simply to beat the one running next to me. I await the point where it’s not my duty to know about breast exams and preventions and treatments, but about how to make the perfect margarita. I yearn for the freedom to not raise awareness and money and consciousness, but to raise my glass in a toast. I dream of an end to breast cancer.

I have dreamed of this end to breast cancer since the moment, on a rainy April morning in 2001, a doctor did what so many doctors must do – walk into a waiting room where the desperately concerned family of a loved one awaits news that could crush their world. In this case, the loved one was my 25 year old baby sister, Heather. The news was of a lump she found several mornings earlier when her right arm brushed against it as she rolled lazily in bed. The lump, we were told, was most certainly malignant, up to 10 years old, spidered out in all directions, spread into most lymph nodes surrounding it, and would certainly take her life. I rushed out of the hospital into the rain to phone my other sister, Renee. Heather was in trouble.

This was the defining moment of my life; in that instant I became a breast cancer co-survivor without even knowing it – my work in the breast cancer movement had begun.

Calls were placed, pleas were made, waiting lists reshuffled, and Heather found herself admitted two days later into the renowned Ireland Cancer Center. A team of 12 specialists (surgeon, radiologist, oncologist, plastic surgeon, counselor) realized the gravity of the case before them – a 25 year old woman with Stage IV Breast Cancer. We knew, as breast cancer survivor and co-survivors, we had a long road ahead of us, but little did we know exactly what Stage IV Breast Cancer brought with it.

Treatment plan. Tested blood. TRAM flap procedure. Med port surgery. Chemotherapy. Neupogen shots. Massage therapy. Radiation. Bone scans. More radiation. Late night hospital runs. Falls. Brain tumors. Full brain radiation. Music therapy. Carcinoma Meningitis. Experimental chemotherapy. Ommaya reservoir. Oral chemotherapy. In-home hospice. Paralysis. Hearing loss. Last visits. Sight loss. Blessing of the Sick.

Heather Gardner Starcher lost her battle on the evening of September 29, 2002, surrounded by family and friends – co-survivors all.

For me, this position of co-survivor has carried with it so many roles – representative, brother, speaker, recruiter, cheerleader, activist, researcher, manager, writer, coach, fundraiser, and more. Of course, my survivor, Heather, no longer is able to fight, so it makes it all the more important for me to wear these different hats – to assume these diverse responsibilities – in order to carry on her legacy, her name, her battle.

At times, these duties feel like too heavy a burden to carry. I am overwhelmed by the demands on my time, my friendships, my energy. In itself, this article’s introduction illustrates the toll being a co-survivor takes on one’s spirit, on their priorities, on their life. The battle is mentally exhausting, emotionally crippling, and, surprisingly, I thank Heather everyday for allowing me the opportunity to act as her co-survivor in this global movement to end breast cancer.

I, like so many others, use the word “battle” so often in my talks and writings about Heather. It is interesting that such esoteric language is employed when relaying the experiences of survivors and co-survivors. “Soldier,” “warrior,” “combat,” “crusade,” “weapons,” “grassroots,” “war” are words ordinarily used by military commanders when referring to their enemy; however, we, in the breast cancer movement, adopt this vernacular because of the daunting nature of our own enemy.

Since that rainy morning in April when this co-survivor was born, I’ve felt the presence of that enemy. I have experienced its power as if I were the one diagnosed. I have spoken of its might in interviews, taken its victims’ stories to the Senate, written of small victories on the page, and worked outside the box to place an emphasis on research, education, screening, and treatment - the work of a co-survivor.

I am Shawn Gardner, a co-survivor, and I wish there had been a cure for breast cancer in 2002. Had there been a cure for breast cancer in 2002, Heather would be a thriving, healthy, happy wife and mother. Had there been a cure for breast cancer in 2002, Heather would be a powerful spokeswoman in the global breast cancer movement. And had there been a cure for breast cancer in 2002, Heather would not have missed so many family memories.

However, in 2002, there was no cure for breast cancer, and my baby sister became just one more woman who lost her own battle. In 2008, another vibrant, magnificent woman will be diagnosed. For me, it is the job of a co-survivor to insure that six years from now, her brother is not writing, “Had there been a cure for breast cancer in 2008…”

Posters from our Training Captain Lydia Shell

2009-02-07T05:33:00.001-08:00

Posters the Training Captain from our Facebook Group, "Team Heather: Fighting for a Breast Cancer Cure" created and is posting around her community.

2007-04-20T09:55:00.000-07:00

It has been over a month since we started the 2007 Team Heather National Race for the Cure fundraising efforts and yesterday we moved into the Number 1 spot out of hundreds and hundreds of teams. Monies raised will help to ensure that underserved women in the DC Area receive the breast cancer education, screening, and treatment they so urgently need and deserve. Think about this... Last year, Team Heather raised over $50,000. The National Race for the Cure raised $3.3 million overall, and Komen was able to keep a record $1.9 million here in the DC area. Which means, the fundraising efforts of Team Heather alone raised over 2.5% of the DC monies raised in 2006!!! We are shooting for just as much this year and could use your help by going to our Team Heather website.

Some UNBELIEVABLE things have happened recently:

1) Heather’s story was highlighted as the human side of testimony at a Senate Subcommittee Meeting on funding for the National Institute of Health, and I shared Heather’s story, and the importance of breast cancer research, at a Senate press conference afterwards with Senators Harkin and Specter.

2) South County Secondary School’s 80 Junior National Honor Society members are putting on a school-wide talent show, joining the team, setting fundraising goals, and seeking participation from local businesses, all in order to raise funds for Team Heather and the National Race for the Cure – the grand prize is a fully catered dinner for 100 donated by a local Mexican restaurant.
3) I am being honored with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Co-Survivor of the Year Award at a ceremony chaired by DC’s Mayor on the National Mall on April 26 and was asked to be the very first co-survivor to participate in Komen’s Media Training (enabling me to now speak on behalf of Susan G. Komen for the Cure).

4) Team Heather's 2006 Honorary Team Captain, Julie Murphy Wells, was named the 2007 Susan G. Komen BMW Ultimate Drive for the Cure Local Hero. Together with her friends and family, 21 of us drove from Alexandria, Virginia to Silver Spring, Maryland in 2008 BMW's, raising over $1400 for breast cancer research.

But NONE of this matters if folks don’t take one minute, open their checkbooks, and give a little to the fight against breast cancer. So please, if you are reading this, act today!

Together we CAN make a difference! Thank you in advance.

Shawn Gardner
Team Captain, Team Heather

Heather's Story to be Heard in a Senate Appropriations Labor-HHS Committee Hearing and Subsequent Press Conference on Capitol Hill

2007-03-18T11:12:00.000-07:00

Heather Goes To Washington

Team Heather is up and running with the team captain, me, Shawn Gardner, attending a Senate Subcommittee (Appropriations Labor - Heath, and Human Services, Education, and Other Agencies) Hearing on, among other things, funding for breast cancer research. Heather's story and battle will be featured, putting a face on the fight against cancer. Afterwards, I will be speaking at a press conference with Senators Harkin and Specter. 1000's more will hear Heather's story and become motivated to get tested, get active, and force a change. Below this media advisory, check out the webpages of the senators on the Appropriations Labor - HHS Subcommitte.

MEDIA ADVISORY
CAPITOL HILL PRESS CONFERENCE:
THE FUTURE OF BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH
SENS. HARKIN AND SPECTER, LEADING UNIVERSITIES TO RELEASE NEW REPORT ON HOW
FLAT FUNDING OF BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH THREATENS SCIENTIFIC AND MEDICAL PROGRESS
MONDAY, MARCH 19, 2007 HART SENATE OFFICE BUILDING

Following a Senate Appropriations Labor-HHS Committee hearing on funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), scientists from a consortium of nine leading academic institutions will release a major report on the state of biomedical research in the United States. The report will explain how consecutive years of stagnant budgets have halted promising research in mid-stream, challenged seasoned researchers to continue to achieve scientific progress, and threatened the future of young investigators who may be forced to leave careers in science. If left unaddressed, these problems could undermine U.S. global leadership in biomedical research. The scientists will offer examples of how flat funding of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) could affect advances into treatment for cancer, spinal cord and brain injuries, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Subcommittee Chairman Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Ranking Member Arlen Specter (R-PA) will join top scientists to discuss the implications of the report’s findings for the 2008 budget and beyond.

The report will be available at the press conference. Its authors include the University of California system, Columbia University, Harvard University, Johns Hopkins University, Partners Healthcare, University of Texas at Austin, Washington University in St. Louis, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Yale University.

Where: 216 Hart Senate Office Building

When: Monday, March 19, 2007

3:00– 4:00 p.m.

Who: Sen. Tom Harkin, Senate Appropriations Committee

Sen. Arlen Specter, Senate Appropriations Committee

Edward Miller, M.D., Dean/CEO, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Stephen Strittmatter, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Neurology and Neurobiology, Yale University School of Medicine

John Carethers, M.D., Professor of Medicine and Chief, Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Diego

Democratic Subcommittee Members:

Senator Tom Harkin (Chairman) (IA)
Senator Daniel Inouye (HI)
Senator Herb Kohl (WI)
Senator Patty Murray (WA)
Senator Mary Landrieu (LA)
Senator Richard Durbin (IL)
Senator Jack Reed (RI)
Senator Frank Lautenberg (NJ)

Republican Subcommittee Members:

Senator Arlen Specter (Ranking Member) (PA)
Senator Thad Cochran (MS)
Senator Judd Gregg (NH)
Senator Larry Craig (ID)
Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (TX)
Senator Ted Stevens (AK)Senator Richard Shelby (AL)

Team Heather 2007 is Up and Running

2007-03-18T10:42:00.000-07:00

I WISH….

I wish there was a cure for breast cancer in 2002! Because, had there been a cure for breast cancer in 2002, my baby sister Heather would be the thriving, healthy, happy 31 year old wife of Jason Starcher. Had there been a cure for breast cancer in 2002, my baby sister Heather would be the doting, proud mother of very lucky children. Had there been a cure for breast cancer in 2002, my baby sister Heather would be a powerful spokeswoman for the testing of young women in order to receive that cure. And had there been a cure for breast cancer in 2002, my baby sister Heather would not have missed the past five holiday seasons, four Easters, 20 family birthdays, half dozen births, numerous family weddings, anniversaries, and reunions, and countless Gardner-Starcher family moments and laughs.

However, in 2002, there was no cure for breast cancer, and my baby sister Heather became just one more woman who lost her own battle. In 2007, another vibrant, magnificent woman will be diagnosed. It is our job to insure that five years from now, her brother is not writing, “Had there been a cure for breast cancer….”

THINK ABOUT TAKING ACTION….

So, as you may know, the 18th annual 5-K Susan G. Komen National Race for the Cure® is on June 2, 2007. This will be the 7th consecutive year Team Heather, a team created in honor of my baby sister Heather Gardner Starcher, has participated in this groundbreaking event. We are determined to surpass our fundraising efforts of last year, where, with the help of folks like you, Team Heather’s 110 team members raised over $50,000. In fact, to date, Team Heather has raised over $100,000 for breast cancer research and treatment.

I would be honored if you aided in Heather’s ongoing battle in 2007, by either:

1) Joining Team Heather and raising funds (click here Team Heather)
2) Sponsoring Team Heather by donating funds (click here Team Heather)
3) Spreading the message of Team Heather by forwarding this appeal (so easy!)

BUT BEFORE YOU DO….

By now, with literally 1000’s of folks hearing Heather’s story, many already know so much about her. What folks might not know about Heather, though, are the things that make her family and friends miss her presence. So, “Heather,” in the words of those who think of her daily:

“When we were still living in Florida, Brandon and I learned that Heather's cancer had spread. I was so sad and upset. When I called Heather to tell her how much we loved her, it was obvious that I had been crying. Even though Heather just got this horrible news, she was only concerned about me. She said, ‘What's wrong? Did something happen with you and Brandon?’ When I said no, she replied, ‘Oh are you crying about me?’ Then in her characteristically upbeat, cheerful voice she said, ‘Don't worry about me! I'm fine!’ Of course, that only made me cry more.

Throughout her whole bout with cancer, from her diagnosis until she passed away, Heather was always concerned with how everyone else was doing. She didn't want anyone to feel sorry for her. She wanted to enjoy every moment of her life. Finding out she had cancer was not what made Heather this way; it was just the kind of person she had always been as long as I had known her. She was always so positive, so caring, so giving. She always made everyone around her feel lucky to be a part of her life.

We miss Heather so much and will never forget her and the life lessons she has taught us.

We love you, Heather!!”
Christy Burke – Family Friend

“I can first see Heather as a little girl with her long, curly, blond hair. I remember when she cried, it sounded like she had the hiccups. I thought that was so funny. I can imagine how hard it was for her and Scott, my baby brother, to try to keep up and fit in with us.

Somewhere along the way, the cute, little girl who followed us around, and cried a lot, grew into a beautiful, sweet, young woman, who smiled a lot. Isn't it ironic that she would become one of my heroes? She faced her battle with cancer with such strength and determination. Everytime I talked to her, she wanted to hear about the girls and what they were doing. You would never know by talking to her what she was going through. When life gave her lemons, she made the BEST lemonade, and threw the biggest party so everyone could drink it!

Heather's faith and spirit helped me to grow in my own faith in ways I can not begin to describe. Proverbs 3:5 tells us to ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding.’ Although she didn't understand the ‘why?’ she trusted the Lord. I am thankful for the times that the Lord gives us little glimpses as to the "why?" We know that Heather has and continues to do important work.”
Lynne Carmack – Cousin

“When I think of Heather, I think of her unending smile; I think of butterflies and daisies. I remember her wearing a suit of your Mom's that Becky wore when she was younger - who knew the style would come back? I remember Heather being terrified going over the 7-mile bridge in Key West Florida when we were there for a family reunion. We were laughing at her, but trust me, she did not find it amusing. I remember the bracelets that Shawn and Renee made during Heather's last days. I have mine and I wear them each and every time I fly somewhere or go on a long car trip. I say a prayer to Heather to keep us safe as we travel and I know that she does just that. Most of all I remember Heather's courage and strength that everyone around her drew upon. I remember each time I saw her while she was sick, she would ask how I was doing. Here she was, laying in your parent’s family room in a hospital bed, and she wanted to know how I was doing. She always told me she loved me. I do my best to teach my children who Heather is. I only have one picture of Heather with Asia, but it is a picture I treasure; Asia knows who she is and knows that she is in heaven with God. She has asked me before if she can go and see her. How I wish that I could take both of my kids to see her. Heather would adore them. I will make sure that as Asia and Devin grow up they know of Heather and what a wonderful person she was. I will remember that Heather was my friend, my "sister," and an absolutely amazing woman. I will forever hold her dear to my heart.”
Shelly Hawthorne – Family Friend

Heather had a great smile; she always had one on her face. She had a great personality and was always happy and easy to be with. Heather brought people together; she was the glue that bonded them, a great friend, a leader. Heather had the strength of a giant. Heather had her dad’s nose.”
Robert Gardner - Dad

“One fond memory we have is enjoying her wedding reception. She was so happy! Her hair was growing in curly and she looked so beautiful in her gown. Her big brown eyes were shining so bright. She and Jason entertained us all with those huge, ugly teeth they wore! They visited each and every table with those teeth talking as if they looked normal. They had us in stitches! Her courage and sense of humor were inspiring to us, and I'm sure anyone who knew her. She helps to give us courage every day to fight my own battle with Multiple Sclerosis. I know she is beside me cheering me on. God bless you both.”
Cook & Jack Hurst – Aunt and Uncle

“In 2002, after her second race, Heather looked great and was showing off her wedding album, but she made it clear that she HATED her new hair - all curly and bronze. I thought it was adorable - as she was. Later that day, she and Jason took a little break in the bathroom, and we heard lots of giggling, but I don’t imagine that’s something you want to share with the whole world.”
Laura Meagher – Family Friend

“Heather Gardner Starcher was just a regular woman until diagnosed with breast cancer. Then, she became an advocate, educator, and inspiration. One thing that amazed me about Heather was her undying faith in God. I remember her father bringing her communion everyday when she was in the hospital. I wondered how she could still believe after everything she had went through, and had yet to go through. She made me (a nonbeliever), want to know more. She made me want to have that faith that she cherished so much. I love and miss her so much, but I know that because of that faith she is with God. And he is very lucky!”
Angela Rea – Best Friend

“Heather was fun loving, thoughtful, kind and gutsy. She was a very loyal friend. She was not afraid to stand up and say, ‘this is wrong,’ and follow thru with her convictions.”
Debbie Wilhelm – Neighbor

“There were at least 200 people at Heather and Jason's wedding. Though we had only known Heather a short time, she insisted that Caroline and I be at her wedding, and that Shawn contact my boss to rearrange my schedule. When it came time to dance with bride, the line stretched around the room. I think everyone danced with Heather that night to celebrate.”
Francine Wargo – Family Friend

“You can only smile when you think of Heather G!”
Scott Phillips – Family Friend

"I learned a great deal from Heather; particularly, lessons about how to approach life and how to treat others. She also helped me realize that having close family and friends is extremely important to living a fulfilling life. Heather always put others before herself, even in her most trying times. She will be forever missed."
Greg Dooley – Family Friend

“My first memory of Heather is one from very long ago, but one that I will never forget. She was the little sister of one of my good friends. Little did I know that she would later in life marry my brother, be a great friend and sister-in-law to me, and become one of the most memorable people in my oldest son’s life. Logan was 2 years old when he met Heather, and they had an immediate bond. When she became sick, he would sit at the hospital with us for hours at a time and never cry, run around, or do anything else that you would expect of a toddler. He would sit quietly and wait to see his Aunt Heather. She always had a smile for him. To this day he misses his Aunt Heather greatly. There is not a day that goes by that he doesn't talk about her. I know that she holds an amazing place in his heart and always will.”
Deanna Green – Sister-in-Law

WE NEED YOU….

It is important to hear peoples’ memories of a breast cancer victim like Heather in these ways. Each one lost is a life lost – powerful, far-reaching, impactful. Imagine what Heather could have accomplished had she lived.

Supporting Team Heather in one of the three ways listed above is wonderful; supporting the team in more than one of these ways will all but insure we reach our fundraising goal of $50,000 in 2007, and help us to improve the lives of so many mothers, sisters, daughters, wives, grandmothers, aunts, cousins, friends, and coworkers of all of us.

Thank you very much for your consideration and thank you for your efforts to help end this devastating disease. We love and miss you tremendously Heather!

You can make a difference. Please act now!

Sincerely,
Shawn Gardner – gardnershawn68@aol.com
Team Captain, Team Heather

TEAM HEATHER AND THE KOMEN NATIONAL RACE FOR THE CURE REGISTRATION IS UP AND RUNNING

2006-03-21T06:48:00.000-08:00

Come join Team Heather and help us get to our 2006 goal of $30,000 to fight breast cancer. Just visit the Team Heather webpage for the Komen National Race for the Cure to become a team member or visit my personal Komen National Race for the Cure webpage to sponsor me personally. WE NEED YOUR HELP and so do thousands of underprivileged women who can't afford the testing, screening, and treatment to battle their breast cancer. Join us, won't you?

If you are unsure about joining the team OR sponsoring us, I thought it might help to learn a bit about Heather. She was my youngest sister. Heather was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer at age 25 and participated in the National Race for the Cure® in 2001 and 2002. Heather offered herself up to speak around Northeast Ohio on the importance of early detection and treatment for breast cancer. She was determined to help improve the quality of life for those less fortunate. Heather’s intense desire to inform and educate other women, young and old alike, on the dangers of emerging breast cancer guided her decision to proudly go wigless and hatless throughout her treatment. At 26, and recently married, Heather lost the battle with breast cancer she had been fighting for over a year and a half.

This year, Team Heather is proud to announce our 2006 Komen National Race for the Cure's Honorary Team Captain is the lead singer from “Eddie From Ohio,” and my very good friend, Julie Murphy Wells. Last September, Julie was diagnosed with breast cancer and is now undergoing her last rounds of chemotherapy; remission, here she comes! For those who know and love Julie, we aren't surprised she's tackling this experience with the same faith, courage, humor, and spirit with which she walks through life.

Also, it is with just as much celebration that we announce United States Congressman, and close friend, Jim Kolbe (AZ) has agreed to become our 2006 Honorary Team Chairman - "I would be honored to serve as your Honorary Chairman for your team." Congressman Kolbe’s family has been struck by cancer as well and is more than happy to lend his name and prestige to Team Heather’s efforts this year.

Come join the team! You CAN make a difference. PLEASE act now!

Team Heather Captain,
Shawn Gardner

Team Heather Adds United States Congressman Jim Kolbe to the Team as the 2006 Honorary Chairman

2006-03-04T16:52:00.000-08:00

Family and friends of Team Heather had no words to explain the excitement we felt when we announced that Eddie From Ohio's lead singer, Julie Murphy Wells, agreed to become the team's 2006 Honorary Team Captain. It is with just as much celebration that we announce United States Congressman, and close friend, Jim Kolbe (R-AZ) has agreed to become our 2006 Honorary Team Chairman, saying, "I would be honored to serve as your Honorary Chairman for your team."

TEAM HEATHER HAS A UNITED STATES CONGRESSMAN FOR OUR HONORARY CHAIRMAN!!! This is all very hard to believe for those of us who sat in a neighbor's back patio years ago and decided that we were going to make Team Heather a fundraising force to be reckoned with. A new Team Heather awareness website, a nationally known bands' lead singer as our Honorary Team Captain, a United States Congressman a our Honorary Chairman, and a $30,000 fundraising goal - 2006 will be quite a year for Team Heather.

Representative Kolbe, an 11 term Congressman from Arizona, is an advocate for personal savings accounts, a leader and proponent of immigration reform and strengthening border security, and a fierce proponent of smaller government, lower taxes, and more individual responsibility. Most importantly to Team Heather, Congressman Koble has demonstrated his desire to help in the fight against breast cancer by joining our team. Thanks Jim!

Komen's "National Race for the Cure" 2005 Grant Awardees

2006-03-02T10:52:00.000-08:00

It is always amazing to raise money and see where it actually goes to be used well. Last year, Team Heather raised over $27,500 for Komen's National Race for the Cure. The 2005 Komen Grant Awardees have recently been announced and seeing some of the recipients of the hard work of over 1000 teams and thousands of individuals really makes the months of hard work pay off. Thank you Komen, for using this money wisely. Take a look at the work of some of the awardees below:

Adventist Healthcare

Arlington Free Clinic

Boat People S.O.S.

Cancer Research And Prevention Foundation

CASA of Maryland, Inc.

DC Department of Health

Holy Cross Hospital

La Clinica del Pueblo

Lombardi - Capital Breast Care Center

Mary's Center for Maternal and Child Care, Inc.

Mautner Project

National Capital Area Affiliate of Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization

Nueva Vida

Providence Hospital

Suburban Hospital Cancer Program

Sibley Memorial Hospital

Smith Farm Center for the Healing Arts

Washington Adventist Hospital

Whitman Walker Clinic

If you visit any of these sites above, you will see that the monies raised from Komen's National Race for the Cure go to helping underprivileged women become informed on, tested for, and treated against breast cancer. Heather loved this goal of providing assistance for women who can't enjoy the type of medical care she received, so the $27,500 that Team Heather raised in 2005 is continuing here work today. Thanks, and $30,000, here we come!

Sheryl Crow Announces Her Personal Breast Cancer Battle

2006-02-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Sheryl Crow is not stranger to overcoming the odds. She wrote her first song at age 13 and worked as a music teacher for autisitc children. She went from jingle-writing to become a backup singer for Michael Jackson. She was offered only dance-pop contracts after Jackson's "Bad" tour and turned everyone of them down in her quest to be a rocker. She battled personal depression, professional scandal, the controversial death of an ex-boyfriend, and more. She's written songs for Wynonna Judd, Celine Dion, Stevie Nicks, and Eric Clapton and sung an unlikely duet with Kid Rock. She's been a Bond girl with her writing and performance of the theme song for Tomorrow Never Dies. She's had countless Grammy-winning hits and saw just as many platinum-selling albums. She's dated and broken up with one of the world's most revered athletes. She's over 40 and hotter than ever. And now, she 's a breast cancer suvivor.

This week, Crow announced her battle with breast cancer in a statement:

"Approximately 1 in 7 American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime and more than 2 million Americans are living with breast cancer today. I am joining the more than 200,000 women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.

We are a testament to the importance of early detection and new treatments. I encourage all women everywhere to advocate for themselves and for their future. See your doctor and be proactive about your health.

More than 10 million Americans are living with cancer, and they demonstrate the ever-increasing possibility of living beyond cancer. I am inspired by the brave women who have faced this battle before me and grateful for the support of family and friends."

It is ironic that in 2000, she performed for a "Rock Against Breast Cancer" Concert. Who would have guessed she'd be the beneficiary of such a wonderful chapter in this long battle. Good luck in your recovery, Sheryl. With your inner strength, winner's attitude, and admirable confidence, your battle has already been won.

Announcing Team Heather's Dual Purposes - Awareness & Fund-Raising

2006-02-16T12:06:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

Team Heather, the effort initiated in 2001 to support my youngest sister in her battle with breast cancer, has now branched off into two exciting endeavors: a fund-raising effort through Team Heather’s participation in Komen’s National Race for the Cure, and an awareness effort through this Team Heather Blog. Last year, the fund-raising effort of Team Heather placed third out of over 1200 teams, with $27,500 raised by 77 team members. The awareness effort has just begun.

(Look, however, for the line between the two to blur somewhat as we grow closer to the June 3, 2006 race-day. This blog will be used to update and communicate progress of the fund-raising efforts of the official Komen National Race for the Cure's Team Heather website. It’s the only way to see our daunting $30,000 goal come true.)

During the other months of the year, the overarching goal of this blog and the Team Heather awareness effort is to educate, inform, empower, enlighten, strengthen, lift, and motivate breast cancer survivors facing personal battles with breast cancer, no matter where they are in the process of treatment and recovery. I maintain that it is essential to provide an abundance of resources to breast cancer survivors, in order to make their search for answers, their need for support, and their ability to fight more practical and successful through one, concentrated tool.

It is my goal to make this blog a storage-house of information, where individuals will be pointed in any number of directions in order to help make the important decisions one makes in battling breast cancer.

By the way, my view of a breast cancer survivor is fairly broad, in that I believe if you are an individual newly diagnosed and beginning treatment, an individual who has completed treatment and is newly cancer-free, an individual who has lost the battle with breast cancer, or the co-surviving spouse, parent, sibling, child, grandparent, or grandchild of any of the first three, you are a breast cancer survivor.

The first "links" section of my Team Heather Blog contains specific organizations created to answer questions, provide guidance, offer options, produce research, ease fears, celebrate stories, embrace pro-activity, create communities, and link to further resources for breast cancer survivors of all kinds. In this section you will find websites geared towards individuals from all walks of life, including African American, Hispanic, Gay/Lesbian, White, Disadvantaged, At-risk, Young, Old, Underprivileged, and more. My advice - get lost in these websites.

The second "links" section highlights products, retailers, organizations, efforts, literature, services, gifts, symbols, games, treats, stress-relievers, events, support groups, and alerts that serve to send the message of unity and hope to breast cancer survivors, through pink ribbon and breast cancer awareness-focused avenues. I think you will find phenomenal illustrations inside to demonstrate your dedication and commitment to this fight.

Finally, there is a third "links" section called, "_____ for the Cure," where fund-raising events from all across the country are spotlighted. Obviously, the most recognizable of these events is the national, "Race for the Cure," but there are activities within as diverse as the individuals affected by this disease. Here you will find that you can cut, boogie, crunch, cook, write, shower, ride, quilt, toast , swing, stitch, ski, and more for the cure. Do anything, do something!

I thank you for your support in Team Heather's new awareness effort and I hope you will return again and again to my Team Heather Blog. I invite you also to participate in our fund-raising efforts through joining the Komen National Race for the Cure's Team Heather; look for information on how to do so coming soon.

I thank you on behalf of my sister, Heather, and the thousands and thousands of breast cancer survivors, for your commitment to finding a cure to this indiscriminate disease. Please email me with questions, comments, suggestions, and more at gardnershawn68@aol.com. Together, we can make a difference.

Thanks again,
Shawn

Valentine's Day Message from Komen

2006-02-13T15:18:00.000-08:00

Dear Friend,

Forget "Say it with flowers!" I want to wish you a Valentine's Day with action! I am sending you this card to celebrate hope, courage, strength, love, and ultimately a CURE for breast cancer.

I hope you'll join me in spreading the hope and act today in the fight against breast cancer!

Add your voice to the battle against breast cancer and pass on this wish to others.

Happy Valentine's Day!
P.S. Please forward this message on to all your loved ones!

Taking the "1 in 7" Idea a Step Farther

2006-02-13T05:21:00.000-08:00

In exploring hundreds and hundreds of websites dedicated to supporting, informing, motivating, treating, teaching, empowering, guiding, and arming women in the fight against breast cancer, the quote that best sums up what we are all trying to do comes from the founders of www.breastfriends.com:

"Every woman in America will be touched by breast cancer in her lifetime. One in seven women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. The other six will know her. "

It doesn't get more powerful than that.

I sent an email out to dozens of my friends and family with the link to this blog. I asked them to get lost in it and hit me back with ideas on how to get the message out with the greatest success. One of my friends suggested we put the link to Team Heather in our email's signature. Great idea Caroline! If you enjoy this site, please consider making it part of the signature for either your work or personal email.

I appreciate each of you who come to this blog and would welcome any comments you might have. Feel free to post them on here, or email me at gardnershawn68@aol.com.

Team Heather's New 2006 Honorary Team Captain - Julie Murphy Wells

2006-02-10T16:57:00.000-08:00

Julie Murphy Wells

John McMahon/JohnEBongo Photography (JohnEBongoPhoto@aol.com)

Team Heather is proud to announce our 2006 Komen National Race for the Cure's Honorary Team Captain is the lead singer from "Eddie from Ohio," and my very good friend, Julie Murphy Wells. "EFO" is a local Virginia band with an unwaveringly dedicated following and over 15 years of national touring and CD sales success. They've been called "the greatest band you've never heard of," and their most recent CD, "This Is Me," showcases Julie's amazing talents.

Julie is the Team Captain for Bubba's Buddies, a Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation team organized around her son who was diagnosed with the disease several years ago. To date, Bubba's Buddies has raised over $50,000 for Juvenile Diabetes research and treatment. Last summer, Julie was diagnosed with breast cancer and is now undergoing her last rounds of chemotherapy; remission, here she comes! For those who know and love Julie, we aren't surprised she's tackling this experience with the same faith, courage, humor, and spirit with which she walks through life.

Julie is joined onstage each performance by Robbie Shaefer, Michael Clem, and Eddie Hartness - together they bring down the house. With the recent addition of the Grammy Winning Producer, Lloyd Maines (Dixie Chicks), "EFO" is busier than ever. Their most recent tour is taking them to venues across the country, from Virginia to California, and many places in between. Look for them coming to a stage near you.

Team Heather is proud and humbled to welcome Julie Murphy Wells as our 2006 Honorary Team Captain and we look forward to supporting her every step of the way in her own battle. Thank you Julie and we love you.

EFO's Nine CD's To Date

A Juggler on His Blades - 1992
Actually Not - 1993
I Rode Fido Home - 1995
Big Noise - 1997
Portable EFO Show - 1998
Looking Out the Fishbowl - 1999
Quick - 2001
Three Rooms - 2003
This is Me - 2004

Humorous (Yes, Humorous!) Books about Battling Breast Cancer

2006-02-10T09:42:00.000-08:00

Of all the amazing women I know who have done battle with breast cancer (my sister, my mother, my friends, my coworkers, my relatives) there is one thing they all have in common - they faced their battle with humor as a weapon.

My sister Heather had to have her fake Billy Bob teeth in before going to chemotherapy, my mother Becky proudly shows off her 5 breast tattoos (used to line up her radiation), my friend Julie sent out, as her Christmas cards, a picture of her, her husband, and their two boys, all proudly donning bald heads. Humor is a MUST when facing the fear, pain, and mystery of breast cancer.

Books that tackle breast cancer are few and far between. No one wants to put "laughter" and "breast cancer" in the same sentence - yet the books on the list below do so and do so with great success. Please think about picking up one of these books for a woman in your life in the midst of her own fight - I think you'll find it will be her most favorite gift.

Team Heather's Website from The National Race for the Cure - 2005

2006-02-04T16:17:00.000-08:00

Thought it would be cool to link to Team Heather from 2005's Komen National Race for the Cure. Out of over 1000 teams, we came in 3rd in fundraising. 2006, here we come!

Bumper Stickers That Matter

2006-02-04T15:06:00.000-08:00

There are so many damn bumper stickers here in Washington, D.C. that announce everything from, "My 5 Year Old is on the Honor Roll at Pre-School," "My Other Car is a Broomstick," "Visualize World Peas," and "Your Tailgating is Really Bothering my Phone Call."

Heck, Chris and I have even joined the bumper sticker craze this week when we ordered, "This Teacher Gives W an F," "My Dog is Smarter Than Your President," "January 20, 2009 - The End of an Error," and "W - The Bigot."

But I think it's time we slap something on our Range Rovers, SUV's, H-3's, and BMW's that really makes a difference. Here are some links to a number of fantastic Breast Cancer Awareness bumper stickers sites where you can order your stickers right online.

Drop $3 on a bumper sticker with a good message for a change, not just another "I'd Rather Be Fishing!" Here are a couple options:

http://www.cafepress.com/shop/bumper-stickers/browse/store/yoadrienneaz.33214243 - Breast Cancer Isn't Prejudice

http://www.cafepress.com/cp/browse/store/grannygear.

29685331 - Breast Cancer Sucks
http://www.cafepress.com/tshirtsheaven.29019107 - One In Seven

http://www.cafepress.com/shop/wire/browse/store/

scarebaby.29432875 - Hope

http://www.cafepress.com/tshirtsheaven.22769223 - Simple Breast Cancer Ribbon

http://www.flagline.com/id91F16 - Survivor

Words Left by Heather on My Computer at Work

2006-02-04T14:47:00.000-08:00

I love you …….heather

Famous People (Women AND Men) Who've Battled or Who are Battling Breast Cancer

2006-02-04T11:39:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be powerful to see the names of quite a few familiar individuals who've had to battle breast cancer over the years. Many of them are alive and 100% cancer-free and some of them lost their lives to this indiscriminating disease - yet they are all survivors! They, like my sister Heather, didn't allow the cancer to break their spirits or lessen their faith. The true definition of a "survivor!"

Survivors Currently Battling Breast Cancer

Carol Martineau Baldwin, mother of the acting Baldwin brothers and founder of the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Care Center of the University Hospital and Medical Center at Stony Brook.
Allyce Beasley, American TV/comedic actress
Anastacia, African-American singer
Eileen Brennan, American actress
Diahann Carroll, African-American actress, singer
Julia Child, famous TV cook, known as The French Chef (beat breast cancer and died of natural causes at age 91)
Diana Douglas (Darrid), former actress; ex-wife of Kirk Douglas; mother of Michael Douglas
Elizabeth Anania Edwards, lawyer; wife of John Edwards (former Democrat U.S. Senator from North Carolina)
Jill Eikenberry, American actress
Linda Ellerbee, Texas-born journalist
Melissa Etheridge, American singer and prominent lesbian
Edie Falco, American stage and TV actress
Peggy Fleming, American figure skater
Betty Ford, former First Lady
Maria Friedman, British actress
Sheila Hancock, British actress
Julie Harris, legendary American stage actress
Laura Ingraham, right-wing radio host/pundit
Molly Ivins, Texan journalist
Kate Jackson, American actress
Ann Jillian, American actress, entertainer
Jennifer Jones, American Oscar-winning star actress
Sondra Locke, American actress
Rue McClanahan, American TV/stage actress
Kylie Minogue, Australian singer, actress
Alla Nazimova, Russian-born American stage and film actress who survived breast cancer (died at 66 of a coronary thrombosis in 1945)
Phyllis Newman, TV and Broadway actress/singer; widow of Adolph Green
Olivia Newton-John, UK/Australian singer/actress
Jerri Nielsen, American physician who famously treated herself for breast cancer while stuck in the South Pole after discovering a lump on her breast
Cynthia Nixon, American stage and TV actress
Aimee Osbourne, UK-born daughter of Sharon Osbourne; treated surgically in the UK
Nancy Priddy, mother of actress Christina Applegate
Sandra Day O'Connor, first female U.S. Supreme Court Justice
Nancy Reagan, former U.S. First Lady
Lynn Redgrave, British/American actress
Kathleen Reynolds, wife of former Irish taoiseach, Albert Reynolds
Wendy Richard, British actress
Cokie Roberts, American journalist
Margaretta Fitler Murphy Rockefeller, American socialite
Betty Rollin, author, retired TV correspondent
Richard Roundtree, male African-American actor
Soraya, Colombian-born musician/singer
Jean Simmons, British-born U.S. actress
Carly Simon, American singer
Jaclyn Smith, American actress, businesswoman
Brett Somers, Canadian-born U.S. actress, TV personality
Suzanne Somers, American actress
Gloria Steinem, American feminist activist; stepmother of Christian Bale
Gloria Stuart, legendary American actress
Shirley Temple, American former child star/former Republican diplomat
Ann Veneman, former head of the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture
Marcia Wallace, American comedic actress

Survivors Lost to Breast Cancer

Ingrid Bergman, Oscar-winning star actress (died on 67th birthday)
Bibi Besch, actress (died at age 56)
Rose Bird, California judge (died at age 63)
Carina Bleeth, mother of actress Yasmine Bleeth (died at age 47)
Vanessa Brown, actress (died at age 71)
Coral Browne, actress (died at age 77)
Judith Campbell Exner, JFK relationship-related celebrity (died at age 65)
Rachel Carson, American environmentalist and author (Silent Spring) (died at age 56)
Norma Crane, American actress (died at age 44)
Linda Creed, songwriter (died at age 37)
Bette Davis, Oscar-winning star actress (died at age 81)
Sandra Feldman, former president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) (died at age 65)
Sophie Germain, French mathematician (died at age 55)
Gloria Grahame, Oscar-winning actress (died at age 57)
Lady Augusta Gregory, Irish nationalist landowner (died at age 80)
Florence Halop, American comedienne/comedic actress (died at age 63)
Judy Holliday, Oscar-winning star actress (died at age 43)
Jeanne Hyde, wife of U.S. Congressman Henry Hyde
Jill Ireland, British actress, wife of Charles Bronson (died at age 54)
Caron Keating, Northern Irish celebrity (died at age 41)
Marie Keating, mother of Ronan Keating
Kathy Keeton, Penthouse publisher and wife of Bob Guccione (died at age 58 of surgical complications)
Virginia Clinton Kelley, mother of President Bill Clinton (died at age 71)
Susan G. Komen, breast cancer activist (died at age 36)
Helen Gorman Kushnick, Hollywood producer (died at age 51)
Joi Lansing, actress (died at age 44)
Frances Lear, ex-wife of Norman Lear
Juliette Gordon Low, Founder of Girls Scouts of the USA (died at age 67)
Lady Linda McCartney, singer, activist, wife of Paul McCartney (died at age 56)
Mary Mohin McCartney, mother of Sir Paul McCartney
Hattie McDaniel, actress (died at age 57)
Roseann Murtha O'Donnell, mother of Rosie O'Donnell
Klara Pölzl, mother of Adolf Hitler (died at age 47)
Minnie Riperton, singer, mother of Maya Rudolph (died at age 31)
Rod Roddy, male radio and television announcer (died at age 66)
Roxie Roker, actress, mother of Lenny Kravitz (died at age 66)
Rosalind Russell, star actress (died at 69)
Wendie Jo Sperber, actress (died at age 47)
Dusty Springfield, songwriter/singer (died at age 60)
Doris Jones Stein, philanthropist (mother of Susan Shiva)
Susan Stein-Shiva, philanthropist (daughter of Doris Stein)
Susan Strasberg, actress (died at age 60)
Jacqueline Susann, writer (died at age 56)
Louise Troy, American actress (died at age 60)
Danitra Vance, actress (died at age 40)
Vivian Vance, actress, singer (died at age 70)
Suzie Wilson, mother of actress Mara Wilson

Write a Letter to the President Asking Him to Fund Breast Cancer Research

2006-01-30T11:01:00.000-08:00

Action Alert!

This year, more than 40,000 women will die from breast cancer. We are making a difference right now, and so can you! Just visit www.ActNowEndBreastCancer.org and sent a letter to the President and Congress thanking them for extending the life of the Breast Cancer Research Stamp. This simple effort has generated over $34.5 million for breast cancer research.

With the State of the Union around the corner, and millions of Americans tuning in to listen, let's express our hope that the President includes funding for breast cancer research in his priorities for the coming year. As President Bush prepares to address the nation, join me and thousands of others in urging him to use this forum to help educate Americans about the importance of breast cancer programs. Send your letter today!

Please join me, Team Heather, and our friends and family. Click here to send your free letter. www.ActNowEndBreastCancer.org

All of us, united together, can make a difference in the lives of women and families facing breast cancer. Send your letter today.

Thanks!
Shawn

Heather Gardner Starcher

2006-01-29T13:55:00.000-08:00

Team Heather Sets The Goal For 2006 And The National Race For The Cure

2006-01-26T08:13:00.000-08:00

Team Heather $30 K - 2006 (TH30K06)

Team Heather 2005 Places Third out of over 1000 Teams, Raising over $27,500

As you may know, the 17th annual Susan G. Komen National Race for the Cure® is on June 3, 2006. The National Race for the Cure® is the largest 5K in the world. This will be the 6th consecutive year Team Heather, a team created in honor of my sister, Heather Gardner Starcher, has participated in this deeply satisfying and consequential experience. We are determined to surpass our fundraising efforts of last year, where, with the help of folks like you, Team Heather raised over $27,500. Please think about making your philanthropic efforts for 2006 be Team Heather and the National Race for the Cure®. Thank you and $30,000, here we come!

I thought it might help those of you who never met Heather, to learn a bit about her. She was my youngest sister. Heather was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer at age 25 and participated in the National Race for the Cure® in 2001 and 2002. Heather offered herself up to speak around Northeast Ohio on the importance of early detection and treatment for breast cancer.

As a big sister in the Big Brothers & Big Sisters Program® for over six years, and as a volunteer counselor for children with disabilities at Camp Wonderlung, Heather was determined to help improve the quality of life for those less fortunate. It is no small wonder that her desire to make a difference in the lives of the disadvantaged merged perfectly with her the fight against breast cancer and her passion for The Komen National Race for the Cure. Here, monies raised go to providing underprivileged women with the financial assistance to battle this deadly disease.

Heather’s intense desire to inform and educate other women, young and old alike, on the dangers of emerging breast cancer guided her decision to proudly go wigless and hatless throughout her treatment. At 26, and recently married, Heather lost the battle with breast cancer she had been fighting for over a year and a half.

I would be honored if you aided in Heather’s ongoing battle in 2006, by either joining Team Heather as a member, or donating to the cause in the name of Team Heather.

How are you making a difference and leaving your mark right now? There are three ways to do just that in supporting Team Heather and the fight against breast cancer. 1) Join Team Heather; 2) Sponsor Team Heather; 3) Spread the message of Team Heather. Doing one of these is great, doing two or three of these will all but ensure that we reach our fundraising goal of $30,000 in 2006.

Please think first about joining the team. By becoming a member of Team Heather you will have the opportunity to help raise funds through your very own website set up for you on the National Race for the Cure’s® website. It doesn't matter if you can physically make it to the race on June 3, 2006 or not. Your participation as a team member, raising funds for an issue that touches so many lives, will help the mothers, sisters, daughters, wives, grandmothers, aunts, cousins, friends, and coworkers of all of us.

If joining the team and raising funds is just not something you are able to do at this time, please think about donating to Team Heather. By donating any amount of money, you will receive the satisfaction of contributing to the fight against breast cancer. You will also help to propel this tiny little team into the ranks of the big boys. We consistently raise more money than every bank, university, embassy, branch of the military, lobbying group, sports team, and other larger organizations, year after year.

No matter what you do, PLEASE forward this appeal and information to those in your address book who would be interested in joining the fight. There will be no way we can raise $30,000 without your help in some way.

Directions for either joining Team Heather or donating to the team will be coming shortly on this website. Even though the race is in June, the sooner you decide to participate in some way the sooner Team Heather will meet the required numbers to qualify for the 2006 National Race for the Cure®.

Thank you very much for your consideration and thank you for your efforts to end this devastating disease. We love and miss you tremendously Heather!

You CAN make a difference. PLEASE act now!

I Run For Life - Melissa Ethridge

2006-01-26T00:01:00.000-08:00

It's been years since they told her about it
The darkness her body possessed
And the scars are still there in the mirror
Everyday that she gets herself dressed
Though the pain is miles and miles behind her
And the fear is now a docile beast
If you ask her why she is still running
She'll tell you it makes her complete

I run for hope
I run to feel
I run for the truth
For all that is real
I run for your mother your sister your wife
I run for you and me my friend
I run for life

It's a blur since they told me about it
How the darkness had taken its toll
And they cut into my skin and they cut into my body
But they will never get a piece of my soul
And now I'm still learning the lesson
To waken when I hear the call
And if you ask me why I am still running
I'll tell you I run for us all

I run for hope
I run to feel
I run for the truth
For all that is real
I run for your mother your sister your wife
I run for you and me my friend
I run for life

And someday if they tell you about it
If the darkness knocks on your door
Remember her remember me
We will be running as we have before
Running for answers
Running for more

I run for hope
I run to feel
I run for the truth
For all that is real
I run for your mother your sister your daughter your wife
I run for you and me my friend
I run for life

Heather's Wedding

2006-01-25T15:22:00.000-08:00

My Sister - Heather

2006-01-25T01:04:00.000-08:00

After Heather and Jason's Wedding

2006-01-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

National Race for the Cure 2005 - Heather's Team

2006-01-24T23:40:00.000-08:00

National Race for the Cure 2004 - Team Heather

2006-01-24T22:40:00.000-08:00

National Race for the Cure 2002 - Heather's Team

2006-01-24T21:30:00.000-08:00

National Race for the Cure 2002 - Heather's Family

2006-01-24T21:20:00.000-08:00

Becky - Heather's Mom and a Breast Cancer Survivor (on left)

2006-01-23T15:43:00.000-08:00

Heather and Her Sister, Renee

2006-01-22T22:52:00.000-08:00

Heather's Family - 2002

2006-01-22T15:51:00.000-08:00

Heather's Family

2006-01-22T15:49:00.000-08:00

Heather and Her Grandparents and Siblings

2006-01-21T23:53:00.000-08:00

Team Heather's Goals - 2003-2005

2006-01-21T15:47:00.000-08:00

My Words at Heather's Funeral

2006-01-20T11:51:00.000-08:00

Words About Heather

Thank you each for being here. All of you are celebrating Heather’s life with us because you each, in your own way, traveled through this journey with her. You prayed for her, cried over her, empowered her or been empowered by her. You showered Heather with the kind of love that sustained her spirit and we thank you. And so I want to share with you a couple of thoughts on behalf of the Gardner and Starcher families.

You each know the courage and faith Heather demonstrated throughout her fight over the past year and a half. We take comfort in this and also in the belief that Heather did not have to physically conquer her illness to beat it. Heather overcame this disease time and time again with each challenge she faced. Oh yes, we saw Heather beat this disease.

We saw her beat it in the way she steeled herself when finding out her diagnosis. We saw her beat it with her reaction to finding out she would not be able to conceive – "we’ll adopt". We saw her beat it when she went to work at the same time she took chemo and
radiation. We saw her beat it in the way she rebounded after finding out it spread. And we saw her beat it each time she put in her Billy Bob teeth to make someone laugh.

Heather’s spirit did more than beat this disease, it destroyed it.

Heather felt all would be worthwhile if a miracle was born out of her challenges and suffering. We saw many miracles amid all the pain.

We saw a miracle in people coming back into the church or finding faith where they did not think they had any. We saw a miracle in the hundreds and hundreds of people praying daily for Heather. We saw a miracle in family members finding each other again or strengthening their bonds. We saw a miracle in Heather’s medical professionals taking strength in the unique way she approached her disease. And we saw a miracle in people becoming more educated on and active in the fight against breast cancer.

Heather’s faith was the foundation of her spirit and to witness these and other miracles is to see through the heartache to the beauty in Heather’s experience. Take your example for faithfulness from Heather. Each day, she held herself in the belief that God does not give you more than you can handle. And through even the toughest of times, Heather strengthened her faith when others might have questioned theirs.

A friend once told me a spirit that shines brightly is the one not meant to be with us long. This was a hard concept for us to understand. But when we look back, Heather’s spirit was blinding. In her 26 years, she experienced:

a lifetime’s worth of laughter and joy,
a lifetime’s worth of faith,
and a lifetime’s worth of love – after all, she met her soul mate in Jason.

So we can miss Heather and be sad for our loss, but Heather would never allow us to feel sorry for her. Feeling sorry for Heather is the antithesis of the way she lived her life, and if you knew anything about Heather, you would not dare do anything to make her mad. She was difficult when angered here on Earth, can you imagine angering her now?

I guess the last thing I wish to leave you with is the sense of Heather. She will be with us each and every day. She will be all around us. Along with organizing the grandest of bingo games, Heather will be our greatest advocate. Heather will look down to make sure that Jason is protected and has a beautiful life, that her two families find strength they didn’t know they had, and that her girlfriends carry on in her name. She will look down and empower us when we are lonely and be there with us at night when we awake. And anywhere there is beauty, there you will find Heather. She was defined by butterflies, angels, dragonflies and the symbol she grew to love, the breast cancer ribbon. So each time you see one of these:

think of our Heavenly angel,
take comfort in the way she lived her life and in the peace she found through her faith,
and smile knowing Heather is up there taking charge of those looking down on you.

Heather in The Akron Beacon Journal

2006-01-18T14:42:00.000-08:00

Heather (Gardner) Starcher

On September 29, 2002, Heather (Gardner) Starcher, our 26-year-old newly wedded angel, wife of Jason Starcher and daughter of Robert and Rebecca Gardner, became our Heavenly angel as she left us to be with our Lord. On April 20, 2002, two families were united as Heather Gardner married Jason Starcher. These two families became one long before Heather’s wedding day though, as "Team Heather" was formed in early 2001 upon her diagnosis of breast cancer. Heather may no longer be with us, but she won her battle over cancer with each of her smiles that lit a room, in each of her heart-felt laughs, through every person she touched with her strength, and in the grace, faith and fortitude with which she met her enormous challenges.

Heather, a 1994 graduate of Manchester High School and a 1999 graduate of The University of Akron, made it a purpose in life to lighten the hearts of others with her smile and her warm touch. As a member of St. Francis De Sales Parish, Heather drew on her faith and prayer with the onset of each new obstacle. It was Heather’s family and friends that helped her to be able to stay positive, but it was undoubtedly Heather’s belief in God that enabled her to touch so many.

Heather added her own special influence to the Gardner Insurance Agency, where she worked with her father, Robert, for over six years. It was her career goal to succeed her father and assume the ownership of the agency. Heather greeted each new face with a welcoming air and took quality time to speak with clients and professionals alike.

Heather participated in The National Race for the Cure in Washington, D.C. for the past two years and offered herself to speak around Northeast Ohio on the importance of early detection and treatment for breast cancer. As a big sister, in the Big Brothers & Big Sisters Program for over six years, Heather was excited to help improve the quality of life for one less fortunate. It was a goal of Heather’s to make her little sister, Jolene, feel wanted and loved and Heather was dedicated to that effort. Heather also felt extremely fortunate to work with children with disabilities as a volunteer counselor for Camp Wonderlung. Heather enjoyed the escape she provided these very special children.

Heather leaves behind, to go on in her spirit, her dedicated and beloved husband of five months, Jason Starcher of Akron; parents, Robert and Rebecca Gardner of Akron; brother, Shawn Gardner of Washington, D.C.; sister, Renee Gardner of Jacksonville, FL; grandparents, Harvey and Flora Bridgeman of Dennison, OH; parents in law, Roland and Sandra Starcher of Akron; brother in law and sister in law, Scott and Dee Green and nephews, Logan and Nicholas, all of Akron; brother in law and sister in law, Sean and Jennifer Starcher and nieces, Morgan and Miranda, all of Akron; her indomitable circle of best friends, Jennifer Soles, Julie Carpenter, Tracy Young, Angela Rea and Raeal Moore, all of Akron and Columbus; and many many relatives and friends.

Along with countless others who prayed for her, laughed with her, cried over her and were touched by her larger-than-life spirit, the lives of these twenty-two relatives will forever be changed by having witnessed the courage in Heather’s battle. All but Heather’s spirit was taken from her, and so it is in this that we endeavor to embrace the beauty, joy and love of life and family. We will forever love and miss you Heather, our Heavenly angel, until we see each other again.