Blogging
is a funny thing.
Writers
spill their heart, soul – and their entire life,
really – onto a blank canvas in their own little corner of the internet, and,
subsequently, people read, follow along, and become invested in the stories and
happenings of the blogger.
Readers
feel as if they actually know the blogger – even if they’ve never met – and, in
fact, true friendships are made and entire communities are built…all behind the
screens of tablets, PCs, and cell phones.
And that
inherent connection is taken to a whole different level when the readers are
bloggers themselves. We come to know each other’s families, interests, and even
pet peeves.
That’s
precisely what happened with Holly Bertone and me.
Over a
year ago, I crossed paths with Holly – a blogger who lives in Virginia – on a
blog networking site, which led me to her blog, and I was immediately drawn in
by Holly’s content and colorful photos.
But one
photo in particular revealed Holly’s character in a way that few others could:
It depicted Holly, eyes closed and smiling, being kissed by her husband on her
closely shaved head:
Holly,
who is a step-mom, author, and avid DIYer, is also a breast cancer survivor.
Her
lifestyle blog, The Coconut Head’s Survival Guide,
offers a unique blend of posts on tablescapes, recipes, and more, and also
candidly details her efforts to beat a devastating disease.
So when
Holly inquired if Scott and I would like to collaborate with her on a breast
cancer awareness public service announcement (PSA), we answered with a
resounding yes.
Scott
then called up the Detroit Lions (whom he played for from 1991-1996) and asked
if they’d be willing to provide two NFL footballs for a PSA photo, which they did
immediately, and then I interviewed Holly for a blog post (which you can read here) that she and I would cross-promote on each other’s
blogs – in addition to the PSA photo – for the entire month of October.
Here’s
the finished product:
I know, I
know: Everything is awash with pink this time of year, and there’s seemingly no
shortage of messages championing this cause.
In the
NFL alone, players don pink mouth guards, towels, socks, and cleats all month
long. And field turf and game balls are
adorned with pink ribbons.
And
rightfully so.
Awareness
still needs to be raised.
Because women
like Holly – wives, mothers, daughters, and
friends – who put on a brave face while enduring the unthinkable deserve to be
acknowledged and honored.
Because they
truly are warriors.
Because,
all too often, we – their supporters – draw our strength from them.
And if a humorous
PSA prompts even one woman to get a mammogram, or another person to do
something to support the cause of finding a cure for breast cancer, that’s
fantastic.
So, yeah.
Let us all continue to paint everything pink.
Blogs, footballs, and everything
in between.

Great post! Thanks for sharing Holly's story! My grandmother was a survivor and so is my mother. I feel like everyone knows someone affected by breast cancer but we still have to educate women about preventative measures. Early detection is key! Save the tatas!
ReplyDeleteThanks SO VERY MUCH, for not only taking a moment to comment, but to also share a bit about yourself. Again, thank you. And, yes, this disease affects all of us in some way...
DeleteAnd, yes, #SaveTheTatas!!!!
xo
Hi Courtney - Oh my goodness, this brought tears to my eyes. Happy tears that your family has helped to put the message out there in such a sweet way. And then I see Scott's silly grin with those footballs and it makes me smile. Many thanks to you and your family. Blessings to all of you! Hugs, Holly
ReplyDeleteYou are most welcome, Holly. Really, you are. CONTINUED blessings to you and your family, and I wish you nothing short of a lifetime full of health and happiness. <3
Deletexo