<![CDATA["Cause I Can" Judith Cantor's fundraising projects - Blog]]>Fri, 11 May 2012 17:16:39 +1100Weebly<![CDATA[May 2012]]>Sat, 12 May 2012 12:08:08 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2012/05/may-2012.htmlWalking to win

Both last month and this month's challenges have involved walking. Walking to commemorate. Walking to symbolise. Walking to win.

Why walking to win? 

Because by making people aware of both kids with arthritis and breast cancer is a win in itself. But more poignantly, walking to raise money that can fund research into beating these diseases is a huge win. I live in hope of a world without either of them.

On 22 April I took part in the first William's Walk, an event put on by Arthritis NSW to honour the memory of little William Harris who died, age 6, from complications with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. Most people don't know kids can also get arthritis - it's not just an "old person's" disease.

Over 500 registrants congregated at the south end of iconic Bondi Beach for a morning of entertainment, education and exercise before setting off towards Bronte.

Lauren Harris, William's mum, gave the most heartwarming speech about William, what it was like for him to have arthritis, and more importantly, what a wonderfully warm, engaging and courageous boy he was. There wasn't a dry eye around, especially when she told us to look out for William as he'd probably be hitching a ride on someone's shoulder or walking alongside us.

Arthritis NSW nearly reached their fundraising goal of $60,000, which was phenomenal. As Vice-President of the organisation's board, I can tell you how proud we all are of this achievement. It means so many more children with arthritis will learn to better cope with their illness through attending Camp Twinkletoes, as will their parents and siblings. It will also hopefully mean that a cure will be found soon.

A warm 'thank you' for the part you played in this whether it be giving it a thought, sharing the information with someone else or making a donation. It meant a lot.

This Sunday, on Mother's Day, I'll be taking part in the Mother's Day Classic - a walk around Sydney's beautiful Botanic Gardens - with my mum and sister. It's become something of an institution in our family: standing strong with thousands and thousands of others around Australia to show our support for breast cancer research. We've all been affected by people in our family and circle of friends who have had, or still have cancer. 

Haven't you?

If you aren't able to attend this special morning with us but still want to show you support the cause too, please consider making a donation. You can do this here. 
The National Breast Cancer Foundation are currently funding projects into preventing disease with researchers like Professor Melissa Southey (VIC), Dr Andy Redfern (WA) and Dr Sam Oakes (VIC).

I have absolutely no doubt your gift, no matter how small or large, will make a significant difference to the fight against this pernicious and insidious disease.

As with William's Walk in April, I'll only be able to amble tomorrow (owing to ongoing ill health) and have opted for the short 4km walk. Rest assured that this, by no means, shows a lack of interest, initiative or support. We need to understand the causes of cancer, the effects of cancer and conquer it indefinitely.

Join me in the fight?]]><![CDATA[April 2012]]>Mon, 02 Apr 2012 22:32:59 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2012/04/april-2012.htmlBruno goes under the hammer

After a wonderful, whirlwind month of meeting new friends across Sydney, Washington DC, Portsmouth, Annapolis and New York in March, and sharing stories about the awesome disaster relief work of Australian Red Cross, Bruno will be going into retirement. Well, not really. He'll always remind people that other trauma teddies like him make a difference to children who are caught up in disasters - he has an official Red Cross label on his tummy, after all.

You see, one very lucky person or company will soon own Bruno as he's up for auction on eBay!

If you've been moved by his Red Crossing travel stories, or just think he's as gorgeous as I do, and would love to give him a good home, visit http://bit.ly/H5TL6z and put in your bid before Thursday 12 April at 10:21 (and 18 seconds) AEST!

This is who Bruno met on his journey:
  • Peter Singer - acclaimed author, speaker, philosopher and animal activist, Sydney
  • Gill and Neil Lotter - attendees at Happiness and it's Causes Conference, Sydney
  • Ren Hammington - attendee at Dr Ellen Langer workshop, Sydney
  • Kimberley - Deli Bottega, Bondi Beach, Sydney
  • Brian - Qantas First Class Lounge, Sydney
  • Anthony - Omni Shoreham Hotel, Washington DC
  • Susie Jaggard - Senior Writer at IAPP, Washington DC
  • Monique - delegate at Global Privacy Summit, Washington DC
  • Sott and Xavier - Big Vanilla, Annapolis
  • Chelsea - Annapolis
  • Wills Catling - Sales Director at IAPP, Portsmouth
  • Guido and Jessica - Marriott Residence Inn (Downtown), Portsmouth
  • Barbara and Mason - Blue Mermaid restaurant, Portsmouth
  • Jilly Sorrentino - Events Coordinator at IAPP, Portsmouth
  • The Horse - Flatiron District, New York
  • Tanz Oesterling - lead singer of Late Nite Catfight, New York
  • Officer Harrinan - NYPD, Brooklyn, New York
  • Security man - Empire State Building, New York
  • Sheena Medina - Community Manager, FastCompany, New York
  • Platoon Leader Boutros - Grand Central Station, New York
  • Eric - Eric's Shoes on Seventh, New York
  • Jean - taxi driver,  New York
  • Sheelyn - Qantas flight attendant, 45 minutes out of Sydney (mid-air)
  • Captain and 2IC - Qantas, 40 minutes out of Sydney (mid-air)
  • Edo and Jo - beautiful kirtan and world music performers, Sydney
That's 31 people - one for every day of March. Check out their photos here.

Please share this post with others so they can place a bid (or three) and also read more about Bruno's travels at www.the-red-crossing.posterous.com

The Red Crossing general donation page is active until 30 April too. All donations will be most welcome and any over $2 are tax deductible: http://bit.ly/Aok5KP
Picture
Bruno in the coach from Boston to Portsmouth.
]]><![CDATA[March 2012]]>Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:46:43 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2012/02/march-2012.htmlMeet Bruno. Picture
He's an Australian Red Cross Trauma Teddy and, together, we're going to share his story with 31 new friends we cross paths with this March.

What's a Trauma Teddy?

It's a beautifully crafted teddybear made by one of Australian Red Cross' wonderful volunteers. It's lovingly made with the express intention of being given to a child who's been affected by disaster, be they natural or man-made disasters, in Australia or abroad. 

When all that's familiar is abruptly taken away, sometimes a teddybear is all that's needed to feel the tiniest bit more grounded and loved.

Follow our journey via www.the-red-crossing.posterous.com as we have photos taken with the people we meet each day.

And, if you like what we're up to, please do a couple of things for us:
  1. show your support by letting other people know about our blog
  2. open your purse strings so Australian Red Cross can continue providing relief to people affected by disasters 

Donations of all size are most welcome, and remember, anything over $2 is tax-deductible in Australia.

Thank you!
]]><![CDATA[February 2012]]>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:37:23 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2012/02/february-2012.htmlWhat went down in Dee Why

I can't lie to you. Last Saturday wasn't easy. In fact, taking part in the Sun Run was something of a slog. Let me tell you why.

I hadn't been well since Wednesday night (fever, shakes, achy body and sore throat) and deep down I knew I really shouldn't be taking part. The little voice in my head saying the opposite didn't seem to want to go away though. I decided to set my alarm for 5am - the event was due to start at 6.45am in a suburb 45 minutes away on a good day - and make a decision then.

When my alarm went off, I lay in bed contemplating my options and gently moving my limbs to assess the damage. I decided I was going to do it. Dosed up on andrographis and olive leaf extract, I hit the road.

The traffic was shocking and the parking even worse. Thank goodness for Google maps or I wouldn't have found my car afterwards! I made it to the starting line with literally 20 seconds to go - the closest shave I've ever had. 

The lovely thing was that, after days of clouds and rain throughout Sydney, the sun came out. It felt like something of a miracle and I took it to be a sign that I'd made the right decision in doing the run. Well, walk. I was sensible enough not to push my body too far.

It was a gorgeous 6.5km track - with over 4,500 other entrants - along the coastline towards Manly. Spectators were dotted along the way cheering us on. Even Michelle Bridges made an appearance (see photos)!

I was so happy to have taken part. Sadly I landed up at the doctor's surgery on Sunday and am now dosed up with heavier medication, but it was all worth it.

Why?

Because I was doing it for the Australian Conservation Foundation. Without them, and other organisations like them, there's no guarantee we'll be able to walk along such gorgeous landscape in the future. They exist to protect, restore and sustain the environment. They aim to inspire and promote a society which is environmentally aware and responsible. 

This is so important. For us. For the future generations of Australia. Important enough for me to get out of my sick bed!

If you also believe in a green and healthy environment, and enjoy being able to spend time outdoors and admire the beauty, please support the work that they do. Donate today. 

Thanks.

]]><![CDATA[December 2011]]>Wed, 21 Dec 2011 11:46:40 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2011/12/december-20111.htmlAnd how we laughed!

On Monday, four warm and generous Sydneysiders joined me in grabbing a very short window of opportunity - 20 or so minutes of respite from the rain - to laugh. And laugh we did.

I decided to hold a Laughter Yoga session on my birthday in support of the Humour Foundations' Clown Doctors. They do an amazing job cheering up some of our youngest and oldest hospital patients when they're at their most vulnerable. Taking the mickey out of something scary and potentially invasive makes it seem all the more do-able.

They already visit over 100,000 patients a year across the country but really want to be able to head to the hospitals seven days a week. Are you able to help them? 

By making a donation, you can help the Clown Doctors visit even more children in hospital more often and bring them the gift of laughter during stressful and scary moments.

Visit www.gofundraise.com.au/pages/JollyJude and bring joy and relief to thousands of sick children. What a great Christmas present - to yourself or someone you care about!

And to Camilla, Joy, Frances and Matt, thanks for braving the storm... literally! Ho ho ha ha ha! Thanks also to the Chinese tourists and young girl who joined in for a bit too.

Wishing you all a safe, peaceful and fun Festive Season filled with laughter and love. 

Thank you so much for your support over the past year and beyond.

Best,
Judith ]]><![CDATA[December 2011]]>Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:52:26 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2011/12/december-2011.htmlLet's laugh together!

On 19 December it's my birthday and, since I had to miss my original December challenge - the Mud Run - owing to ill health, I thought 'what better way to make it up and celebrate at the same time than to laugh?'!

Years ago I attended a workshop by Dr Kataria, a medical doctor and the founder of Laughter Yoga, and learned all about the benefits of laughter. It's amazing how much of a boost a good laugh can give your body!

And no-one knows this better than the Clown Doctors from The Humour Foundation who visit children with serious illnesses and give them some light, comic relief. 

According to their website, Clown Doctors address the psychosocial needs of the child in hospital in a unique way. By parodying the hospital routine, the Clown Doctors help children feel less traumatised by medical procedures. Oversized medical equipment, 'red-nose' transplants, 'cat' scans, humour checks and funny bone examinations are all part of the fun. By exaggerating intimidating jargon and procedures, fear and anxiety are reduced.

How marvellous! 

I'm sure if you have ever had a seriously ill child in hospital, you'd know how much a visit by one of the Clown Doctors might have made.

Here's how you can help: donate here, or come along to my 30-minute free Laughter Yoga session in Hyde Park on Monday at 1.15pm (meeting at the Archibald Fountain - opposite St Mary's Cathedral) and make a donation there. Or donate here *and* come and laugh! OR donate here, come and laugh AND make a donation there *grin*

It'd be fantastic to get a large, raucous, giggling, guffawing crowd together.

And don't worry, it isn't yoga in the traditional sense - the yogic component is the breathwork of laughing. There will be no bendy movements... unless you feel so compelled!

Feel free to invite others :)

]]><![CDATA[October 2011]]>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:49:52 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2011/10/october-2011.htmlOne more day for One Girl

Last weekend I did it in a dress. Nothing sordid. In fact, something rather silly. 

One Girl, an Australian charity raising money to send girls in Sierra Leone back to school, was running a campaign called Do It In A Dress. They didn't prescribe what the "It" was to be - that was left up to each individual raising money for their cause - but whatever you chose to do, you had to do it wearing a school dress.

I put it to vote. I asked people to add what they'd like to see me do in a school dress on my 'Cause I Can' Facebook page and to vote. My fate was sealed. I had to ride around Centennial Park in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, in my school dress (kindly loaned to me by someone at Queenwood), singing as I pedalled! 

And that's what I did.

On Sunday 23 October, I set off for an hour of spreading the word and, let's face it, embarrassment. It was fun though. And heavy going. Who would've known how much effort it takes to ride a pedal bike solo? I managed two laps - about 8km - in under one hour.

The great thing was people's responses as they pedalled past me on the track. I got quite a few "good onya's" and even had one guy think I actually attended the school! Hmmm, maybe 15-20 years ago... sweet of him nonetheless.

So what was this all really about? 

A belief that by sending just one girl to school for a year in an impoverished third world country makes an enormous difference for her entire community. It's a bid to end global poverty. 

Education = empowerment.

I really, really would like to send at least one girl to school for a year in Sierra Leone, but I'm short of $290. Can you help me reach this goal? Today is the very last day of the campaign so you'll have to be quick. To make a donation, visit my fundraising page and follow the prompts. 

Your generosity can make a world of difference to an entire community. It really can.

To spur you on, have a look at what I looked like as a 30-something year old school girl!


And, thank you. ]]><![CDATA[September/October 2011]]>Thu, 20 Oct 2011 11:47:54 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2011/10/septemberoctober-2011.htmlSunny skies and soaring temps

It's difficult to perceive that my last charity challenge - 9km Bridge Run for St John Ambulance - was a month ago already! Time just seems to be flying... or maybe it's the unbelievably good weather we're experiencing that makes things merge?

The Bridge Run went really well despite the heat - it was 24.6C when I started and 30.1C by the time I finished! Not ideal temps for exercise, but glorious nonetheless. 

My choice of charity was serendipitous given the number of casualties I saw along the track having care administered by St John Ambulance. There seemed to be many more this time which, again, I can only put down to the weather conditions.

Check out my charity

This month, I'm doing something a little frivolous and fun. I've borrowed a Queenwood school uniform to take part in One Girl's #doitinadress fundraiser! After putting it to vote on my 'Cause I Can' Facebook page, it was decided I'll be singing whilst riding around Centennial Park in a pedal car this Sunday in an attempt to raise $400 to send a girl in Sierra Leone to school for a year.

One Girl is all about empowerment. Giving girls in the poverty stricken region the opportunity to learn and therefore make informed choices about their lives. Not only will this enrich the lives of the girls themselves, but their entire communities in turn.

Please help me change the lives of thousands of people by donating to this cause via my fundraising page? 

Think about it: if 160 people gifted the cost of a cup of coffee, we could reach the $400 target and send one girl to school for a year. Or 32 people kindly giving up their daily cup at work for a week. That's only $12.50 a person. 

Please help?

And if you're local to Sydney and have time for a lark on Sunday morning, come along to Centennial Park and join in the fun! First to get there can even hitch a ride on the pedal car. And embarrassing photos and video footage will be most welcome! Friends and family are most welcome. Further details available on my Facebook event.

Hope to see you there!
]]><![CDATA[August 2011]]>Wed, 31 Aug 2011 17:41:44 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2011/08/august-20111.htmlSome say crazy, I say Inspired!

A couple of weeks ago I joined 84,999 other fitness and community enthusiasts for City2Surf - a 14km track from the Sydney CBD to iconic Bondi Beach. Despite having "won" myself a spot in the Red start (read: right up front) through making a relatively substantial donation to The Inspire Foundation and securing a gold race bib, I took it slow this year. I felt somewhat justified given I have whiplash from a hit-and-run accident that happened only a couple of weeks before the race. That, plus I met and walked alongside another gold bib-ber, Laura, from the Centenary Foundation.

Let me tell you, starting at the front was quite an experience... Those guys are fierce! Thankfully I had braced myself for their focused determination and managed to get to the left-hand side of the track early on or I would have been trampled. Even more important since it was drizzling when the gun went off.

What I wasn't prepared for was the waves of participants throughout the 14km course; for each staged start, a field of runners would stampede past me leaving behind an eerie silence and deserted street until the next wave hit. It did mean I could take my time taking photos.

I'm really glad to have been able to celebrate my second anniversary of monthly charity challenges by raising funds and awareness for The Inspire Foundation. They're a great charity that help young people live happy lives through the values of compassion, generosity, inclusiveness, responsibility and fun. Since suicide is the leading cause of death among 14-25 year olds, having people around who care about youth mental health is vital.

I am still really keen to reach my $1,000 goal but time is running out in a big way - it's September tomorrow! And I still have $535 to go... Please could you help me by making a donation today? All you need to do is visit www.everydayhero.com.au/judith_cantor_35 and follow the prompts.

It'd be really fantastic to know that fewer kids are going through dark times, don't you think?
]]><![CDATA[August 2011]]>Wed, 03 Aug 2011 10:51:37 +1100http://www.judithcantor.com/1/post/2011/08/august-2011.htmlSaving surfers in the Shire


It was a cold and windy night... no, it was a clear and frosty morning. A mere 7 degrees. But they came in droves. Over 7,000 people. Why? To take part in the 40th Sutherland2Surf fun run and support Aussie lifesavers!

It was well worth the effort (read: leaving home at 6.30am on a Sunday morning in Winter) though. What a great day! 

After reaching the 2km mark and beginning to feel my hands again, I knew things were going to be okay. By 3km I had stripped down... my gloves, that is. By the time I caught my first glimpses of Cronulla Beach, I was warm and toasty and stayed that way all day.

It was such fun to see a part of Sydney I'd never visited before at the same time as taking the time out to focus on helping others. Given I was the recipient of some lifesaver love over 14 years ago at Tamarama in the East, it was the least I could do!

To find out more about my gruelling, near-drowning tale, visit www.everydayhero.com.au/judith_cantor_5. And while you're there, please, please make a donation? It's so important keeping our beaches safe throughout the year - for Australians as well as visitors.

Thanks so much. I know I may not be here today if it weren't for those lifesavers!

Check out the rest of my fun run photos too. Cronulla really is pretty.
Picture
The prize.
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