Closing Press Release

Relay For Life of Second Life shatters records in 2011, raises US$375,000 for cancer research

Relay For Life, the signature fundraising event of the American Cancer Society, has once again shattered records in Second Life.

Less than halfway through the 2011 Relay season, the Relay For Life of Second Life had already raised more than one million dollars all-time.

At the Wrap-Up Party on Saturday, August 20, 2011 Event Chair MamaP Beerbaum proudly announced that the seventh  Relay For Life of Second Life had set a new season fundraising record of US$375,000, had a record number of 140 teams, and a record number of over 3,000 relayers.

This year’s theme was ‘Seasons of Hope’ and was the largest to date, with a track lined by luminaria winding through 41 sims of amazing builds representing the different seasons. Some 2,140 avatars completed one or more laps, a combined total of 3,486 laps, and visited the campsites and the designer sims. And 4,817 luminaria were lit in support of loved ones going through treatment, and in memory of those heroes who have passed on.

Speaking to committee and team members and volunteers at the Wrap-Up Party, MamaP Beerbaum said:  ‘WOW, What a wonderful Relay we had! From Kick-Off in March to Relay Weekend in July, you all worked non-stop, with a passion and commitment that never wavered!

‘As I think back on this season, I am in awe of so many things. We broke so many records.  We took the theme ‘Seasons of Hope’ to places we never thought it would go. And we brought it to life on 41 sims creating a breathtaking experience for all who found their way there. And most importantly we proved that we really can work together as One Team!

‘Thank you for giving me the honor of being your chair. Thank you for showing the world that SL is a good place, and that in this Second Life of ours, we CAN make a difference.’

Stingray9798 Raymaker ( in real life Jeff Montegut, the American Cancer Society representative in Second Life) said: ‘It makes me the proudest person in the whole ACS office to represent the coolest people on the planet!’

Spirit of Relay

The ‘Spirit of Relay’ individual award went this year to Daaneth Kivioq. Announcing the award, last year’s winner Ember Farina said: ‘The Individual Spirit of Relay is awarded to the individual that embodies the 'Spirit of the Relay' and takes into consideration the 'spirit' of the individual, how they embraced Relay For Life and the American Cancer Society Mission, and the enthusiasm displayed.’

This year, just as Relay was kicking into high gear, Daaneth suffered a debilitating stroke. Ember said: ‘His motivation for a fast recovery was actually Relay for Life! He worried so much about his team that he came back in world before he could even read or type; they all used voice to communicate with him to ensure that the team would keep moving forward.’

Nevar Lobo, co-captain of last year’s winner of the ‘Spirit of Relay’ team award, announced this year's team winner Team OD, followed by Steelhead Salmons in second place and Team Caledon in third place.

For a complete list of Wrap-Up Awards see: http://rflofsl.blogspot.com/2011/08/final-award-winners.html

For more pictures from the Wrap-Up Party see http://www.flickr.com/photos/ishtarskiss/.

Looking ahead

Looking ahead to 2012 MamaP Beerbaum announced that she would be continuing as Event Chair, supported by this year’s Co-Chair Dwen Dooley and new Co-Chair Nikki Mathieson. Nikki, who has been relaying in Second Life since 2007 and was this year’s Event Day area chair, said: ‘It is a tremendous honor to be invited to be a Co-Chair and I really look forward to the upcoming season.’ Her message to Relayers was ‘Keep relaying all winter... Do that by bringing someone... anyone... even if it's just one person who doesn't know about us... to ACS Island and let them know we're here... in SL. Tell them about our RFL season and get them watching for that kick off in the spring... invite them to it... get them excited and enthused to jump onboard with us.’

The Kick-Off for RFL of SL 2012 will be on March 10, 2012. Next year’s theme will be ‘Time for a Cure’. And the clock is already ticking!

MEDIA NOTES

About Relay For Life of Second Life

Relay For Life® is the signature fundraiser of the American Cancer Society. Relay For Life of Second Life (RFL of SL) is an annual activity that takes place in Second Life® in July each year. Volunteers form or join teams to have fun while fundraising and raising awareness from mid-March through mid-July. In July teams build campsites and walk a track, just like in a real world Relay. The main RFL of SL track event this year will take place on July 16-17. In 2010, RFL of SL raised US$222,000 for the American Cancer Society and this season’s total is a record US$375,000. In April 2011 the all-time total amount raised since RFL was launched in Second Life reached one million US dollars. The funds raised go to research, advocacy, patient services and programs, with 12-15% going to international projects. Just as in the real world, RFL of SL is an international event. More than 30 real world countries are represented by team members, volunteers and supporters!

The premier sponsors of Relay For Life of Second Life in 2011 are: Arcanum, ByKay, Peace Haven Communities, and BS’s Bring A Friend.

FOLLOW US on:

Twitter: http://twitter.com/RelayForLife_SL

Facebook:  http://facebook.com/rflofsl

RFL of SL Updates: http://rflofsl.blogspot.com/

For background information and the history of RFL of SL see:

SL Wiki: https://wiki.secondlife.com/wiki/Relay_For_Life_of_Second_Life and

Official RFL of SL website: http://www.relayforlife.org/secondlife

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Poppy Zabelin (2011 RFL of SL PR Chair poppy_zabelin@yahoo.co.uk) or Jennifer Curtau (2011 RFL of SL PR Co-Chair jennifer.curtau@google.com).

Poppy Zabelin

PR/Marketing Area Chair (2011)

Under the Wire Event

 Terran Magic says:

Officially Relay For Life of Second Life 2011 is over, but the fight doesn't Stop just because the kiosks dissappear.  Heroes and Goreans team are pulling out the stops on the weekend of August 26-28 and presenting you with music and dancing that is sure to knock your socks off.

This "Under the Wire Event" will feature Live Artists and DJ's from
all over Second Life..

The Event will run
Friday August 26th from 4-11
Saturday August 27th 8am to 10pm
Sunday August 28th from 8am to 4pm slt.

All Donations will go to Relay For Life of Second Life.

The artists and DJ's all volunteer for this and have selected a phenominal set.  This will prove to be an event to remember.

Love to see you there.




For more info contact Terran Magic.

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Original%20Sin%20Ranch/159/60/21

Cancer Ribbon Colors

 

All Cancers - Lavender
Appendix Cancer - Amber
Bladder Cancer - Marigold/Blue/Purple
Brain Cancer - Grey
Breast Cancer - PinkCervical Cancer - Teal/White
Childhood Cancer - Gold
Colon Cancer - Dark Blue
Esophageal Cancer - Periwinkle
Gallbladder/Bile Duct Cancer - Kelly Green
Head and Neck Cancer - Burgundy/Ivory
Kidney Cancer - Orange
Leiomyosarcoma - Purple
Leukemia - Orange
Liver Cancer - Emerald Green
Lung Cancer - Clear/White
Lymphoma - Lime Green
Melanoma - Black
Multiple Myeloma - Burgundy
Ovarian Cancer - Teal
Pancreatic Cancer - Purple
Prostate Cancer - Light Blue
Sarcoma/Bone Cancer - Yellow
Stomach Cancer - Periwinkle
Testicular Cancer - Orchid
Thyroid Cancer - Teal/Pink/Blue
Uterine Cancer - Peach
Cancer Caregiver Gifts - Plum


Color               Hex

 Amber            #FFBF00
 Black            #000000
 Blue            #0000FF
 Burgundy        #800020
 Dark Blue        #00008B
 Emerald Green        #50C878
 Gold            #FFD700
 Grey            #808080
 Ivory            #FFFFF0
 Kelly Green        #4CBB17
 Lavender        #E6E6FA
 Light Blue        #ADD8E6
 Lime Green        #00FF00
 Marigold        #FF8D00
 Orange            #FFA500
 Orchid            #DA70D6
 Peach            #FFE5B4
 Periwinkle        #CCCCFF
 Pink            #FFC0CB
 Plum            #DDA0DD
 Purple            #800080
 Teal            #008080
 White            #FFFFFF
 Yellow            #FFFF00

Reflection on 4 months

Hi, sorry for being silent for so long, lot's to reflect on.

The journey of the last 4 months, in this my first Relay, has been a journey rich in incredible events, numerous memorable moments and heart warming stories. I've witnessed passion and compassion, unbridled giving of time and effort, all to do one thing, it simply boggles the mind. Our results were staggering.

When Pink Basevi-Charlesworth first recruited me to join Harmony of Hope, from the first team meeting, I never in my wildest imagination expected to be where I am 4 months later.

The Opening Celebrations, at the incredible build of BOSL Football stadium covering 4 SIMs, ~WoW~ I couldn't stop caming around that was an incredible build. I was awestruck. I knew, I was taking part in something fantastic,... but nothing in my wildest imagination could I foresee, what was to come in both the experiencing of Relay and the Relay experience.

Got super excited with Black and White Fashion Faire SIMs, now that was KEWL. I spent many hours wandering that place, felt like one was living in a black and white movie. Spent an afternoon sitting at a cafe chatting with friends, making new ones and of course the shopping! Think it was my most enchanting day during all of Relay.

But not to be out done, when the Fantasy Faire Oº°‘¨POOF¨‘°ºO itself into existence, I swear, it was a jaw dropper! (If you find mine, pls email it back!) Was about here, I realized I need a new computer, as my tired old beast here, just will not do. Spent a lot time here waiting for the "over set" display settings in Phoenix to rez, so I can truly see all the creative wonder. It was worth it. After the Fantasy Faire, I knew, we had some extremely creative people in Relay, but this was slick!!!

And it kept coming, I had a ball time warping back to the 60's at the Sock Hop and Carnival Fair at May Days. Been years since I've been to a fair! And here I was, going to a fair in SL.

As a Relay'er, I hosted parties, held at clubs I called home before RFL. To bring RFL awareness to my community of friends, and spread the word for Relay For Life. I attended as many of Harmony's events and other team events, as my RL would allow. Followed all the group notices and event notices. Even rez'd an event board in front of me for when I would Rez inworld, so it's the first thing I see when logging in. Pathetic, huh?

Then there was all the social media work I did; first for Harmony of Hope and a bit later when I was asked to join the PR/Marketing Committee. All the friends I made, blogging and tweeting, seeing all the good and incredible work 1,000s, and 1,000s of people are doing, around the world, and in my RL community, all in this fight. The support groups, non profit organizations and individuals and how they bring their passion to the plate, was something I wasn't quite prepared for. Knew it was there, just not the scope and I only know a fraction of it still.

Between that, and the "Why I Relay" statements and recordings that crossed my desk, I've cried. Throw in a speech from Tali Walmar at the opening ceremonies, or BOOTEDGIRL Foxtrot at the closing ceremonies, throw in several Mamap, Dwen and Stingray's words, all of the radio and streaming media people, and their interviewees of people in Relay along the way, I've cried buckets.

But I don't cry out of sorrow, well yes, partially sorrow, I guess? I cry 'Happy Tears' along with you. I cry because of the fortitude you all share, the "joy the vie" and willingness to shoulder on. I cry because it is truly remarkable, the hope we all put forth. It's like this unstoppable force of nature. Either get out of its way, or admire it for what it is and nourish yourself from it.

And then the big finally. The 24+ hour Relay. By this point I've heard 100's of people talk about the Relay in SL and I wasn't quite sure what to expect for my self, and suddenly there it was, 40 SIMs BIG! A Relay track that spanned 34 SIMs. Took me just under an hour to walk one lap.

Walked about 1-1/2 laps before Relay, 4 complete laps during Relay and started on, dozens more; but, you know how it goes,... get distracted by a shout from someone, a yellow dot in the radar and you just have to stop and see them to celebrate with them. Loved looking at the SL map and seeing all those dots, so kewl. I'd really like to see the numbers from LL on this Event.

When I did my last lap, just before closing ceremonies, I was noticing how many of the Luminaries were lit. I began to read them, one after another and that were I lost it. All along I “knew” all the while 'why' we all do this. But there it was right there at my feet when it hit me, endless reasons of 'why', covering SIM, after SIM, after SIM. All glowing with their unique brilliance, of the souls they represent,... and it was beautiful, yet so devastating. RFLofSL is a microcosm of RL and the millions around the world, this represents in every sense, was my tipping point. Everything that happens after this point was pure and total emotional overload.

And this is also where I go speechless, because I still do not have the words for what ‘all this means’ to me.

I know, I am not the same person I was 4 months ago. But beyond that, I do not know. Even my avatar having a bit of an identity crisis, having lost tail and hair until the start of RFLofSL 2012, for the honor of your brilliant dedication and accomplishment.

I do feel a bit of a loss with nothing to do. Sure that will pass, as I am taking a bit of leap of faith. I'm hoping to return to school this fall for a 2 year program in Advertising with a heavy slant on web presence. It was going to be more programming and stuff side of things, but after doing what I did in the last 4 months, I know were I belong.

I do have ideas for next year, I need to get it together, but I'm gonna wait, as I don't know how the off season goes,.. I'm probably just jumping the gun as always.

But still, I search my inner self, asking: "what "all of this" means"? Many questions, dam few answers at the moment, but the quest continues,...

I am so proud of all of you, WE DID GOOD!

HUGz Jennifer

Harmony of Hope Campsite

Random Padar says:

A child's Snow Globe invites us into a world of innocent winter and leads us on a journey through one persons struggle against a terrifying disease. 

Explore the Snowglobe village with it's information kiosks, and medical pavillion. 

Then ride a snowflake to watch The Longest Winter unfold. 

Each level expressing the emotional toil of the desparate battle against a killer. 

To find, at last, a victory in the realization that fear is the worst enemy and the future is as certain as you make it. 

A message of hope eternally budding even in the Longest Winter.

Random Padar, Team Captain, Harmony of Hope

RFL of SL Track preview

Hello media friends,

On behalf of the Relay For Life of Second Life Committee I am delighted to invite you to preview the Relay For Life of Second Life sims on Friday, July 15. The sims will be open to Relay teams, survivors, caregivers, volunteers, and members of the SL press from 10:00am on Friday - 24 hours before the Opening Ceremonies.

To gain access please join the SL's RFL Volunteers group, if you are not already a member (as I know many of you are). The group is open access, you do not need an invitation.

Here is the SLURL, which will take you to the Welcome Center where you can pick up a copy of the Visitors Guide: http://slurl.com/secondlife/RELAY%20FOR%20LIFE/94/124/22.

Please take advantage of this invite to explore the sims at your own pace and in your own time. Should you have any questions or want to schedule an interview with any of the members of the organizing committee, or others, please let me know.

Enjoy! And Go RELAAAAAY!

Poppy

Poppy Zabelin
RFL of SL 2011
PR/Marketing Area Chair

~ OMG ~

Thursday, 16 June 2011

Mega Challenge
OK here's the deal.

Relay for Life of Second Life fund raising Season of Hope is 30 day from being over. I see that amazing total we have done and I am stunned to see it top $200,000 USD all ready. ~WoW~

So my little challenge is this, several people including ours truly, will go BALD and more until the start of next year's Relay For Life of Second Life season for 2012

IF

we manage to raise $325,000 USD this year in this last month in this Season of Hope.

Here's what we have committed:
Jacqueline Brianna Bald until RFL2012
Vickie A. Maidstone Bald until RFL2012
Rose Dreadlow Bald until RFL2012
Tahisha Fairplay will give up fur for human until RFL2012
Jennifer Curtau will go Bald and give up Neko for human until RFL2012


Sunday, 10 July 2011 (today)

Jacqueline, Vivkie, Rose, Tahisha and I, are sitting delightfully, nervously, at this years outstanding efforts by everyone, and wondering how this week will end,....

6 days until Relay,

Grand total so far $288,000 US

Bless you all.

Relay Schedule

Well I cannot believe how fast these last 4 months have gone, but here we are, 11 days until WE The People of Second Life, will Relay For Life, on July 16-17th.

Everyone busy with these preparations and the buzz is truly amazing. Builders are going crazy building their teams campsite, and everyone getting their last RFL events completed for what is the climax of these last 4 months.

Everyone secretly wondering what this years total will be, and SO AM I.

SO, if you haven't seen the ACS RFL of SL web site this week, you might want to take a peek at the total raised so far. Last year we raised $222,000 US funds for RFL. On Monday (with 12 days to go) the total was updated for this year and the unofficial total now sits at $225,384 US funds!!!! WooooT!

This alone is an amazing testament to the 100's of teams and the 1,000's of volunteers.

Anyhow, here is the hour by hour laps, being planned for Relay Weekend

Jennifer Curtau

10am - 11am  - Opening Ceremonies

11am - 12:30pm - CELEBRATE - Survivor/Caregiver Honor Walk  - Survivors Are the "Spirit Of Relay" They Are the Promise Of Hope! Please Line the Track and Celebrate Our Heroes, Our Friends who have heard the words "You Have Cancer"

The Caregivers are the Backbone of the Fight. They hold the hands, they care for and support their loved ones as they walk their cancer journey. Once again Line the Track and Support the Ones who give so much to help our Survivors Fight Cancer!

12:30pm - 2pm - Team Spirit Lap - Teams R Us!  Team Shirts and banners. Walk the track with pride for all you have done to help find a cure for cancer.

2pm - 3pm  - Purrfect Pets - Sponsored by KittyCats - Wear animal print, neko ears, tails or even be an animal or furry avatar! Dress as your favorite pet or animal!

3pm - 4pm -  I Cannot Believe I'm Wearing This! - Wear something you normally wouldn't  wear in SL. Would never admit to being a Furry? Don a furry avatar. Wouldn't wear latex *ever*? Bring it on! Wouldn't be caught out in curlers and slippers? Wear it!  Not a girly girl? Wear frills!  Not a surfer dude? Put on that long blonde hair and swim trunks!

4pm - 5pm - Ride Your Favorite Horse - Sponsored by Amaretto - Ride your favorite horse, wear your horse avatar or bring on the stick ponies.  We're riding for Relay!

5pm - 6pm - Beach Party (Summer) - Bring out your beach clothes, go barefoot, don’t forget those water bottles and sunscreen.

6pm - 7pm - Fall Fashion (Fall)  - Wear those autumn colors or that Halloween costume.  You could even be a Thanksgiving Turkey!

7pm - 8pm - Winter Nights (Winter) - Dress for those cold winter nights, don’t forget the hot chocolate with marshmallows

8pm - 9pm - Spring Fling (Spring)- the season for flowers, new beginnings, and proms.

9pm - 10pm - REMEMBER - Luminaria Ceremony -  ( quiet reflection with readings and inspirational music; sims are darkened for reflection and remembrance of those and their loved ones who have lost their battles to cancer or are still battling it; all are invited to participate ) Walk the track in silence.

10pm - 11pm - The Power of Purple - wear as much purple as you can. ..skin, hair, eyes, clothing, .. just bring on the purple!

11pm - 12am - Favorite Sport -  football, baseball, rugby, hockey, swimming, cheerleading.. just  any sports attire.  Don your favorite jersey or uniform and bring that Relay spirit.

12am- 1am - Midnight Masquerade - Wear a Masque and costume and join the  carnival like festivity hour.

1am - 2am - Silly Hats -- The name says it all

2am - 3am - Appearance Slider Outfits - Wear only looks you make yourself in appearance. 

3am - 4am - Favorite Decade - Did you love the 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's or maybe way back to the 40's or  the flappers or the roaring 20s?   Dress in your favorite decade outfit and show it on the track

4am - 5am - Health Matters - Maybe you are a banana, or an orange, or a carrot? Or simply dress in a healthy food color. Eating right, being active, and maintaining a healthy weight are important ways to reduce your risk of cancer.

5am - 6am - Up All Night - Curlers, Coffee, PJ's & Slippers - time to wake up and smell the coffee

6am - 7am - FIGHT BACK - Fight Back Ceremony - (Pick up your specially made RFL HOPE Cape and Fight Back Flags - available at the Relay Stations,  and join us as we make our fight back pledges to save a life this year -your own, a friends, a family member, or someone you don't even know yet.  Together we all can FIGHT BACK.

7am - 8am - Fantasy Themed - Fantasy Characters - Dragons, Pirates, Star Trek,   Fairies, Elves...  Fantasy themed avatars, Medieval, Tinies, Mermaids & Mermen, Wings

8am - 9am - International Lap - Wear your countries flag.. (provided by the International Committee or outfits that represent your country.

9am - 10am - Formal Hour - Wear your best as  you walk the final lap before Closing Ceremonies.  Formal attire.  Try to keep prims to a minimum, please.

10am-11am - Closing Ceremony

11am - NOON -VICTORIOUS! 'Take THAT, Cancer' LAP - Walk the track and meet the Relay Committee.  Celebrate YOUR Relay!

14 days to Relay

In 2 short weeks, The Relay Marathon Weekend will be here, and soon afterward, we will all fall back into our daily lives, as Relay for Life 2011 slips from our daily existence.

This being my first RFLofSL, I still have certain apprehension about Relay and how I'm not going to be able to hold it together. I know I will crying buckets and that a fact. There's rarely a day that goes by something doesn't moisten the tears. A new Why I Relay statement, or voice recording in my inbox. I blog or Facebook post or news article that touches my heart strings.

But then something comes along that just make it all worth while. I kind word from someone for giving them an opportunity to share their story, to put in words what lies close to out hearts. People thank me for the work I have done, and I have to giggle; it's not work for me, really, it's a privilege to serve, and to give back and share all that is good, to help someone find inspiration, to lift spirits, and give hope.

I have so many ideas floating around my head, and I look forward to the off season so I can maybe put some of my ideas of pavement for 2012. Eeeek, did I just leap into next year's RFL?!? Let's keep the focus on 2011 for a few more weeks =^,^=

So much to do, so little time,...

Warm loving Relay HUGZ ~ Jennifer Curtau

Damian at *The Club*

Harmony of Hope is proud to again host Damian at *The Club* 

June 26th from 4-5pm SLT

Damian Carbenell is a songwriter, guitarist and vocalist streaming his music into SL from the center of the USA,  Missouri.     Damian has been hailed as "one of the best cover artists in Second Life", by Metaverse Music.     The review goes on to say...    "He doesn't imitate the song just like it's original, he makes it his own." "His original songs are just as good as the covers. If he didn't announce it as an original I would've thought it was a cover song too.."

A typical Damian performance might include Jason Mraz, Green Day, Jack Johnson , Bon Jovi, John Mayer, Rob Thomas, Sick Puppies, LifeHouse, Three Doors Down, Muse and so many others. His wide variety in music style is sure to please everyone.

Come help us celabrate our new Live Venue at *The Club* all to benefit Relay for life!

Your Concert Ticket here ---> "The CLub"

Family Feud 3.1

** June 28rd **
** 6-8pm SLT **

Harmony of Hope Presents our 3rd Annual Family Feud 3.1

Due to some technical issues, (Not pointing fingers at SL or the internet in general,...) have rescheduled this event to take place on Tuesday June the 28th starting at 6pm at "The Club"
 

This is a huge event with a lot of planning going into it.

Teams will compete against each other in a game of family feud. Hosted by the one and only Dickie Dawson.

We are ready to play The Family Feud!
   
Because of the popularity of this event, we are asking to pre-registration for teams.

$2,500L from each player get you in the game. Prizes for the champions along with the coveted title of 2011 winner of Family Feud.



So bring on your team and Get ready to play FaMiLy FeUd!!

For further details. Questions IM Random Padar

Family Feud

** June 23rd **
** 6-8pm SLT **

Harmony of Hope Presents our 3rd Annual Family Feud                              
 
This is a huge event with a lot of planning going into it.

Teams will compete against each other in a game of family feud. Hosted by the one and only Dickie Dawson.

We are ready to play The Family Feud!
   
Because of the popularity of this event, we are asking to pre-registration for teams.

$2,500L from each player get you in the game. Prizes for the champions along with the coveted title of 2011 winner of Family Feud.



So bring on your team and Get ready to play FaMiLy FeUd!!

For further details. Questions IM Random Padar

Mega Challenge

OK here's the deal.

Relay for Life of Second Life fund raising Season of Hope is 30 day from being over. I see that amazing total we have done and I am stunned to see it top $200,000 USD all ready. ~WoW~

So my little challenge is this, several people including ours truly, will go BALD and more until the start of next years Relay For Life of Second Life season for 2012

IF

we manage to raise $325,000 USD this year in this last month in this Season of Hope.

Here's what we have committed:
ღJacqueline Briannaღ Bald until RFL2012
Vickie A. Maidstone Bald until RFL2012
Rose Dreadlow Bald until RFL2012
Tahisha Fairplay will give up fur for human until RFL2012
Jennifer Curtau will go Bald and give up neko for human until RFL2012

Dear Cancer

I just found this wonderful site from one of my follower on our Twitter site:  http://www.varian.com/dearcancer

It cost nothing to write a letter, and every letter posted, Varian will make a $50 donation to the American Cancer Society. So I hope you will take a few moments and write one too.

Here's what I wrote:

Dear Cancer,

Ungratefully Thanks You Cancer, because of you I've lost cousins, uncles and aunts, and several dear friends. You tried taking my dad from me too. Now I sit here waiting to hear of another friend's results on his tests, and I wonder how many more you will try and take from me, or whether you will try and take me too. And keep this in mind Cancer, for every one to take, there will be an group of people, of that person you took, that will rise up and fight you. This army is strong and we are determined stop you. Because of you, I am fighter in this army now, and I fight for the day, when the words "You have Cancer", will never be spoken again. I fight for the day when those words will be transformed to "We Have A Cure That"! 

I fight because I can.

Jennifer Curtau

Back to the 50's tour

Hi everyone,

Jennifer just posted the schedule to the "Back to the 50's" multi-team event to our sister blog site RFL of SL and I saw a chance to sneak in and look around before the party started. I felt like a little boy again, when the circus came to town, and I would just have to sneak in, just to look around and see behind the scenes, before the curtain went up and the lights turned on.

Harmony of Hope will be hosting a Sock Hop on opening night from 6-8pm SLT with the fabulous DJ Mordred Lectar, at the Sock Hop dance hall

Wandering about looking at the designs of the building and the creativeness of everyone involved is remarkable, and I had the whole place to my self which this Thursday morning, which was awesome. But I got thinking about it, everyone involved just when crazy getting this ready for a 72 straight event with no stopping starting tomorrow, so I know were they are,... sleeping for the fun to come.

The carnival area is perfect, could almost smell the popcorn, the cotton candy, the hot dog vendors, hear the kids screaming from sugar, pop and excitement over dose and people of all ages screaming above the crowd from the various rides surrounding you. Looking forward to seeing alive with friends and family, and all the people who are covering all the events over this weekend marathon.

Hope you enjoyed my sneak peak at the "Back to the 50's"sim and hope you find time to stop in and take part, in all there is to offer. This certainly covers 5 of the top ten tips for cancer survivors, namely: 6  connect with others, 7  do things you enjoy, 8  stay physically active, 9  check your focus, 10 eat, drink and be helpful.

SO lets get the Dolorian out again, set the time jump to the summer of 1950 and take a trip with me Back to the 50's

Bain Finch

Building up

Well here we are 44 days to Relay Weekend on July 16th-17th. an I am excited.

Harmony of hope is having a Family Feud show for Relay For Life of Second Life

** June 23rd ** Time TBA

Harmony of Hope Presents our 3rd Annual Family Feud
                                   
This is a huge event with a lot of planning going into it.

Teams will compete against each other in a game of family feud. Hosted by the one and only Dickie Dawson.

We are ready to play The Family Feud!
   
Because of the popularity of this event, we are asking to pre-registration for teams.

$2,500L from each player get you in the game. Prizes for the champions along with the coveted title of 2011 winner of Family Feud.

So bring on your team and Get ready to play FaMiLy FeUd!!

Stay Tuned for further details. Questions IM Random Padar

So I will get more detail to you when we do,..

Bain Finch

A Special introduction

Hello again,

Things are getting busier; lot's going on in my real life and especially with Relay For Life of Second Life.

Hope you are checking the event listing and information boards around the grid, hitting those events and giving often and generously. I know I've been broke since Relay started. Even had to borrow some Lindens from a friend to cover my rent this week!! Woopsies!

I wish to introduce someone to you, he's a very dear friend of mine in real life, I've know him all my life and we've traveled the road of life together, for a very long time. He's been my best friend, big brother ever since I've known him in school, and someone I could always count on in times of need. Even thought we parted ways at times, we never lost contact with each other, and always share each other lives and interest.

Well, since I've found myself in Relay For Life of Second Life and my sharing with him my discoveries, he's grown curious about what Second Life is all about, so he's joined us in world. But not only that, he wants to help me Relay, because we share similar friends and interwoven families, we’ve been each other caregiver’s support person to almost the same survivor group of people, and so I have invited him to co-author with me on our site.

I HOPE you welcome him warmly, as he's one of those amazing people and I am so glad to have him in my real life and now Second Life, he has big shoulders, a warm heart, caring and compassionate, and there's more than enough of him to go around.

Let me introduce you to my dear friend, Bain Finch of Second Life.

Jennifer

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Greetings and thanks Jenni for those lovely words.

WoW, after several days of solid exploring this new (new to me) virtual world, I AM HOOKED. I still have the words from Aldous Huxley's sci-fi novel "Brave New World" ringing through my mind. I have ton of exploring to do, but seeing the size of this place, it could be a life long hobby.

I’ve know the typist of the avatar, that is Jennifer Curtau since we were both in high school, way back when. Right from the start we connected, and didn’t take long for both of us to realize we had a special connection to each other. We had one of those connections, that was more than friendship, more than family, and way beyond lovers and we knew how special that was.

I remember the day she heard, her dad found to have colon cancer. She could hardly talk to me over the phone. My boss was sitting across from me in the same room as I took the call and was quick to gather what was going. I hung up the phone and before I had had a chance to digest the call and he calmly said to me, “WTF are you still doing here? Get going!” I flew home, gathered a travel bag and drove the 2-1/2 drive to her parent’s home in record time. I found her there, putting on one of those “brave faces” one tend to wear, when ones find themselves as a virgin cancer caregiver, but everyone knows, you have not remotely come to terms this. We hugged, I when on to hug and talked to her parents as I knew she was slipping out, to loose it in private. Her mom knew it too. She turn to me and said “Were OK, go to her”.

We cried buckets that afternoon, and we talked, and we talked, and we cried some more. After some long moments of silence, she looked into my eyes, and calmly said, "Well I guess I gonna get an education about cancer” and that what she did. Jenni one of those people that when she sets her mind on path and focuses her effort on something, she goes after it in an almost obsessive way.

Long story made short, her dad had a picture prefect operation, an excellent treatment series, and spotless follow up. 20 years on, and he’s still clean, and still with us. But in those 20 years, since we both became indoctrinated into the family-hood of cancer caregivers, we have both lost several mutual friends to cancer, we’ve both lost cousins, aunts and uncles in our respective families and we also celebrate the victories with many more cancer survivors.

So here is Jennifer, 20 years later, doing Relay For Life of Second Life, a team member in Relay and committee member giving her all, and knowing Jenni’s typist as I do, she wouldn’t have it any other way. She’s a force to be reckoned with.

Myself, I’ve always gave to the Cancer Society’s various fund drives they have, but always wondered if I could contribute in some more substantial fashion. With limited options due, to the size of this small community I live and work in, discovering, or should I say, having my dear friend discover the effort going on here in this place called Second Life, I just had to sign up and walk along side my friend of life.

I look forward in kicking this beast called cancer, senseless.

Bain Finch

Why I Relay ~ Pink Basevi-Charlesworth

Why I relay, and why I push you, my friends to help out...

In 2005 I was first diagnosed with cancer. As a retired RN, I knew it wasn't something to put off 'till tomorrow', but as a woman, I was beyond terrified and shook to the core. How could this happen to me? Family history, genetics, environment, stress; the... list of possible causes is endless. Either way, it was now in the driver's seat and I don't like anyone taking the wheel from me mid journey!

After chemo and radiation treatments, the loss of my hair, the loss of some dignity, the loss of people I thought were friends for life, the feelings of loss of control over my life and my body... I started to realize with the help of another survivor (Pat), I have gained so much! I found a deeper sense of being as my hair fell out. I found beauty really isnt just skin deep, its heart-deep. I found that with the feeling of evasiveness as chemo and radiation tore my body apart, I had a dignity that came up and held my head up for me.

Yes I have cancer, but I AM STILL HERE! With the loss of those that feared cancer more than they could love me, I found those left still at my side were the 'true' friends for life I had sought. Where I thought I had lost control over my life and body, I found a deeper sense of peace and calm where assumed control only hindered.

I am a Survivor, I am BEAUTIFUL, I am at PEACE with myself, I am NOT ALONE, and I am Strong! I AM A SURVIVOR.

Please donate to the American Cancer Society and Relay for Life. Help those in your lives find their strength, and help find the cure.



To donate to Harmony of Hope in Second Life:  http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY11SL/1393676856?pg=team&fr_id=34810&team_id=920555

Follow Team Harmony of Hope at:
www.rflharmonyofhope.blogspot.com,
www.twitter.com/RFHarmonyofHope
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Relay-for-Life-Harmony-of-Hope/107511229329424

To donate in Real Life: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY11SA?px=21365046&pg=personal&fr_id=32852

Thank You.

Pink Basevi-Charlesworth

Multi-Team Event

YAY, it's time for another Multi-Team event.

This event will take place the week of June 5th(start)-June 8th(cleanup).

This one is a very special event, for builders and non-builders alike.

For this event, we're going to test your creativity. On the day of the event you will be given a supply package. It's VERY important that you sign up before the event, so that I can get your package to you. The packages will not be handed out until the day the event starts.(June 5th).

These are the *only* supplies you will be permitted to use for this event, hehe. Inside the package will also be the LM to the event, the main area. When you get there you will choose a platform and rez a kiosk out for your team. Individuals are encouraged to join this event as well. However we ask that only one kiosk per team be rezzed. If you are building as an individual and not a team, please collect funds for the general fund and not any specific team. (this keeps things fair for all). The kiosks will be used for "voting".

You will have 3 days to build a masterpiece with your supplies. All rules will be included in your package, so you'll need to read them before you begin.

This will be a very low key event. We know June can be a hectic month. No worries about having to be there for any special music events or anything. Just a great way to come together and have some creative fun. But I do have very special awards for all participants. I can't wait to see the fantastic builds.

If you are interested in this event please fill out a note card and send it back to me Tari Landar. I will need the cards turned in by June 3rd at the latest. This will help ensure we've got prims and space for everyone. Please make sure that only ONE card per team is sent back. You can have as many builders as you'd like, but you'll only have one spot to build on. This will ensure you get your package and if we need to make any last minute changes to setup we can do so quickly.

Required Note Card Detail:

Name : (This is the person who will get the supplies. So if you're building as a team you may want to designate a head builder)

Team or Individual?: (if team put team name here)

Team only-Back up Head Builder: (In the event that the head builder loses the package or cannot be on, we'll need a backup to send a package to)

Additional Builders: (If you are on a team and know the names of those who will be building, please put them here as well)

Thanks so much, looking forward to this event :)

Tari Landar

Home and Garden Expo

The Second Life Home Garden & Patio Expo

The grand display of Second Life's Premier Architects, Builders & Landscapers – to benefit Relay for Life

Silent Auction and Scavenger Hunt

The awesome folks hosting the Home & Garden Expo are presenting and hosting a special Silent Auction. The landing zone for the auction is at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Home%20Expo%206/183/241/22 and they have a full list of the items up for auction, on their web site at http://slhomegardenpatioexpo.wordpress.com/auction-items-list. I know some of these shops, and they really do have a lovely collection of items up for bid, so I hope you give often, and give generously. Bidding closed at 10pm SLT on Sunday the 22nd.



Now I know everyone LUVs a Scavenger Hunt. The Home & Garden Expo is having a Scavenger Hunt for YOU. All you need to do is drop in at the starting point, grab a note card there and follow the bread crumbs.

At each location, find the little hunt item (a greenish house) and purchase it for 25L each. There is a sample at the starting point with a gift inside. Each hunt item will give you a gift and 100% of the proceeds will go directly to Relay For Life.  If there is more than one landmark listed at a store, that means there is more than one gift :)

Starting point http://slurl.com/secondlife/Home%20Expo%206/219/237/23
Participating Stores:
=============
1)  ~Beautiful Mess Designs~
2)  *InvitationStation*
4) Glas Houses
5) Creative Fantasy
6) Home by JLZ
7) SnowBound
8) Kabuki Creations
9) Park Place Home Decor
10) Cosmos & R&K Boutique
11) LK Family Homes
12) Kira's low prim goodies
13) Sofia's
14) LISP Bazaar
15) Insight Designs
16) *Art Dummy!
17) {what next}
18) Croire
19) Clutter Home & Garden
20) PRIME Furniture
21) Ballyhoo 512 Homes
22) Natas Designs
23) Nonnapie
24) WonderWorks
25) glas garden centre
26) Brennan Homes
27) ~Houses for You~
28) Pinky's
29) Organica Specialty Trees
30) Zoe's Garden
31) Persnickety
32) Designer Prims
33) Cleo Design

Both of these events have started already, so you better get busy BIDDING and HUNTING, as there's only 3 days left, before the Home Garden & Patio Expo closes for 2011, and goes POOF unto pixel dust until next year.

Do hit their blog site for details of their Exhibitors, Sim map, list of Sponsors, Builders Brewery Class times,  DJ schedule and much, much more. http://slhomegardenpatioexpo.wordpress.com/


Now get out there and ~GO RELAY~ at the Home Garden & Patio Expo, time running out.


Jennifer

Why I Relay ~ Aiyana Orchid

I Relay because I’m 31 years old and have had to fight off this awful disease 2 times. I relay because I don’t want another 27 year old told, who has her whole life in front of her and that of her 5 year son come crumbling down. The moment I heard that I thought for sure it would be the end... It's almost happened...But I am a fighter... and I have a strong will to live. I have great family and friends and an the awesome support of people like you all who help to find a cure for this..

It's about 1:30 my time and I just found out my best friend of 10 years just lost her battle with cancer. How do I feel? I'm beside myself in one count; in the other relieved she isn't suffering anymore and quite fueled to continue helping out with Relay for Life.... We had an agreement her and I...Fight until you can't anymore... For awhile it seems we were both winning... I had mine under control, she had hers... We pretty much held hands and went through all of it together.. It's rare that you find that.... Here I am now in remission and her... she couldn't fight anymore... So in her words...." Thank you all so very much for all that you do... for those of us that fight and loose this battle we know that you will still be there on the battle lines fighting to end this horrible disease. We will be there with you now and always cheering you on and giving you the extra push you need.".... Hence my reason for fighting no matter how hard the road may or may not get for me... Until my last breath I will continue to fight so no one has to hear those words.... and if they do they are followed by "we have a cure for that"... these are my reasons for Relaying... What's yours?

Aiyana Orchid

Date Auction

Hello again =^,^=

Club Paws N Claws and Harmony of Hope of Second Life is hosting a "DATE AUCTION" this Sunday May 22nd from 3-6pm SLT

Humans, Furries and Nekos alike are welcomed to take part. Volunteers will be Auctioned off, and you are invite to bid for a Date.

Contact RED LAURENT in world, if you have any questions.

Hope to see you there,...

http://slurl.com/secondlife/The%20Forgotten%20Isle/216/116/21

Greedy Tournament

Hellos again,

This Sunday May 22nd, 2011 from 2-4 pm SLT, Harmony of Hope of Second Life is hosting a GREEDY TOURNAMENT!

Each $500 Linden Donation gets you a spot in the tournament.

We have an awesome PRIZE for the WINNER, and of course there's the BRAGGING rights that goes with this. But not only that, this being the first annual tournament adds a level of RECOGNITION of you being first.

Contact PORTIA LYTTON to register and register early!!

Questions? Contact JALINE JAE or PORTIA LYTTON in world

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Yes/138/26/2

WoW

Hello friends, more updates on a incredible weekend.

First, my posts on the RFL of SL Updates blog. The Ribbons recipients have been posted and a post on my reporting of the Ribbon Ceremonies and Million Dollar Hour which I hope you enjoy.

Now the other bits of news, I wish to share:

I have been offered the position of Area Co-Chair for the PR/Marketing group, for Relay For Life of Second Life, and I accepted in a heart beat, and I AM besides myself for this privilege. I don't think my feet have touched the ground since Saturday. We will miss Skylar Smythe's contribution, but she has several wonderful projects on the go, which I am sure, you either know about all ready, or will soon hear about. I wish you great successes with your many projects Skylar. But do take times to breath occasional, sweety. :-)


Let see, oh yes, I am working hard to promote and collect Why I Relay Testimonial Recording and I hope you will take the time to make yours. The link provides instructions and You Tube videos for making yours, for PC and MAC users, and I would positively delighted is you did submit one. We will never use your email account details for anything what so ever. I just ask you to provide the full avatar's name you wish to be assigned to your recording.

We are working to make these recording available online, for everyone to access, team event planers, team captains, DJ's and steaming media personalities, for use with their RFLofSL events.

And saving the best for last, Harmony of Hope received the prestigious PLATINUM Level Halfway There Award Ribbon for our efforts, and we are absolutely thrilled. Platinum level is defined was the team whose donations total in the range of $500,000 - $999,999 Linden, which we are currently at an unofficial total of $ 631,550 Linden. WoooooHooooo!!! Way to go TEAM!

We thank EVERYONE for your support, efforts and generosity! You do indeed give HOPE.

Jennifer Curtau,
Online Media Chair for Harmony of Hope
Area Co-Chair PR/Marketing for RFLofSL

~ We are one Team ~

More musing of Jennifer's ride

Hi ya everyone, sorry i have been neglecting you, but I've have a busy few weeks. Let me tell you of some highlights.

We you know that I am the online Social Media Chair for my team of Harmony of Hope, and I can tell you we are doing good things as we approach the halfway point in the Relay For Life in Second Life's Season of Hope. As of this morning we have raised an amazing $625,857 Linden and taking aim on the Sapphire level club award!!! ~YaY Team~

We are working on several events and parties which I can't tell you just yet, so you will have to check back soon.

I also wish to highlight my support you all have given me out there in the greater real world, here on the blog and on our Harmony of Hope Twitter site. Since creating these site on March 1st, 2011 the blog have been accessed, close to 1,800 times, noted in several Metaverse news sites and more. I am so delighted!

The Twitter site has a following approaching 475 Tweeters, and have receive many supporting comments on my efforts, re-tweets and more. I have created a hash tag #why_I_relay and generally having fun learning the ropes.

Last month, I was invited to be a member of the main Relay For Life committee, in the group of PR/Marketing and taking on more roles as time progresses. One project that we are actively pursuing is the collection of "Why I Relay" recording from anyone wanting to make one. Please see the Why I Relay page for details. I would so grateful if you made one for us.

Yesterday I covered the 2nd Co-Chair Challenge Trophy presentation for the Newbie Challenge and I was delighted to cover it.

Today we launch the Home and Garden Expo, which feature some adorable KittyCatS you will just have to get. I know I want one.

Also this weekend is the Halfway There Faire, were Relayers from around the grid will be celebrating several milestones. the 1st one is obvious with the name of the faire, as we are at the half way point in our Season of Hope fund raising schedule. But the 2nd celebration is a big milestone in the history of Relay For Life in Second Life, and that is this movement have reach the 1 Million Dollar mark for total donation raised for Relay, and that something a lot of people have worked many hours, days and years doing.

There is a lot more, I wish I could tell you, but I have to wait until everything is in place and I don't want to get my paw slapped. =^,^=

Hope to see you on the grid in support of Relay for Life. If you see me give me a wave, I'd really love to hear from you.

Jennifer

RFLinSL events

Lots of events going on around the grid for this weekend in support of Relay For Life in Second Life. Let me wet your whistle on some of them.

Team Fringe is hosting a Fashion Auction on May 7th from 5-8pm SLT

The ONYX Bills are hosting a Radicals for Life Nike Show and concert on May 7th from 2:30-4pm SLT and later on ONYX Bills is hosting a Music Revolutions Weekend with 3 days music experience starting from 5-7pm SLT on the 6th, 4-11pm SLT on the 7th, 1-7pm SLT on the 8th

Hero's for Life are hosting a 12hr DJ Marathon from 4am to 4pm SLT on May 7th.

PHC For Life have been hosting a Carnival since April 10th which ends on May 8th

Relay Rockers have been hosting a Bid Me Bald-Nuala Maracas which ends on May the 8th at 4:30pm SLT. And Relay Rockers have been hosting Relay Rockers Bargain Barn Garage Sales since April 18th and running through to July 17th

Team Caledon are hosting a Mad Scientist Convention and Spring Hunt from the 7th starting at 9am SLT and running until the 8th at 5pm SLT.

Radicals for Life are hosting a Bid Me Bald-Tram Battle starting on the 5th at 6am SLT and running through to the 14th at 3pm SLT

Next week it's the Paint SL Purple event of the Relay For Life in Second Life week which marks the mid way point of the RFLinSL 2011 campaign.

AVENUE of Life are hosting Couture of Hope Charity Sales which started on May 1st and running through to May 31th.

And the Devils Rejects For Relay for Life will be hosting a Relay for Life Poker Run on May the 22nd from 1-5pm SLT

Home and Garden Expo is coming in May 13 at 12 noon SLT, and remain open 24 hours each day until it closes on May 22 at 10pm SLT. This will span 10 sims, with over 100 exhibits, more Entertainment and more ways to benefit Relay For Life, too! Builder's Brewery will host this year's Expo Classroom with lots of fun classes and a competition or two. More info at RFL of SL Updates

So there is plenty of RFLinSL going on around the grid and more events are posted every day, so check the Team Event page or find an RFLinSL event board in world, for times, locations and more.

Now get out there, meet some new friends, and have fun all the while helping us ~GO RELAY~

Love Jennifer

SL International Ambassadors needed

Dear Volunteers,

For Relay For Life in Second Life ~ International Relations lack German, Japanese,  Italian and Spanish ambassadors to help us.
Every language is welcome of course!

Could you please look around for us for who might like to help us to carry out the International Relay mission and help us translate Relay information?

Thank you in advance!

Kayleigh McMillan (International Relations - Co-Chair)

_________________________________________________________________

SUBJECT: THE AMBASSADORS OF RFL 2011 LANGUAGES

Hello

I'm preparing a database to help me to organize the work for this season 2011 RFL.

If you know people around you who want to help you with your language and want to become RFL Ambassadors, please copy this note before you fill it and send it to them.
_________________________________________________________________

Please fill in the following form:

- Do you want to help us with International Relay for Life season 2011 (yes/no)?

- What languages can you speak (oral):

- What languages can you write and translate:

- What is your prefered mode to be reached when you're offline?
> IM:
> notecard:
> email (please precise, this info only goes to me):
_________________________________________________________________

Rename the card Int'l RFL -03 [YOUR NAME HERE] with your name and send it back to Morgan Kincess
Thank you/arigato/danke schoen/gracias/merci/obrigado

We will send you a group invitation to join the international team.

 Morgan Kincess
 International RFL Chair

 PS: you can add me as friend after you sent back this note if you want for easier communications.

24hour May Day

For 24 hours over Sunday and Monday Harmony of Hope will taking part in the May Day event at the American Cancer Society. We will be having a Bull Riding Contest with the one hanging on the longest, will receive a prize for their endurance. Of course all donations go to Relay For Life in Second Life.

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Relay%20For%20Life%20Encouragement/38/48/22

Wikipedia defines the origins of May Day:
The earliest May Day celebrations appeared in pre-Christian times, with the festival of Flora, the Roman Goddess of flowers, and the Walpurgis Night celebrations of the Germanic countries. It is also associated with the Gaelic Beltane.


Relay For Life in Second Life is expanding on these origins with our own May Day event. Teams are comming together in a day celebrations, life encouragement and fun. Each team will be given a 20x20 spot in which to fill as they like. ACS will be providing an Entertainment Square where DJs can hang and share the tunes! For those people wishing to DJ I will make a schedule. Each DJ will get an hour during the day. First come first serve. Please contact Green Collingwood in world ASAP. ACS will also providing a Baking Contest Tent People will build desserts before hand and will be voted on using kiosks. Pies, cakes, anything desserty!

So far the May Day teams attending are:
1.  Blackfangs
2.  Children's Light
3.  Dandelions n Mudpuddles
4.  SL Cure Chasers
5.  Giant Snail Race
6.  United Federation Starfleet
7.  Friends Fighting Cancer
8.  Couture for Cure
9.  Relay Rockers
10. Harmony of Hope
11. Lotus Lovers
12. Team Caledon
13. Remembering Our Friends Memorial Angels
14.  Team marga-Relay-Ville
15. Love All Ways Always
16. Silver Moons
17. Twisted Lizard
18. The Pixel Bean Team
19. Knights of Avalon
20. Passionate Redheads
21. Goreans in Relay for Life
22. Aether Chrononauts
23. Strigoi Motorcycle Club

I am REALLY looking forward to meeting the other teams I haven't met yet.

If you have any questions please contact Green Collingwood in world

May Day starts May 1st at 9am SLT and runs 24 hours until May 2nd 9am SLT
(insert ACS SLurl)

Hope to see you all ~ Jenifer Curtau

YOU are not Alone ~ Fearless Nation PTSD Support

The following was talken from several notecards, but I think it illustrates what Fearless Nation is all about, better than any words I could use. I first found Fearless Nation from a discussion with a dear friend and co owner of Fearless Nation Sue Mowadeng.

Their site and sim in world provide PTSD sufferers with a TON on information, quiet, peaceful places for you. Fearless Nation help PTSD sufferers with education resources, peer discussion groups, help with choosing a therapist and therapies, biofeedback resources, PTSD history and so much more.

Jennifer Curtau

Meet ~ Learn ~ Reconnect ~ Begin Recovery

PTSD stands for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

PTSD is a condition, NOT a disease, NOT a mental illness. It is a lasting reaction to a horrifying event. PTSD is a response by normal people to an abnormal event.

Early History of PTSD
Because people have been experiencing extremely stressful, potentially life-threatening events for centuries, clearly PTSD is a condition that has plagued humans for quite some time before the APA officially recognized it as an emotional disorder. In fact, throughout our history, PTSD has been called a number of other different names, including:
    * ‘battle fatigue’ or ‘gross stress reaction’ for soldiers with PTSD after World War II
    * ‘combat fatigue’ or ‘shell shock’ for soldiers who experienced PTSD symptoms after World War I
    * soldier's heart for soldiers who developed the symptoms of PTSD after the Civil War.
Unfortunately, before the medical community recognized PTSD as a viable emotional disorder, most leaders and doctors thought it was simply nothing more than cowardice or personal weakness.

PTSD in Modern Times
Although PTSD was largely disregarded for decades, the Vietnam War brought significant public attention to this emotional disorder when doctors began to diagnose it as post-Vietnam syndrome. The Vietnam veterans who suffered from this disorder pushed the medical and the military community to recognize it as a legitimate disorder.

Today, about 7 percent to 8 percent of the general population will develop PTSD. These numbers go up significantly for crime victims, law enforcement, combat soldiers and prisoner of war survivors, among whom PTSD has anywhere from a 10 percent to 30 percent chance of developing.

PTSD and Popular Culture
The general public has learned a lot about PTSD thanks to the movie and film industry. In fact most people have learned about the syndrome by viewing PTSD in film. Films like "Fearless" or "Mercy", or films about the Vietnam War, such as “Apocalypse Now”, “The Deer Hunter” and “Born on the Fourth of July”, have all featured Vietnam veterans who end up having to deal with the issues that come with PTSD. These films have been well-received by audiences, which tells us that, as a culture, humans are very interested in how other people deal with traumatic events in their lives.

Not only has the film industry captured the realities of PTSD, books and novels also explore this subject. Phillip Cavuto wrote A Rumor of War, which is considered to be one of the classic works on the subject of PTSD. In the Lake of the Woods by Tim O'Brien is another excellent work about a Vietnam vet who struggles with PTSD.

    * The majority of PTSD sufferers are NOT military or combat veterans, but ordinary people who have survived a horrifying event.

These people include:
-  Emergency response workers, EMTs, Trauma Medical personnel (jobs with high levels of life-threatening stress)
-  Police officers (job with high levels of life-threatening stress)
-  Disaster response workers (job with high levels of life-threatening stress)
-  War refugees and those living in war zones
-  Crime victims (rape, assault, hate crimes, etc.)
-  Sexual abuse survivors
-  Child abuse survivors (including sexual, psychological or physical abuse)
-  Torture and hostage victims
-  Human trafficking victims (rape + hostage + long term abuse)
-  Concentration camp inmates and prisoners of war
-  Man-made and natural disaster survivors (vehicular accidents, war, hurricanes, etc.)
-  Victims of intense bullying at school or work
-  Accident (car crash, plane crash, vehicular disaster) victims

Why Can A Virtual Reality Environment (VRE) like Second Life be Helpful for People with PTSD?
A virtual environment can be helpful for people with PTSD for a number of reasons:

    * Cost Effective: Most PTSDers are challenged with health costs and employment issues. SL offers a FREE VRE rich in offerings that educate and support the post-trauma condition at little or no cost. Fearless Nation provide educational tools in the VRE that you would pay a good deal of money for in the real, physical world. Social events, lectures, group activities are all provided, free of charge to you.

    * Low-Stress Environment: No need to battle traffic to get to a group meeting or event,no stress over feeling "crowded"...You are in control.

    * Reconnection with Others: PTSD is a very lonely condition. Those of us with PTSD are often fearful of groups of people, social situations, and physical interaction with people. Most of us long for a social life again, to converse with others, make friends, go out and have fun. The VRE provides this--if you get uncomfortable, you can log off.

Follow the Fearless Nation network:
Flikr Photostream: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ccrary/sets/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/fearlessnation
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=129769552616&ref=mf
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2177672&trk=hb_side_g
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/554090448
Blogspot: http://www.ptsd-news.blogspot.com/
Second Life SURL: http://slurl.com/secondlife/OAK%20BEACH/73/107/43

(Contact Anya Ibor in SL)
Donate Today via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=JWKY5KNUZBLVN