I’ve Experienced The Dance

A few days ago I attended a benefit fundraiser called “Experience The Dance” which is named for the foundation, Sara’s Dance Foundation located in Minnesota. The proceeds from this benefit are to build a first of its kind dance wellness center for women recovering from cancer treatment or living with a serious illness. It will be a place where they can reconnect with their inner beauty and freely discuss and embrace the changes in their bodies, minds, and souls – where women can come together to celebrate their unique life steps.

The event included a red carpet entrance where each attendee was escorted into the ballroom by men in tuxedo’s where she received a glass of champagne and welcomed into the event.  There was shopping, a silent auction, mini spa services, food & dancing.

I was moved to tears over the slide presentation about Sara Johnson-Turpin, the inspiration for Sara’s Dance Foundation, a young, vibrant and beautiful woman. She lived to dance. During her courageous battle with Acute Lymphoma Leukemia (ALL) she celebrated life with grace and beauty. Sara was 22 when she lost her battle with cancer…

Cancer survivors were given pick boa's

Then, any woman in the crowd who was a cancer survivor was welcomed to the stage, each was presented with a pink boa and her journey was celebrated and cheered by all the onlookers…..yes, this was a celebration of life.

My sister in law Nancy and my friend, Kimbra were up on that stage and as I clapped I also said a prayer of thanks that they survived!

Sister in law-Nancy, Friend-Kimbra

One day The Dance Wellness Center will be built and the vision of a few dedicated women will be a reality.

The evening was a true circle of strength, women strengthening one another in a common cause -

“A small group of committed people can make a difference and change the world”

~Margaret Mead