Not Just Another Monday...

 

Page 281 of 366. Good Morning Lovies. We are off for another lovely week of 2024. I still cannot believe how fast this year has flown by. I am going to simply point out some facts about today and what is actually celebrated on this day; possibly some things you didn't know about, some you may have...

It is National Inner Beauty Day. 

I did not know this and it is kinda a beautiful thing to celebrate. In a world that has become so superficial and obsessed with outer looks; the meaning of a day like this gets lost among the (m)asses!!! I feel this is something that should be acknowledged year 'round as no one should be judged by their outer appearance as this is only their human "shell"... try seeing someone by their soul; their kindness, creativity, their strength ~ observe how they treat other people. Beauty (or ugliness) can only truly be revealed through observation of the heart... Just my opinion!!!

It is Team Margot Stem Cell & Bone Marrow Awareness Day.

This day, should be a vital day to everyone, and I have to admit it holds a very important place in my heart; those who know... know!!! First, this day is named in the memory of Margot Martini, a 14-month-old girl who battled blood cancer and inspired a global movement to increase donor registration. 

(The reason today is the day we acknowledge this is because Margot was diagnosed with blood cancer on October 7, 2013... her desperate need for stem cell donors and the reality of the critical shortage of them became the highlight of their search, leading to the first day of awareness by the campaign named in her honour on October 7, 2015). The campaign has worked continuously reaching the entire world, trying to boost the importance of being or registering as potential donors.

Those who have or are suffering from blood cancer, or other illnesses that are truly facing their own mortality in the face, desperately could use a match and this awareness/campaign; bringing people together can and has made life-saving impact to many world-wide... (To be honest, I am surprised we don't have a full month dedicated to this awareness like we do Breast Cancer or Prostate Cancer)!!!

I debated on sharing this part of the story, but I feel it is necessary simply for the fact that it shows really how desperately testing and donating is soooooo vital for people, especially the vulnerable. Margot Martini fought a fight no child should ever have to endure. Her parents were beyond brave, sharing her story with the world. 

Margot DID receive the bone marrow she needed as tens of thousands of people around the globe got tested and donated in hopes of helping; sadly she a short time later the cancer returned (two rare forms of leukemia) and it returned with a vengeance. She fought an infection, and with virtually no immune system left to fight...  The sweet wee one passed away on October 27, 2014.

If there is anyway you can share this story, have open discussions with friends and family. I know many feel skittish when it comes to touchy subjects like this; but they are necessary. Every family, in one way, or another is affected by cancer. Being tested for donation, even if its for blood, marrow... anything that will help; I encourage you to do it. I can myself thank you from the bottom of my heart and can say without a doubt that every person who is a warrior, currently fighting, in remission or passed on; they are thankful and appreciate what you are doing in their honour; even if you don't know their names.

Please think about it. Stay blessed all!

~Phoenix