Day 36: Robin Rocks

I attended the annual Los Angeles Business Journal Women Making a Difference Luncheon today. I have been nominated for this fun award in the past and it's always a honor to be in the company of such accomplished women. Pictured here with me are Robin Sax in the center, and our colleague and gal pal Rebecca Simon.

Today I attended to support my friend & business companion Robin Sax. She was one of the finalists for the Rising Star award. If you don't know who Robin Sax is, then you should, as the work she performs daily contributes to making our communities safer from predators & creeps.

As a former prosecutor with the Los Angeles District Attorney's office for more then a decade, Robin is now a media commentator and legal analyst for NBC News as well as a frequent guest on such programs as Nancy Grace, Larry King, and Headline News. Robin is an author of six books that draw upon her vast experience as a sex-crimes prosecutor, legal commentator, child advocate and parenting expert. She speaks throughout the country to law enforcement, parents, attorneys, and engaged people who want a more effective way of keeping predators away from our children and off the streets. Visit www.RobinSax.com to learn more.

She is witty, sassy, & smart. She is well deserving of all accolades given to her for being a champion for children and safer cities. In addition to her smarty pants legal work, she is also a dressing diva & deal seeker. She authors a weekly e-newsletter titled The Sax Facts which profiles trends & tips for the sophisticated woman. You must visit her site and become a subscriber so you can stay in the know of what's hot www.SaxFacts.com

Robin was one of the shining stars of my political campaign. She sought me out after reading my campaign literature and from the moment we met, we connected. She supported me wholeheartedly with no agenda. Those are the kind of supporters you want when campaigning. I will always hold her and her husband Andy in my heart for opening their hearts & wallets to support me.

And as if that was not enough, she is also a wife, mom, daughter, sister and a damn good friend. I'm proud to be part of Sax Enterprises as a colleague, but more importantly as someone who can say "I knew her when", because Robin Sax is on fire and there's no stopping this woman! From one Robyn to another ... Rock it Robin baby!

Day 34 & 35: The Bond of Old Friends

This afternoon I attended a beautiful performance at the Foundation House in Beverly Glen Canyon to listen to a High School friend sing. How many of us can say we have an old chum who became an opera singer! Well our class of '79 University High School gals can!

Diana Tash is a talented soprano and mezzo opera singer who has performed at Carnegie Hall, Zipper Hall, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and has performed with the LA Opera the Master LA Chorale and many other groups around the world for the past 20 years. It was such a treat to attend her performance along with my high school gal pals. Pictured above are Beth Bonnet and me in the walkway of the beautifully landscaped Foundation Home. And pictured to the right is our beautiful opera singer friend Diana Tash.

Ever since our 30 year High School reunion last summer we have made an effort to spend time together when possible. There's something very natural and easy about spending time with people who have known you since your teen years. There are funny stories to reminisce about, lives to catch up on and lots of laughs in between. It's amazing how comfortable you feel and how you can pick up on a conversation as if you left off talking just yesterday. Pictured here from left to right are Andrea Honoroff Lurie, Alexis Engel Phillips, Beth Bonnet (top), Diana Tash (bottom), Farrel Freeman, Laura Weber, and me.

Us gals were a fabulous (and wild!) group of young girls in High School who have grown into strong & accomplished women. Many of us have children or pets who are like our kids; we have partners and spouses; we have divorces and never married; we have lost parents and are caring for ailing ones; we have dreams yet to be fulfilled and others that have already come to fruition; we live in and around the Los Angeles community; and what connects us is that while we may not speak daily or even for years we shared a part of our lives together that will never be forgotten. Collectively we have an abundance of memories. Pictured above to the right are Farrel & Me. Pictured to the left are Jill & Farrel.

In addition to being two of my oldest and best friends from Emerson Junior High, Jill, Farrel and I went on to be college students together at San Francisco State University -- Jill and I were dorm roommates and then Jill, Farrel and I all lived together in San Fransisco. Those memories would fill a volume of Blogs!

Following Diana's performance us Uni High gal pals dined together and laughed some more. Several of these women I see regularly and have remained intimately close with. Others I had not seen in 20 plus years until the pre-reunion festivities last summer. What a treat it has been to reconnect with these women over the past year. Pictured left are Andrea Lurie & Vicky Margolis. Pictured below are Beth Bonnet & Alexis Engel Phillips.

Friendship is a gift. Long lived friendships are a treasure. I feel blessed to be back in the spirit and company of all you amazing women! Thank you for making so many long lasting memories with me!

If you'd like to hear Diana's beautiful voice, please purchase a CD by visiting www.DianaTash.com Thank you to Laura Weber & Farrel Freeman for the beautiful photos of a very special afternoon!

Day 32 & 33: Holly Visits My Synagogue

I have not attended Friday Shabbat Services in a long time. Tonight I did. I invited my friend Holly J. Mitchell (pictured left) to join me for services. Holly is a candidate for the 47th Assembly District. That's my community and also Temple Isaiah's so I wanted her to meet the congregants.

I have never been more proud to be a member of Temple Isaiah as I was tonight. Here's why. From the moment we walked into the synagogue we were greeted with warmth and hugs and "it's so good to see you" comments. Holly was thanked for making Isaiah one of her campaign destinations. I was grateful for the respect my fellow members gave to my guest. Temple Isaiah has a long & rich political action agenda and this is one of the reasons we joined as a family 17 years ago.

The service was rich with music and prayer and of course listening to Rabbi Zoe Klein speak is a treat within itself. Her magical way of using descriptive words to illustrate a point about God or faith or justice is an art. She is truly a gifted orator.


Cantor Evan Kent's voice fills the room and gives me goose bumps. You can't help but feel wrapped in love when he sings. And his special tribute to slain gay activist & elected official, Harvey Milk (pictured left) was powerful and painful. Milk was an inspiration to me, not only for his relentless belief that all people, including gays & lesbians, be part of the political structure, but also because he ran for office 4 times. He did not win until his 4th race. He never gave up. I remember the day he and Mayor George Moscone were gunned down by a former colleague. Truly a loss and a painful part of our history.

When we think of history and how we have mistreated people for the color of their skin or their sexual preferences, I am embarrassed. But tonight I was proud that I sat among people who shared my belief that all people should be accepted regardless of their ethnicity, religion, color, or choice of partner.


The service was made even more special because the 2010 Confirmation Class of students were graduating and we heard 8 teenagers talk about why Judaism and their faith are so important to them. I was moved to tears as I listened to these young adults, several who I have known since they were babies, talk about their ideas for a better world and a brighter future. It was so refreshing and inspiring to hear young people talk with such passion about the world they want. I was so proud that Holly had joined me this particular night and that she could hear and see what a beautiful community Temple Isaiah is.

I was so happy that Holly was fed spiritual nourishment as she battles the next two weeks for a victory. I know all too well how difficult and emotional campaigning can be and if we can find a little peace in the words of our clergy leaders then maybe we will have the extra energy to be even better campaigners. I hope Holly gained strength from the words shared tonight.

The election is June 8th and I invite you to learn more about Holly and her issues. You can visit her website at http://www.hollyjmitchell.com/ We need political leaders like Holly & Harvey, and we need spiritual leaders like Rabbi Zoe, Rabbi Rick and Cantor Even.

Day 30 & 31: Vote for Ethan ... Deadline is TOMORROW!

Some things are just too precious not to share. For those of you who know Ethan Altshuler, Linda Sherman's son, my nephew, you know what a gifted artist and talented young boy he is. He is far wiser then most of his 5th grade peers, made evident by his drawings and powerful and descriptive words. So today's post is about two events happening in Ethan's life.

For one, he is a finalist in the Aaron Brothers Art Contest for 9 -12 year olds. If he is selected, he and his family win a 3 day trip to the Crayola Factory. You must see his drawing and I know you will be compelled to vote for him. Visit www.aaronbrothers.com/vote On the left side you will see “VOTE” He is in the 9-12 age group. His picture is called “Ways to be Green”. Please vote for Ethan's art work today as May 21 is the deadline.

Second, Ethan left this week for his class trip to Astro Camp. Before he departed he wrote his Mom a note:

If every Mommy received a note like this from their son when he departed on an adventute, the world would be perfect. Enjoy this happy story!

And don't forget to vote for Ethan's artwork.

Day 28 & 29: He's Back!

I can't believe my first born son Brandon is back from college! He has completed his first year of studies at Willamette University in Salem, Oregon. I feel as if we were just heading up to Oregon and moving him into his dorm room. How could an entire year of school already be over? (How could this picture have been taken when he was just 4 years old!?!)

As with all our milestones in life, they provide a time of reflection and an opportunity to take stock of our lives. And of course significant changes in our lives stir up the unknowns. I remember asking myself so many questions as we drove away from his school following parent orientation last September. Will he like school? Like his roommate? Like his professors? Will he do well in school? Will he like the Baseball program? Will he be able to handle being a collegiate athlete? Will he make friends? Will he party too little or too much? For the first time he will be living on his own. So much to worry about as his parents.

I am happy to report that he managed just fine. He completed his first year of studies which he reported were very challenging (yeah, it's college) and he carved out a nice little spot for himself on the baseball team. He did admit that juggling it all was difficult. His baseball team was on the road almost every weekend travelling to other universities in Idaho, Washington and throughout Oregon to play 3 games in two days. And one road trip to Los Angeles to play in a tournament with local colleges. (Pictured to the left is Brandon pitching) And there were moments where he was very homesick, especially the first semester. But ya know what, despite the tough schedule, he wants to go back! The best few words I heard upon his return.

Going away to college is much more then just the academics & sports. It's about growing up and growing the confidence required to be successful outside the comfy little cocoon you have been living in for the past 18 years. Living on your own, managing your time & budget, doing your own laundry, juggling classes, maneuvering new relationships; these are all necessary responsibilities mandatory for becoming an adult.

As a parent that is our job. To grow and foster our children into adulthood. We want them to learn the tools necessary to navigate life successfully so they can live productive and happy lives. It's a big job and one that can't be taken lightly. It's taken a lot of work to guide my son to where he is now. Parenthood is work, but as we know, hard work pays off in life.

Today, I'm feeling like all that work has paid off and that I've won the jackpot with Brandon. He has mastered so much this first year away on his own! Here's to a summer with all my chicks back in the nest!

Day 26 & 27: I Love Talking Women Politics!

This weekend I was invited to speak on a panel to discuss the challenges and experiences of running for public office. The event was hosted by the Ventura Chapter of the National Women's Political Caucus and I was honored to be included. The theme centered around the differences in how women lead, the difficulties women confront when running for office and what can we do to invite more women into the political process. All worthy topics and issues that are near & dear to my heart. Pictured above from left to right are Susan Rose, one of the panelist, Marie Lakin, President of the Ventura NWPC Chapter, Me, and my ever faithful Rebecca Simon, my former campaign manager.

I was very disappointed when I lost my campaign for City Council last year. I refer to my campaign as the longest job interview I've ever had. Can you imagine applying for a job for 18 months, enduring 26 interviews in front of thousands of people and then being rejected! Ouch... can you see why that would sting. But this weekend I was alive again as I sat in front of an educated and active group of people who share my passion for seeing more women in office. I realized that my commitment to this cause has never wavered despite my individual set back.

I shared the panel with two remarkable and accomplished women. Carmen Ramirez seated center in the photo to the left who is a candidate for the Oxnard City Council and Susan Rose, former Santa Barbara County Board Supervisor. Both women have a lengthy resume of work they have performed on behalf of the environment, women and families and their communities.

In addition to speaking passionately about women and politics it was also an afternoon to see friends who were dedicated supporters during my campaign. Pictured to the right is Terry Gibson, who faithfully gave and sent her love throughout my race. And pictured with me below to the left is Celeste Weingardt, former State President of NWPC-CA and a champion for women running. I was honored to serve as the NWPC State VP of Communications during Celeste's tenure and was always in awe of her leadership. These women epitomize what NWPC is about - a commitment to electing qualified and pro choice women into office.

I am grateful for these women and the entire Ventura NWPC Caucus for their continued support of my political endeavors and for inviting me to join them at their annual signature event Politics, Tea, & Thee. I am grateful too for our shared belief that women can make a difference when elected to public office and that we can't rest until we reach our goal 50/50 by 2020! (50% representation by women, 50% by men by the year 2020)

Day 25: I Need A Good Laugh & Good Hair

After this week, I need a good laugh! I thought you could all use one too. So today's post will be short & sweet because I am physically & emotionally drained after the week's happenings ...

Have you ever driven your kids to school in your pajamas? And worried that you might get pulled over for speeding? Well no that didn't happen to me, but I have often thought what would I do if I got pulled over in my PJ's on PCH? Well, the other day I was getting my hair done early in the morning and I wanted to be cozy & comfortable and enjoy my blow-dry ... so I wore my jammies & robe to the salon. See the photo above for proof!

Sometimes we just have to be a little goofy and poke fun at ourselves. All this serious stuff can cause you to go batty. So if you ever want to experience the true comforts of the salon, go in your pajamas!

And for a GREAT blow-dry, or color, or highlights, please visit my beautiful gals Eka & Rebecca, owners of Salon Dione who always take care of me no matter what I am wearing! 310.841.6777 or www.SalonDione.com

And for those of you who don't know, I have gorgeous extensions! Nowadays there are so many fabulous ways to add a little umph to your hair so if you are interested, contact Karisma Shackelford at Karisma@extensionsofyou.biz She makes house calls! Could it be any better!

In all seriousness, I did have a rough week with medical challenges and a personal upset which I'll share at another time, so I needed to add some sunshine to my thoughts and this picture makes me smile! Have some fun & always remember to laugh at yourself every once in awhile!

Day: 24 Gastritis & Ulcers

A few days ago I posted about health and how important it is. I shared that dear people in my life were experiencing health challenges- some explained with a course of action in place, others unexplained and scary. Well, sadly I have joined this category! A few years ago I was diagnosed with Gastritis (sexy name, huh?) which means inflammation of the stomach lining. I also have Gall Stones -- which are not like kidney stones -- you don't "pass" them you have to have your gallbladder removed if you have on going problems.

But back to the tummy. My body does not break down acid as perfectly as it should causing acidic build up which causes an inflamed stomach lining resulting in doubled over abdominal pain. Contrary to popular belief it is not related to diet or stress, it's just how my body breaks down certain enzymes and there is no warning when an outbreak will hit.

Today I had my third Endoscopy to take a look at what is going on and to determine if in fact the inflammation is what's causing my pain. An endoscopy is when you are fully knocked out by an anesthesiologist and my terrific Dr. Soraya Ross inserts a long instrument down your throat with a camera on the end so they can have a look around your intestines.

Of course this interruption in my daily routine pisses me off, especially because today was a running at the beach day and I cherish that time. I've got lots of miles to get under my feet if I'm going to run that marathon next year.

The test showed progressed Gastritis, and in non doctor speak that means they now have turned into ulcers! Ahh, that explains the pain I've been in. With some medication I should be feeling better in a few days. In the meantime, I have a wonderful present being delivered shortly. My son Brandon is returning from his first year of college tonight! So while I'm not feeling my peppy self at the moment, knowing that he'll be back in the house for the summer and my family unit will be complete, helps lessen the pain.

Since Brian is out of town, I relied on my gal pals today who helped get me to the surgical center and back home and my niece Olivia for picking up the crazy teenagers from school for me ... and to my Blog sister and much more Robin Sax for the EXQUISITE floral bouquet that I received upon my return today! Wow... purple and yellow tulips can always put a smile on your face.

Well, life is never dull that's for sure.

Day 23: Sisteromics

I attended the most invigorating gathering this morning with powerful & inspiring women! I was invited to speak with leaders, members and potential recruits about the benefits of being a member of the National Women's Political Caucus. Always one of my favorite topics -- how to get more women elected to public office! I have been a member and part of the leadership of the LA Westside chapter of NWPC for a dozen years and I am always excited to meet a woman who has made the decision to run for office. It never gets old for me. This morning was no exception. Pictured here from left to right are four NWPC leaders. Stephanie Molen, Field Deputy for State Senator Fran Pavley, Lindsay Bubar, Co-President of NWPC LA Westside, Betsy Johnson, Co-President NWPC LA Westside, and Lindsey Horvath, West Hollywood City Councilwoman.

It felt great to be talking about my campaign after a bruising loss one year ago. I felt powerful knowing that there are equally important lessons to share about losing a campaign as there are about being victorious. I enjoyed having a platform to share my passion for politics, women and running for office.

In addition to me sharing my history with NWPC and my experience as a former candidate, we also heard from a current NWPC endorsed candidate - Holly J. Mitchell who is running for the 47th Assembly District (pictured right). The election is June 8th. She is running in my assembly district and I encourage all my followers & readers who reside in Beverlywood or anywhere in the 47th to support Holly. I invite you to check out Holly's credentials and you'll see why I am supporting her! http://www.hollyjmitchell.com/

She also coined a terrific term and shared it with us today: Sisteromics! Combining women with economics resulting in a better use of funds. Meaning that when you contribute to a woman candidate you can be assured that she will oversee that every dollar you give is spent wisely! Therefore it's Sisteromics! I just love this phrase!

We need more strong and inspiring women to join our mission and help us elect more qualified women to office. So if you believe we need more women in office, please consider joining our cause!

Day 22: The Best Presents

The best present we can ever receive is the love & admiration from people we love. While many of us celebrated Mother's Day yesterday, it was also a day to celebrate the relationships you share with special people in your life who are not your children, but who you have made an impact on. Motherhood includes caregivers, step-parents, aunts, foster parents, role models, and significant friends -- all relationships which can have profound impacts on people. The best presents I received on Mother's Day were of course sharing the day with my family and having my boys shower me with homemade cards & kisses, but the most emotional gifts that touched my heart till it hurt were these words below from special young women in my life.

Dear Aunt Robyn,
Happy Mother's Day. I love you so much and want to remind you that you have been a great influence in my life. I can't wait to see you and catch up about everything. But most importantly I wanted to remind you that you are very much a mother to me. You have been there through thick and thin. I couldn't have made it this far without you. I appreciate all you have provided me with and want you to know how much I love you. Happy Mothers Day. You are a great mom, who inspires me to be everything I can be.
I love you, Zoe (age 18)

Dear Aunt Robyn,
You are the best person ever. I love you so much. You are like a friend, sister and a mom. Whenever my family is down you help us, you are always there for us. I love coming over to watch TV. It is so funny when you yell at the TV. Sometimes I don't know were to begin because you are such a great person. I love the perfume you wear too. I love you! Happy Mother's Day.

Love, Esme (age 10, wearing the hat)

And from another special young woman in my life, my son Brandon's girlfriend:

Happy Mother's Day Robyn!!
Have a great day. You are such a loving, caring, beautiful, and AWESOME mother!!! I don't think the boys could ask for a better mom than you. Thank you very much for caring for me and taking me in as a daughter. You have done so much for me and I appreciate every little thing;I know I couldn't ask for anyone better than you. I love being around you and hanging out. You are the best!!!
Enjoy your day!
I love you!!!!
Love,
Dannie (age 19)

We all have the power to brighten the spirits of children in our lives whether we are their mother or not. Gifts like these words are priceless.

Day 20 & 21: Appreciate Motherhood

Happy Mommy's Day ! Ahh the Hallmark Holiday is here! While I find it a little silly that we have a special day dedicated to honoring Mom's, I must say I do like to be pampered all day long! It makes up (just a little) for all the days that we feel we are not appreciated for the work we do. And it is work, with no days off.

Mother's Day is a bittersweet day for me. I am blessed to have my 3 delicious sons and am honored to be called Mom by them, but I do not have a Mom to say Happy Mom's Day to. To all my sisters who have lost their Mommy's way too early, I share your pain & loss.

I also hold a place in my heart for Mom's who have lost their children. I can't imagine the hole in their heart. I really can't. I think about the young Lacrosse player at the University of Virginia who was murdered this past week by an enraged boyfriend; her mother will spend this day without her daughter. Or the young Chelsea King from San Diego who was killed by a monster. How does her mom spend this day? My heart aches thinking about this. And all the Moms here in our own city who have lost their babies to gang violence. How do they celebrate today? Or the young pregnant woman who just blocks from my house was gunned down this past week while standing on the sidewalk. No doubt her Mom grieves today for her daughter and her grandbaby.

So today if you are annoyed by your teenagers attitude, or their poor grades, or if your toddler has thrown one too many tantrums for you to handle, or your kid didn't clean his room up, take a moment to pause and appreciate how blessed you are to be a Mom, despite all the imperfections your children may have. None of us are perfect. We all have flaws and children are no different. But can you imagine life without them? Without someone on this earth calling you Mom or Mommy or Mama? I can't imagine my life without hearing those words. I wear that title with honor & pride.

And while parenthood is the most emotional roller coaster ride you'll ever take, it's my favorite ride.

Day 18 & 19: What's Going On?

I don't know if there is something in the air or what, but too many people I love are having health challenges that are unexplained! Many of you have been following my sister Michele's dilemma with her neck and I so appreciate your concern and healing thoughts for her. As of today the diagnosis is still unknown. After 4 days in the hospital, endless pain medication & antibiotics we still don't know what she has and what the best course of action should be. Next week will bring more tests and hopefully some answers to what led to her severe neck pain. To be continued.

Then this week I had conversations with two old & dear friends and both shared health challenges. One is having a hysterectomy and the other has something going on with her kidney. The latter an unexplained & unknown illness. Very scary & worrisome. The former something was found and treatment is to remove her uterus.

All this news gives me great pause. I have said it before and it is worth repeating: Our health is so vital and when we are not feeling our optimum, life is just not fun and can be very scary. I love all these strong, beautiful women and am so sad that they are having to deal with these health issues.

So if today you are feeling alive & healthy, I suggest you hug yourself, hug the people you love and be grateful that you are healthy!

Sending bountiful healing hugs to my beautiful sisters!

Day 17: Run Robyn Run !!!

Don't worry it's not running for political office again! It's literally RUNNING! As one of my 49th to 50th year intentions I have committed to run a Marathon... that's 26.2 miles for those of you who just aren't sure how difficult this challenge is! And I'm not walking it! I've done that before when I participated in the FIRST Avon 3-Day Walk for Breast & Ovarian Cancer. It was a GREAT experience and we walked from Santa Barbara to Malibu... some 20 miles a day! Just an awesome experience!

But now I want to RUN! A marathon is one of the most challenging athletic tests you can push yourself to accomplish and I figure if not now, when? I've been training vigorously to strengthen my body for the past year. If you didn't know I've trained through enormous pain. I had severe nerve damage resulting from a grueling 18 month political campaign and I've spent a year reducing those physical effects through regular exercise. Much appreciation and thanks go out to my atheltic trainer, Melody Roset (http://www.makotraining.com/), who beleived that despite my endless pain, I could accomplish this personal goal. Thank you Mel!

I recently saw the rewards of my workouts when I signed-up for an exercise class -- outside of my regular training outdoors. It was so exciting to be the only woman in an exercise class that could do push-ups on her toes, not her knees! I challenge you all to make a commitment to start with 5 push-ups a day. I started out not even being able to lift my body with one push-up and this morning I did 30 on my toes -- all the way down! And then there's the plank -- a core strengthening exercise. Again today I did a plank for 2 and a half minutes -- and if you think that's a piece of cake, I'll challenge you anytime as most folks can barely hold themselves up for 10 seconds! I've put my teenage boys to the test and I've won! Try it and you'll see what I mean.

There is something very rewarding about strengthening your body. You feel strong & powerful. So through the intense nerve pain I've kept pushing myself and am now feeling better and running more. I'm still sore and sit on ice packs regularly, but I've got less then a year now to reach my goal of completing a marathon. I hope you'll all join me at the finish line. Run Robyn Run baby!

Day 16: I Have Haters! Hurray!

Chris Rock once said, "You know you made it when you have Haters!" and I know this all too well ... When I was running for City Council I am PROUD to share that I had MANY haters! But now that I am no longer a candidate, I still have people 'hating on' my success.... For example, Robin Sax totally hates me for how many followers I have on my newly launched Blog ... She's so jealous! CLICK HERE TO VIEW! I gotta admit, I love it!!

But this brings up a more serious topic: how do we measure success? Do we measure the successes in our life based on how much money we make -- because no one is paying me to write this blog (yet!) ... Or do we measure the success of our ventures by how many people we touch ...? And even though this is a tongue-in-cheek kind of thing (i.e. the "Haters") it's still a serious question in our lives. I am always examining what matters most. And this blog is an outlet to explore that daily. So suck on that Robin! Haha! If you want to help spur on the rivalry, become a follower of both my Blog & Robin Sax at Robin Sax Blog.

Day 14 & 15: Erasing the Stigma

On Friday I attended the annual Erasing the Stigma fundraiser produced by Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services. I always leave this event inspired by remarkable people who have overcome great odds to make significant contributions. And I am uplifted by the folks who perform outstanding work to help erase the stigma of mental illness. It's always fascinating when the Emcee asks who in the audience knows a person suffering from mental illness and every attendee stands! The truth is we are all affected by those we love who are challenged by their illness.

This year did not disappoint. There was the young woman who shared her story about her older brother who committed suicide in his senior year of college. The experience led Alison Malmon, a college freshman at the time of her brothers suicide to launch an organization committed to young people. Active Minds encourages young adults to talk about what's going on in their lives. Active Minds is committed to talking about suicide and erasing the stigma of mental illness. If young adults are ashamed to talk about how they are feeling they won't seek help.

Last year 1,100 college students committed suicide in the United States. My son Brandon is a freshman at Willamette University in Salem, Oregon. A small liberal arts university and a school not immune to suicide. A student at Willamette took his life this year. I remember feeling so sad when I heard this news. All the promise his parents had had for him and now they would have to retrieve his body and return it home with so many questions unanswered about what he was dealing with that led him to take his life. Thank goodness this young woman Alison Malmon founded an organization where maybe more students can become aware of the signs of potentially suicidal students and encourage them to seek help.

I attended the Didi Hirsch event with my beautiful 17 year old niece Olivia Bernstein who had never been to a charity fundraiser before. She is an inspiration in her own right as a Teen Line Counselor and Camp Harmony mentor. Teen Line is a program offered at Cedars Sinai Medical Center where teenagers are trained to field calls from their peers who are challenged by a host of issues ranging from conflicts with their parents, to child abuse, to their sexual identity, and yes thoughts of suicide. Thank goodness young people like Olivia give of their time to talk to other young people going through a difficult time. And a big shout out to Cheri Yousem who dedicates her time & energy and has for many years to the Didi Hirsch organization and its important mission. She co-chaired this year's event and it was inspirational.

If you know someone struggling with a mental illness please help erase the stigma by directing them to Didi Hirsch http://www.didihirsch.org/ or if you know a young person who needs to talk, please direct them to Active Minds http://www.activeminds.org/.

Day 11 -13: My Sis Is Not Doin' Well

Hi Friends,

The last few days have been emotional. My big sister Michele, who we last saw on the Blog dancing & laughing at The Buggy Whip, has had a bad turn of events with her health. Here she is pictured with one of our oldest friends from middle school, Farrel, in a more celebratory mood.

Earlier this week she had intense pain in her neck which led to an MRI which led to her being admitted to Cedars Sinai Medical Center for observation. When someone you love is ill and the illness is unexplained you are very worried. We have all been upset about the lack of a diagnosis to what she actually has, if anything then a sore neck!

Everyday we strive to be healthy and when someone in your circle is not healthy everything is put into perspective. All else ceases to be important when your health is not in order. Its been a frustrating ordeal not being able to get answers to what is going on, despite the fact that we know she is receiving quality medical attention & more importantly some really great drugs! They've got her pretty doped up on pain medication to help ease her pain. I asked her if she could share them ... but I never did get an answer!

In all seriousness, we all say the most important thing in life is our health, and the truth is, it really is... when you are not well you can't continue being the productive, loving & fun person you are because you don't feel well!

Here's to Michele recovering so she can dance for us again with the piano man at The Buggy Whip!

Michele we love you & wish you healthy thoughts!