Typing this out and even putting that word out into the stratosphere brings me to my knees. We have a name for it but what kind of cancer?
Where?
What can we do about it?
What are our options?
I know that our next step and our next one after that in this horrible journey is going to be important but WHAT do we do? Let's get started!
I am a sleeper. I can sleep thru tornados, noise, turbulence, anything. I once fell asleep at a Harlem Globetrotter's Game in Atlanta. Packed house. Embarrassed but hey, it was a great nap.
Lately, I wake up 6 -7 times a night and think "Ok, this is all a really bad dream."
Who's nightmare did we stumble into anyway? This doesn't happen to us.
We're young and fabulous. Smart and funny. We pay taxes!
My husband and I have always had a great relationship but now, we are like two tiny seahorses clinging to each other in a very big and extremely rough sea.
The CT Scans showed some ugly tumors, more than 5 on his neck. One is so large it is beginning to block the windpipe. That's why all the bloody noses and coughing up blood. (Those have all but stopped now and that fact makes me nervous)
Today, we have to go 3 counties over to get the best but also the quickest consult on a biopsy. Time is a factor now. They keep saying that but yet nothing through this has moved quickly.
I have so many questions but no one has any answers. I suppose this biopsy will tell at least part of the story and I fear it.
There are two words I do NOT want to hear.
Esophageal Cancer.
It's a sad day when you almost welcome the thought of "Throat Cancer" as it has a few options. Hey, we will take anything that has a chance to fight against.
Michael Douglas fought it and won and so can we.
I want to Thank each and every one of you for all of the wonderful heartfelt prayers and notes. Each one makes me cry and each one is a Blessing. You are all appreciated more than you know. Just the thought that you are sending messages to God above gives me hope.
PS. Take extra time for those you love. We take each other for granted. Tomorrow is promised to no one.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Waiting...
Now that we have done what we were ordered to do by the powers that be, our doctor, we sit and we wait. Why am I adding myself to this equation? Because I can. When a loved one gets sick, it effects everyone not just the ill one so I suppose I'm allowed to say I am a part of it all even tho I don't want to be. I am on the outside looking in. blah blah blah.
The doctor ordered CT Scans and blood work and clinical exams but we have been at this almost a week now and do we know what is going on any more than we did on Day 1 ? NO!
As women, we are programmed to fix things. Fight the things that hurt those we love.
What am I fighting here?
I haven't got a clue! That is the worst, most helpless feeling ever! I have my sleeves rolled up, my fierce fighting face on and here I sit....
I cancelled my entire life not knowing what to do next.
I had a court case today at 2:00 but was in the doctor's office. Again. I was to fly to Tampa yesterday but was too worried to leave. My husband says he wants to buy me a new car. Am I excited by that? No. We have a wedding to go to on Saturday. Do we go? Do we kick up our heels and dance and try to ignore this big black elephant that is sitting on top of us?
I see this dark black hole in our lives and it is called our FUTURE? Am I being dramatic? Probably.
Everything. I mean every little thing is riding on the outcome of these tests.
Family, friends, the people that are a part of our lives want answers. How is he? What do the doctors say?
He's ..... I'll be damned if I know.
The lumps on his neck are growing. What was once 3 lumps is now 5 lumps. What was once the size of a lime is now the size of a larger lime. The bloody noses have all but stopped. He still coughs up small amounts of blood but it's not as scary as it used to be. His voice is getting worse and his difficulty swallowing is an issue that is getting more to be concerned about daily and what are we doing about it?
NOTHING!!!!!
I want to cuss and poke someone right in the nose!
Ok, deep breath.
The weekend is coming and what will we do about it? Again, nothing. Get up each day and do what we have been doing.
Here is my husbands quote of the week.
"Life's journey is not to arrive at your grave safely in a well preserved body but to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting
"Holy Shit!... What a Ride!"
I like his style and told him, "Let's fly to Pompeii. Let's spend the next 3 days in Australia.
Let's go do something really crazy."
Where is he right now? Back at work. At his desk putting out fires and solving problems.
I want to make a video. Yeah, one about how I do my hair.
It seems so lame so I won't.
The doctor ordered CT Scans and blood work and clinical exams but we have been at this almost a week now and do we know what is going on any more than we did on Day 1 ? NO!
As women, we are programmed to fix things. Fight the things that hurt those we love.
What am I fighting here?
I haven't got a clue! That is the worst, most helpless feeling ever! I have my sleeves rolled up, my fierce fighting face on and here I sit....
I cancelled my entire life not knowing what to do next.
I had a court case today at 2:00 but was in the doctor's office. Again. I was to fly to Tampa yesterday but was too worried to leave. My husband says he wants to buy me a new car. Am I excited by that? No. We have a wedding to go to on Saturday. Do we go? Do we kick up our heels and dance and try to ignore this big black elephant that is sitting on top of us?
I see this dark black hole in our lives and it is called our FUTURE? Am I being dramatic? Probably.
Everything. I mean every little thing is riding on the outcome of these tests.
Family, friends, the people that are a part of our lives want answers. How is he? What do the doctors say?
He's ..... I'll be damned if I know.
The lumps on his neck are growing. What was once 3 lumps is now 5 lumps. What was once the size of a lime is now the size of a larger lime. The bloody noses have all but stopped. He still coughs up small amounts of blood but it's not as scary as it used to be. His voice is getting worse and his difficulty swallowing is an issue that is getting more to be concerned about daily and what are we doing about it?
NOTHING!!!!!
I want to cuss and poke someone right in the nose!
Ok, deep breath.
The weekend is coming and what will we do about it? Again, nothing. Get up each day and do what we have been doing.
Here is my husbands quote of the week.
"Life's journey is not to arrive at your grave safely in a well preserved body but to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting
"Holy Shit!... What a Ride!"
I like his style and told him, "Let's fly to Pompeii. Let's spend the next 3 days in Australia.
Let's go do something really crazy."
Where is he right now? Back at work. At his desk putting out fires and solving problems.
I want to make a video. Yeah, one about how I do my hair.
It seems so lame so I won't.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
A Journey of Fear
Today I'm writing this blog more as a way to write a note to myself. I want to cry and scream and do SOMETHING! But what?
My best friend, my husband seems to be in trouble. I know I say things about him at times in my videos to be funny but this isn't funny.
He has been my "straight man" for years now. You know, the one that laughs at my corny jokes and keeps it all in perspective but I see him laughing and trying to hide it.
Poor man. He's had to live with me for so long. He tells me daily that no one laughs harder at my silliness than me and he's right. I met and fell in love with him because he makes me laugh. Daily. He is my light. He keeps me from spinning out of control.
Lately, he has had these spells where he coughs up blood but never says a word about it to anyone. (I see traces in the bathroom) Now bloody noses every day. His appetite isn't what it used to be, his voice is raspy, difficulty swallowing and most upsetting of all both sides of his neck have these massive lumps. The one on the left is the size of a lime!
Finally, FINALLY, this last Thursday he agreed to go see our family doctor. My husband never goes to the doctor and never ever complains. Ever! I stub my toe and will complain for a week.
Our doctor was even scared. I could tell from his reactions to the symptoms.
He has a CT Scan scheduled for Tuesday. To say I am not worried is an exaggeration to say the least.
I looked on-line for signs and symptoms relating to what he is going thru and that scared me even more! I had to slam my laptop closed and cry. Michael Douglas.
His mom is 95 and in a nursing home. He is a workaholic and...
Oh, there are so many things I could write to the good of this wonderful man but it makes me cry. I refuse to cry when he's around.
I'm scared.
I can't even imagine his fears. The worst part is not knowing. This isn't happening to ME but I've never felt such fear.
Tuesday seems light years from now. I want to blink my eyes and have this all be a dream. Forever the optimist I pray for a good outcome.
Dear God....
My best friend, my husband seems to be in trouble. I know I say things about him at times in my videos to be funny but this isn't funny.
He has been my "straight man" for years now. You know, the one that laughs at my corny jokes and keeps it all in perspective but I see him laughing and trying to hide it.
Poor man. He's had to live with me for so long. He tells me daily that no one laughs harder at my silliness than me and he's right. I met and fell in love with him because he makes me laugh. Daily. He is my light. He keeps me from spinning out of control.
Lately, he has had these spells where he coughs up blood but never says a word about it to anyone. (I see traces in the bathroom) Now bloody noses every day. His appetite isn't what it used to be, his voice is raspy, difficulty swallowing and most upsetting of all both sides of his neck have these massive lumps. The one on the left is the size of a lime!
Finally, FINALLY, this last Thursday he agreed to go see our family doctor. My husband never goes to the doctor and never ever complains. Ever! I stub my toe and will complain for a week.
Our doctor was even scared. I could tell from his reactions to the symptoms.
He has a CT Scan scheduled for Tuesday. To say I am not worried is an exaggeration to say the least.
I looked on-line for signs and symptoms relating to what he is going thru and that scared me even more! I had to slam my laptop closed and cry. Michael Douglas.
His mom is 95 and in a nursing home. He is a workaholic and...
Oh, there are so many things I could write to the good of this wonderful man but it makes me cry. I refuse to cry when he's around.
I'm scared.
I can't even imagine his fears. The worst part is not knowing. This isn't happening to ME but I've never felt such fear.
Tuesday seems light years from now. I want to blink my eyes and have this all be a dream. Forever the optimist I pray for a good outcome.
Dear God....
Friday, June 3, 2011
My Guerlain Cosmetics Story
Ahhh, Guerlain... What can I say. To me it's like the Cadillac of Cosmetics.
Expensive but aren't we worth it?
Some days applying my makeup is a drudge. Since buying a few things from the Guerlain Cosmetics line, I think it's become a luxury. I Enjoy it and look forward to it.
First, apply the L'OR Radiance Concentrate. It has tiny flecks of visible 24 karat gold floating in the bottle. What more can you ask for on your face. While it goes on smoothly, it blends in and has a wonderful cooling vibrant effect on your face. I liken it to a man. Not long lasting but still worth the effort.
Elegance!
Next I apply the Precious Light Rejuvenating Illuminator
I was calling this a concealer but it's so much more than that. I put it on my trouble spots, nose, under eyes, anywhere and it glides on so smoothly and covers while illuminating.
Sheer Bliss for the entire face!
Add foundation or go it alone with Terre Cotta 4 Seasons Bronzer
This is sheer with no shimmers to settle into fine lines. Goes on like a dream and gives the illusion you have spent a month in St. Tropez frolicking in the azure blue waters.....
I chose it in #1 Blonde. I read reviews that the #2 Brunette was somewhat orange on the skin so Blonde it is! We have more FUN anyway... shhh
Smooth, Flawless Summer Skin with no baking in the sun.
(Unless you are in St. Tropez)
Then there is my favorite.
The Meteorite Pearls with the special brush. The smell alone is Heavenly. Like summer violets in the evening. Wistful~
The Guerlain Lipsticks are a treasure in themselves.
Each one so different but so lovely.
First, I bought the Kiss Kiss which is a lipstick with a bit of a duo-chrome built in for a sexy glossy look. I chose it in "Baby Shine" a soft baby pink with so much shine and softness on your lips. You have to wear it to love it although I loved the color at 1st sight.
Next is the most FUN you'll ever have with a lipstick. The Automatique. It's as trendy as the most elegant cigarette lighter and I don't smoke! Whipping that out to touch up your lipstick is an event.
I chose the color "Bloom of Rose" which is a pretty coral pink that is simply divine!
And last but certainly not least... The Guerlain Jewel compact Lipstick.
It has a built-in mirror and simply drips with Class and Distinction. No, It SHOUTS Glamor! Pull this out to freshen up your face and you will stop people cold in their tracks. I love the packaging on this one as much as the shade I chose which is "Gigi" a color straight from Paris or my handbag (or Yours) Long Lasting too!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Does Money REALLY Talk?
Ok, I went to a Fashion Mall on a Saturday to shop, then meet friends and hubby for dinner later at our favorite restaurant. I had on one of my favorite white Chanel suits, Christian Louboutin shoes and a Christian Louboutin handbag.
No big deal.
I was on a mission to shop, look and see what the new fashions are for today and for the upcoming Summer Season (I have a HUGE June wedding to attend and several gala events and need to find the perfect outfit for each) so I brought along my bright pink camera and took off.
I strolled into MAC Cosmetics, Bebe, several small boutiques and lastly Saks 5th Avenue. (I even saw two adorable YouTube subscribers and had my camera rolling for most of it.)
I touched the Gucci bags, the Chanel suits and jewelry, I saw a dog. I was treated well and even complimented by Sales Assistants galore. Department heads spoke to me and said a cheery "Hello" everywhere I went. It was a fun happy day. My little flip cam only has an hour memory so I filmed and then seriously shopped but when the memory and the cash ran out, I left.
No big deal.
A week later after editing and time allowed, I posted the video as so many of my lovely subscribers enjoy "window shopping" as much as I do.
In the comment section of my video I was told many times...
"They were nice to you because money talks and you were dressed up."
Could that be true? Does looking and acting like you have MONEY make that big of a difference? Do retailers treat you differently if you are in designer clothes than if you are wearing jeans and a sweatshirt? Surely NO!
I told my husband that I was going to conduct an experiment and see if that could possibly be true. I set out to do just that.
I first did my hair and makeup as I normally would. Wore a Chanel skirt, Boston Proper Blazer and Red lizard Christian Louboutin shoes and carried a Prada handbag.
I set out for the local mall 20 minutes away.
I strolled into Macy's like I owned the place with my little bright pink camera at arms length as I had done the week prior. I spoke to every sales clerk I could find. I was not shopping, I was experimenting. I practically shoved the camera into their faces, not to skew the experiment but to make it as obvious as possible that I was filming and to say
"Hey, look at me!" Everyone was friendly, helpful, and again, very complimentary. I went into The Gap, Kohl's, even a high end jewelry store and all were so pleasant and gushed their sweet "hellos"to me.
I saw two male security guards on Segways who waved at me and said a flirty "Hi There."
I spent a good hour or more at the mall without incident.
I drove back home.
I tousled my hair and changed my clothes into cut off sweat pants and a matching sweatshirt. White Walmart ballet flats covered my toes. Back to the mall I drove, bright pink camera in tow.
I first went into JC Penny. I saw a friend.
I was said hello to but nothing was said good or bad. Next I ventured out further. Would I be rejected? Surely not!
It all went so wrong very soon.
I was told to stop filming and no cameras by each and every store I walked in to. What? I was just there an hour prior and was allowed to film and was treated so nicely.
What the hell happened?
In most stores, I was kicked out almost as soon as I entered. I was shocked and felt like a criminal! Store after store I was told to turn off the camera and asked to leave. (I really didn't look THAT bad, did I?) Some were rude about it. Some were not but I got the message. Did I really look like a thug out casing the place with my bright pink camera?
The last store I entered, same response. No Pictures!
I left quietly. Rejection isn't fun let me tell you. My fabulousness was fading FAST and it all left me with a sad feeling in the pit of my stomach. I kept walking and was about to enter the Kohl's Department Store I had been in earlier when I was dressed up.....
I passed a security guard. His face told the story. He looked at me like I had a BOMB!
I didn't. I was only armed in bad clothes and a camera.
Do I hear SIRENS????
OMG.
Sirens wailing and my camera rolling, I was converged upon not by ONE but SEVEN security guards and told to hand over my camera.
I was questioned. They took my name and phone number.
I tried to explain. I was conducting an experiment.
Not listening....
I told these officers of the law that I have a YouTube channel and was just doing a test to see if Money Talks.
Not winning....
They told me to delete my film and footage.
I did for some but not all. (Too bad I had to delete the parts where I was questioned by them) Priceless.
Luckily there was one female officer. When I explained myself for the 3rd time, her eyes locked with mine and she said... "Ok, I get it. I see what she was doing."
I wasn't arrested or given a citation. I was given a Code of Conduct brochure and told to leave the mall.
I did just that in my Victorias Secret sweatpants and shirt and Walmart shoes. I have never felt so ugly and beat down as I did at that moment.
I was the Jeffery Dahmer of the mall.
I called my husband who was mad.
I called my daughter in law who was sympathetic.
I actually felt depressed about the entire ordeal. ( I am never depressed or down)
My little "experiment" told the story.
How many young mothers go the mall or out for the day that do not have the TIME to dress up? It wasn't fun to be treated that way. Granted, I was wrong filming but what happened to all the love I was given when I was dressed up and filming? Huh?
To be honest, I feel mad and disgusted.
Money does talk and it's just WRONG what it says. Shut Up Money... You're Lame.
Now, where's my bright pink camera?
Watch the video complete with sirens on YouTube here:
http://youtu.be/TU0nh7awjPs
Famous Quotes about money:
~ I like my money where I can see it... Hanging in my closet. -- Carrie Bradshaw
~ Ever wonder about those people who spend $2 apiece on those little bottles of Evian water? Try spelling Evian backward. — George Carlin
~ Someone stole all my credit cards, but I won’t be reporting it. The thief spends less than my wife did. — Henny Youngman
~ No one would remember the Good Samaritan if he’d only had good intentions. He had money, too. — Margaret Thatcher
~ I finally know what distinguishes man from other beasts: financial worries. — Jules Renard
~ Don’t marry for money. You can borrow it cheaper. — Scottish proverb
~ Money can’t buy happiness; it can, however, rent it. — Author unknown
No big deal.
I was on a mission to shop, look and see what the new fashions are for today and for the upcoming Summer Season (I have a HUGE June wedding to attend and several gala events and need to find the perfect outfit for each) so I brought along my bright pink camera and took off.
I strolled into MAC Cosmetics, Bebe, several small boutiques and lastly Saks 5th Avenue. (I even saw two adorable YouTube subscribers and had my camera rolling for most of it.)
I touched the Gucci bags, the Chanel suits and jewelry, I saw a dog. I was treated well and even complimented by Sales Assistants galore. Department heads spoke to me and said a cheery "Hello" everywhere I went. It was a fun happy day. My little flip cam only has an hour memory so I filmed and then seriously shopped but when the memory and the cash ran out, I left.
No big deal.
A week later after editing and time allowed, I posted the video as so many of my lovely subscribers enjoy "window shopping" as much as I do.
In the comment section of my video I was told many times...
"They were nice to you because money talks and you were dressed up."
Could that be true? Does looking and acting like you have MONEY make that big of a difference? Do retailers treat you differently if you are in designer clothes than if you are wearing jeans and a sweatshirt? Surely NO!
I told my husband that I was going to conduct an experiment and see if that could possibly be true. I set out to do just that.
I first did my hair and makeup as I normally would. Wore a Chanel skirt, Boston Proper Blazer and Red lizard Christian Louboutin shoes and carried a Prada handbag.
I set out for the local mall 20 minutes away.
I strolled into Macy's like I owned the place with my little bright pink camera at arms length as I had done the week prior. I spoke to every sales clerk I could find. I was not shopping, I was experimenting. I practically shoved the camera into their faces, not to skew the experiment but to make it as obvious as possible that I was filming and to say
"Hey, look at me!" Everyone was friendly, helpful, and again, very complimentary. I went into The Gap, Kohl's, even a high end jewelry store and all were so pleasant and gushed their sweet "hellos"to me.
I saw two male security guards on Segways who waved at me and said a flirty "Hi There."
I spent a good hour or more at the mall without incident.
I drove back home.
I tousled my hair and changed my clothes into cut off sweat pants and a matching sweatshirt. White Walmart ballet flats covered my toes. Back to the mall I drove, bright pink camera in tow.
I first went into JC Penny. I saw a friend.
I was said hello to but nothing was said good or bad. Next I ventured out further. Would I be rejected? Surely not!
It all went so wrong very soon.
I was told to stop filming and no cameras by each and every store I walked in to. What? I was just there an hour prior and was allowed to film and was treated so nicely.
What the hell happened?
In most stores, I was kicked out almost as soon as I entered. I was shocked and felt like a criminal! Store after store I was told to turn off the camera and asked to leave. (I really didn't look THAT bad, did I?) Some were rude about it. Some were not but I got the message. Did I really look like a thug out casing the place with my bright pink camera?
The last store I entered, same response. No Pictures!
I left quietly. Rejection isn't fun let me tell you. My fabulousness was fading FAST and it all left me with a sad feeling in the pit of my stomach. I kept walking and was about to enter the Kohl's Department Store I had been in earlier when I was dressed up.....
I passed a security guard. His face told the story. He looked at me like I had a BOMB!
I didn't. I was only armed in bad clothes and a camera.
Do I hear SIRENS????
OMG.
Sirens wailing and my camera rolling, I was converged upon not by ONE but SEVEN security guards and told to hand over my camera.
I was questioned. They took my name and phone number.
I tried to explain. I was conducting an experiment.
Not listening....
I told these officers of the law that I have a YouTube channel and was just doing a test to see if Money Talks.
Not winning....
They told me to delete my film and footage.
I did for some but not all. (Too bad I had to delete the parts where I was questioned by them) Priceless.
Luckily there was one female officer. When I explained myself for the 3rd time, her eyes locked with mine and she said... "Ok, I get it. I see what she was doing."
I wasn't arrested or given a citation. I was given a Code of Conduct brochure and told to leave the mall.
I did just that in my Victorias Secret sweatpants and shirt and Walmart shoes. I have never felt so ugly and beat down as I did at that moment.
I was the Jeffery Dahmer of the mall.
I called my husband who was mad.
I called my daughter in law who was sympathetic.
I actually felt depressed about the entire ordeal. ( I am never depressed or down)
My little "experiment" told the story.
How many young mothers go the mall or out for the day that do not have the TIME to dress up? It wasn't fun to be treated that way. Granted, I was wrong filming but what happened to all the love I was given when I was dressed up and filming? Huh?
To be honest, I feel mad and disgusted.
Money does talk and it's just WRONG what it says. Shut Up Money... You're Lame.
Now, where's my bright pink camera?
Watch the video complete with sirens on YouTube here:
http://youtu.be/TU0nh7awjPs
Famous Quotes about money:
~ I like my money where I can see it... Hanging in my closet. -- Carrie Bradshaw
~ Ever wonder about those people who spend $2 apiece on those little bottles of Evian water? Try spelling Evian backward. — George Carlin
~ Someone stole all my credit cards, but I won’t be reporting it. The thief spends less than my wife did. — Henny Youngman
~ No one would remember the Good Samaritan if he’d only had good intentions. He had money, too. — Margaret Thatcher
~ I finally know what distinguishes man from other beasts: financial worries. — Jules Renard
~ Don’t marry for money. You can borrow it cheaper. — Scottish proverb
~ Money can’t buy happiness; it can, however, rent it. — Author unknown
Saturday, February 5, 2011
I'm Going to be a CASA
Ok, it's not like I have SO much time on my hands to spare these days but this subject has really, I mean REALLY been weighing on my mind to get involved in and so I am jumping in feet first and am really excited about it.
That is joining and becoming a member of CASA.
There is a part of me that has always regretted not going to college and then on to Law School. It was always a dream of mine to be in a court of law and also to help Children in need.
I have been one of those kids.
Ending up in Foster Care and in the System, I know a thing or two about how children feel and react to adversity in their family. I do know that so many kids in bad situations fall through the cracks and live miserable lives.
Perhaps I can change that? I hope so.
As I said, I am super excited about this. Classes start in February and last 6 weeks and a few Saturdays. I hope I can be a "Voice" for some child out there that needs to be heard. I've always felt I would like to take in Foster Kids some day and this may be the start of something new....
What is a CASA you might ask?
That is joining and becoming a member of CASA.
There is a part of me that has always regretted not going to college and then on to Law School. It was always a dream of mine to be in a court of law and also to help Children in need.
I have been one of those kids.
Ending up in Foster Care and in the System, I know a thing or two about how children feel and react to adversity in their family. I do know that so many kids in bad situations fall through the cracks and live miserable lives.
Perhaps I can change that? I hope so.
As I said, I am super excited about this. Classes start in February and last 6 weeks and a few Saturdays. I hope I can be a "Voice" for some child out there that needs to be heard. I've always felt I would like to take in Foster Kids some day and this may be the start of something new....
Maybe this information will give someone else the impetus to help children in your community to be heard. If we can help even just ONE child, we have done something good.
I Hope So.
Love Always,
Lana
What is a CASA you might ask?
A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained citizen who is appointed by a judge to represent the best interests of a child in court. Most of the children are victims of abuse and neglect, and have been removed from their homes. Children helped by CASAs include those for whom placement is being determined in juvenile court.
A CASA provides a judge with carefully researched background details about the child to help the court make a sound decision about that child's future. Each home placement case is as unique as the child involved. The CASA must determine if the best interest of the child is staying with their parents or guardians, being placed in foster care, or being freed for permanent adoption. The CASA makes a recommendation on placement to the judge and follows through on the case until it is permanently resolved.
To prepare a recommendation, the CASA talks with the child, parents, family members, social workers, school officials, health providers and others who are knowledgeable about the child's history. The CASA also reviews all records pertaining to the child including school, medical, case worker reports and other documents.
Social workers generally are employed by state governments, sometimes working on as many as 30 cases at a time; they are frequently unable to conduct a comprehensive investigation of each case. The CASA has more time and a smaller case load (average of 1-2 cases). The CASA does not replace a social worker on a case; they are an independent appointee of the court. The CASA thoroughly examines a child's case, knows about various community resources and makes recommendations to the court, independent of other involved parties.
The CASA does not provide legal representation in the courtroom-that is the role of the attorney. However, the CASA does provide crucial background information that assists attorneys in presenting their cases. It is important to remember that CASAs do not represent a child's wishes in court. Rather, they speak for the child's best interests.
CASAs come from all walks of life and possess a variety of professional, educational and ethnic backgrounds. There are more than 70,000 CASAs nationally. Local programs vary in number of volunteers they utilize. Aside from their CASA work, 64 percent are employed in full- or part-time jobs; the majority tend to be professionals with 58% being college or university graduates. The majority (82%) of the advocates nationwide are women.
Through developing a relationship with a child, CASAs find out what the child wants and needs. By using their advocacy power, CASAs learn if education, counseling, or improved parenting will give children their best chance for safe and happy childhoods. It is within this role that CASAs best serve children, the court system, and ultimately their own communities. But the greatest benefit is to Arizona's children!
The number varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but an average case load is one to two.
Yes. Juvenile and family court judges implement the CASA program in their courtrooms and appoint advocates. CASA has been endorsed by the American Bar Association, the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, and the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention of the U.S. Department of Justice.
CASA is a priority project of the Department of Justice's Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. The office encourages the establishment of new CASA programs, assists established CASA programs, and provides partial funding for the National CASA Association.
There are now 930 CASA programs in every state across the country, including Washington DC and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Arizona has a program for each county or a total of 15 offices.
Preliminary findings show that children who have been assigned CASAs tend to spend less time in the foster care system and received more services than those who do not have CASA representation. Judges have observed that children with a CASA also have better chances of finding permanent homes.
Each case is different. CASAs typically volunteer between 15 - 20 hours a month.
The volunteer continues until the case is permanently resolved. One of the primary benefits of the CASA program is that, unlike other court principals who often rotate through cases, the CASA is a consistent figure in the proceedings and provides continuity for a child.
No. There are other child advocacy organizations, but CASA is the only program where volunteers are appointed by the court to represent a child's best interests.
Children who are victims of abuse and neglect and become wards of the court are assigned CASAs. The program is most common in juvenile and family court cases.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Getting OLD
Hello Everyone~
Sorry I have neglected my blog so badly lately. Life has gotten busy. No excuse for letting it get like all Slum Dog Millionaire over here tho.
Anyway, I just wanted to write a quick post about the Dreaded Aging process and today's misperception of it.
Why and how did people get to the sad impression that just because we continue to have birthdays on a regular basis that we are no longer allowed to be FUN and to be an acceptable part of today's society? When we hit age 40 years old and over, are we all supposed to cut our hair off, dye it blue/grey with a helmet-head perm, wear drab clothes, FLAT sensible shoes, sit in a rocking chair and KNIT???? *shudder*
Good Grief! That sounds like a death sentence to me! Ugh.
Don't get me wrong, I have many girlfriends that have done just that. WHY? No wonder they are grumpy, bitter and act so menopausal!
To each their own I guess. I believe in "Live and Let Live" but that's not Me!
I want to be an active positive part of this society we live in not some burden that rots away and becomes so drab that we disappear. I look around in my daily travels and see the typical 55 and above woman or what is the "Society-Accepted" over 55 woman and they ALL look alike! The exact same
Grey hair, short perm, flat shoes, no makeup, & drab drab drab. I love being a Rule-Breaker and REFUSE to go there. WHO says we must?
I believe that age-old cliche' that you are only as old as you feel.
I KNOW I'm 55 and perhaps act a goof at times but you know what?????
I am having FUN!
Life got in the way in my younger years. I had my children young. All I ever wanted as a kid was a family, so I created my own. My kids are my life.
In the 70's, having children in your early 20's was the norm. Too bad that I didn't see the value of higher education back then. I graduated from the School of Hard Knocks and it got me thru just fine so I'll accept that, but if I had my life to live again, I would have gone to college come Hell or High Water! An education is something NO ONE can ever take from you. That said, let me get back to my original subject.... Age.
When we are in our teens and twenties, we think anyone over 35 is an Antique. Ha!
That day will creep up on you so fast your head will spin! Then what will you do?
You will accept it and do one of the following:
1. Become the society approved version of an "Old Lady" as in dressing appropriately (some MAN made up that extremely dumbass rule)
2. Fight it and have surgeries, injectables, Botox, etc. (Those things wear off then what?) The Trout-Pout isn't pretty to me.
3. Accept it and make the most of it.
4. Ignore it.
I choose options # 3 and 4.
I used to fight it. I would lie.
Oh, would I lie!
I actually changed my F/A ID to reflect -10 years off my age. What a dork!
I used lie to everyone that would listen to me that I was a good ten years younger than I actually was.
I can tell you the exact day I stopped lying about my age....
I was talking to my Mom and she was a habitual liar about her age. (She didn't corner the market on that... A TON of women under 40 lie about their age as well. It's no big deal)
My Mom was was a beauty, had great genes and a very youthful appearance.
Anyway, the day I turned 50 she told me that SHE was 50. She was 73 at the time.
I said, "Mom, how can you be 50 when I am 50?"
Her response.... "I tell EVERYONE I am 50!"
I, at that moment, realized how absolutely dumb that sounded and what an ass I was making of myself to LIE about my age!
I stopped lying, accepted that I was half a century old and never have and never will lie about my age again. EVER!
Once I accepted myself for my age and embraced all of my 50+ years, I just seemed to see myself differently and love the age I am. It was a Lightbulb Moment for me.
Someday I will cut my hair off, wear sensible flat shoes, and get a grey perm but until that day clicks in my head.... Hell No!
To me, there is no crime in trying to be the best you are. In spirit I am still 17 and I for one hope that the little kid in me never goes away. The inner child in me can get on the floor with my darling grandkids, play with Play-Doh, Barbies, and Trucks and act like a 6 years old. That's easy. Acting my over a century old- age is harder for me.
On my YouTube Channel I get probably 100 - 200 messages each and every day from women that say I have inspired them to get up in the morning, do their hair and makeup and be FABULOUS. I hope so!
Sure, it would be so easy to fall off that very thin ledge...
Wear sweat pants all day, don't fix my hair, slosh around with no makeup and be sloppy but is that me? No.
I enjoy makeup, fashion and LIFE!
I'm not ready to give up. I hope I never am! I'll have plenty of time for that when I am too busy chasing all the hot, over 80 year olds in a nursing home. Ha! (That's a joke)
The people that love me don't care how old I am. My friends come in all age ranges and don't "see" me as OLD, My husband loves me more each year and my Grandkids don't see my wrinkles nor do they think of me as OLD.
My son said in front of my grandson one day~
"Carter, Mimi is getting to be an Old Lady."
My grandson thought about that for few seconds and said in an angry voice....
"No Daddy, My Mimi is a NEW Lady!"
God Love that child.
In closing I say Happy Birthday to all of you. Birthdays are Blessed events and I for one hope to have many more. You see, I have a LOT to live for and want to enjoy each and every day to it's exact fullest.
I know who and what I am and I embrace it.
If I don't ACT my age, is it a crime? No.
If I don't dress my age, is it a crime? No.
I"m enjoying my life and hope you all do the same.
I've gotta jet off now. I am joining friends for a day of lunch, bowling, shopping, and then an Anniversary Dinner with my wonderful husband.
Not bad for an "Old Lady, huh?
Sorry I have neglected my blog so badly lately. Life has gotten busy. No excuse for letting it get like all Slum Dog Millionaire over here tho.
Anyway, I just wanted to write a quick post about the Dreaded Aging process and today's misperception of it.
Why and how did people get to the sad impression that just because we continue to have birthdays on a regular basis that we are no longer allowed to be FUN and to be an acceptable part of today's society? When we hit age 40 years old and over, are we all supposed to cut our hair off, dye it blue/grey with a helmet-head perm, wear drab clothes, FLAT sensible shoes, sit in a rocking chair and KNIT???? *shudder*
Good Grief! That sounds like a death sentence to me! Ugh.
Don't get me wrong, I have many girlfriends that have done just that. WHY? No wonder they are grumpy, bitter and act so menopausal!
To each their own I guess. I believe in "Live and Let Live" but that's not Me!
I want to be an active positive part of this society we live in not some burden that rots away and becomes so drab that we disappear. I look around in my daily travels and see the typical 55 and above woman or what is the "Society-Accepted" over 55 woman and they ALL look alike! The exact same
Grey hair, short perm, flat shoes, no makeup, & drab drab drab. I love being a Rule-Breaker and REFUSE to go there. WHO says we must?
I believe that age-old cliche' that you are only as old as you feel.
I KNOW I'm 55 and perhaps act a goof at times but you know what?????
I am having FUN!
Life got in the way in my younger years. I had my children young. All I ever wanted as a kid was a family, so I created my own. My kids are my life.
In the 70's, having children in your early 20's was the norm. Too bad that I didn't see the value of higher education back then. I graduated from the School of Hard Knocks and it got me thru just fine so I'll accept that, but if I had my life to live again, I would have gone to college come Hell or High Water! An education is something NO ONE can ever take from you. That said, let me get back to my original subject.... Age.
When we are in our teens and twenties, we think anyone over 35 is an Antique. Ha!
That day will creep up on you so fast your head will spin! Then what will you do?
You will accept it and do one of the following:
1. Become the society approved version of an "Old Lady" as in dressing appropriately (some MAN made up that extremely dumbass rule)
2. Fight it and have surgeries, injectables, Botox, etc. (Those things wear off then what?) The Trout-Pout isn't pretty to me.
3. Accept it and make the most of it.
4. Ignore it.
I choose options # 3 and 4.
I used to fight it. I would lie.
Oh, would I lie!
I actually changed my F/A ID to reflect -10 years off my age. What a dork!
I used lie to everyone that would listen to me that I was a good ten years younger than I actually was.
I can tell you the exact day I stopped lying about my age....
I was talking to my Mom and she was a habitual liar about her age. (She didn't corner the market on that... A TON of women under 40 lie about their age as well. It's no big deal)
My Mom was was a beauty, had great genes and a very youthful appearance.
Anyway, the day I turned 50 she told me that SHE was 50. She was 73 at the time.
I said, "Mom, how can you be 50 when I am 50?"
Her response.... "I tell EVERYONE I am 50!"
I, at that moment, realized how absolutely dumb that sounded and what an ass I was making of myself to LIE about my age!
I stopped lying, accepted that I was half a century old and never have and never will lie about my age again. EVER!
Once I accepted myself for my age and embraced all of my 50+ years, I just seemed to see myself differently and love the age I am. It was a Lightbulb Moment for me.
Someday I will cut my hair off, wear sensible flat shoes, and get a grey perm but until that day clicks in my head.... Hell No!
To me, there is no crime in trying to be the best you are. In spirit I am still 17 and I for one hope that the little kid in me never goes away. The inner child in me can get on the floor with my darling grandkids, play with Play-Doh, Barbies, and Trucks and act like a 6 years old. That's easy. Acting my over a century old- age is harder for me.
On my YouTube Channel I get probably 100 - 200 messages each and every day from women that say I have inspired them to get up in the morning, do their hair and makeup and be FABULOUS. I hope so!
Sure, it would be so easy to fall off that very thin ledge...
Wear sweat pants all day, don't fix my hair, slosh around with no makeup and be sloppy but is that me? No.
I enjoy makeup, fashion and LIFE!
I'm not ready to give up. I hope I never am! I'll have plenty of time for that when I am too busy chasing all the hot, over 80 year olds in a nursing home. Ha! (That's a joke)
The people that love me don't care how old I am. My friends come in all age ranges and don't "see" me as OLD, My husband loves me more each year and my Grandkids don't see my wrinkles nor do they think of me as OLD.
My son said in front of my grandson one day~
"Carter, Mimi is getting to be an Old Lady."
My grandson thought about that for few seconds and said in an angry voice....
"No Daddy, My Mimi is a NEW Lady!"
God Love that child.
In closing I say Happy Birthday to all of you. Birthdays are Blessed events and I for one hope to have many more. You see, I have a LOT to live for and want to enjoy each and every day to it's exact fullest.
I know who and what I am and I embrace it.
If I don't ACT my age, is it a crime? No.
If I don't dress my age, is it a crime? No.
I"m enjoying my life and hope you all do the same.
I've gotta jet off now. I am joining friends for a day of lunch, bowling, shopping, and then an Anniversary Dinner with my wonderful husband.
Not bad for an "Old Lady, huh?
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