Monday, 28 March 2016

A Day In the Land Of Oz

On March 26, 2016 we made a dent in the universe. We brought change to forefront of people's eyes and ears. 

I am so proud to say that my first fundraiser was nothing short than a success. Sure, I didn't have tons of people, but I had one incredibly wise and kind woman come to interview me. We did have at least 25-30 people show up! 

I don't think I could have chose any better of speakers to speak to us that day. 
Paulie Obryne shared his story with us and it was absolutely compelling. Not a single person was left with a dry eye in the room. As I was told by one woman yesterday, it wasn't so much the fat that he had been raped, but at 21? She said. "We do everything to protect our babies when they are younger and older too..." And similar to Paulie her sons played competitive hockey too. 

We spoke of fear, shame and greatness. We opened our hearts and our minds to think bigger- to think outside the box and raise some money while we can-- and we did. 
Over $1000 from my first event and I couldn't be more thrilled or thankful for all that supported me by coming out, helping out, donating, or feeding me words of wisdom and faith.

What we took away from this was not enough people are sharing their experiences like Sabaina, Kristi, Paulie or myself. My audience members were 'moved to the core" and I have a feeling they were not anticipating that and that's ok! That's the point of this, to normalize these conversations. It isn't easy, but as I went to grab donation gifts from a close friend she disclosed to me that the previous weekend she had lost two students to suicide. 

Emotionally discombobulated she turns to me and says "I had seen her turn dark when she was my student-- I should have said or done something then." We all have thoughts like that one way or another when a loved one passes. We grieve and question if we did everything right, or where we went wrong, but the reality in these scenarios is that YOU are NOT the reason they made that choice.   We make the choice. Our heads and brain can get to a state that is so low, we can so easily convince ourselves that it is for the better, we are a burden to our friends and family and likely society....

Can you imagine those feelings and pressure? I can. I can still visualize them well, but they are so far and few between, they have become a somewhat normal strand of thinking in my head, but thankfully for me it is 'well this is an option" and I so quickly come back into reality and think "wow! no! I've been there before. It's not happening. I'm here for a purpose..." and I remind myself all my 'whys'

-I love my family and students too much
-I'm determined to see change
-I'm determined to not let life's problems hit me in such a gruelling way 
-I have to let go of things that no longer serve me purpose and I have to do an "inventory" monthly of what or who that is. 
-I have worked so hard to get where I am and I feel physically and mentally stronger than I ever have
-The world needs survivors and that counts for anyone reading this. We need more individuals who are willing to take the reign of sobriety and show up and work it. There is no life more rich and fulfilling than our own, why waste it? Literally. 

When it gets old, come talk to me.  


I can't wait to rock another one of these events. 
If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact me at 
Dorothy.colleen.rennie24@gmail.com

More soon..
Love, 
Colleen 





Thursday, 24 March 2016

WHERES THE SUPPORT AT?!?!


Let me ask you something: 

Do you or anyone you know struggle with mental health/mental illness?

Do you understand the lack of resources we have in Canada and that we are STILL the ONLY G8 country without a National Suicide Strategy? Thanks to organizations such as Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention - CASP who have proposed a blue print "we have put forward our Blueprint as a starting point, hoping to challenge, motivate and assist our lawmakers and governments
to fulfill their leadership roles."

"As researchers, authors and suicide prevention leaders, we have tried to address issues, needed improvements, and emerging promising practices in a practical, achievable and humane
manner. "
If you know me then you know I suffer with depression, anxiety and have a learning exceptionality as well. But this isn't about me, it's about YOU. It's about YOUR FRIENDS, YOUR FAMILY, YOUR NEIGHBOURS, YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER, YOUR COUNTRY!

Stand up. Speak up. You have no idea how many people around you are silently suffering on an everyday basis, yet between their own fears and the fears that society has instilled, we don't say anything. So we assume "this is life," which it is, but it doesn't have to be a miserable one. It can go from ordinary to extraordinary.
But YOU have to do something about it first.
These organizations are the front runners of today's mental health care and without them...I don't even know.
You know what to do. 

https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/FundraisingPage.aspx?registrationID=3280454&langPref=en-CA#&panel1-1

Monday, 21 March 2016

LIKE my page!

Hello fellow readers!

https://www.facebook.com/MUC.ColleenRennie/ (FACEBOOK PAGE FOR ALL TO LIKE!) 

For all my updates and Fundraising Information please hit the page link, and give it a good solid like- if you want to of course! I'll be so appreciative :)

EVENT TICKETS ARE ONLY $5.00

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-day-in-the-land-of-oz-tickets-23434056895

If you are unable to attend, but still want to be apart of the journey do not hesitate to make your donation at:

https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/startup.aspx?eventid=56491&langpref=en-CA


MEET THE BEAUTY QUEENS #K4W That will be joining us this Saturday! 

Saturday, 19 March 2016

"How did you get involved?"

I am commonly asked how or why I got involved with Miss Universe Canada, and it's a very valid question, as there are split seconds where I forget as well. Not because I don't want to be apart of it, but being human it's in my DNA to doubt myself. With that said, from the beginning of this competition I made a deliberate choice: if I'm going to go ahead with this I'm either giving it my all or forget it. 
So I had to consider somethings. 

The night before applications closed I thought "let's put some pictures in and just see what happens." 
Included in those photos were these 3 shots 
"Bikini"



And one in my glasses I can't find. But as you can see-none of them are "professional," but maybe they liked my smile. 

The day I found out I had a couple individuals message me and to quote one message "this is a huge commitment, are you sure ," which I need to be reminded of again. I am in school doing my placement, but whatever let's just try it! 

Best decision I've ever made. 
As my director said the other day "I know things are crazy right now, but when it's all over you're going to miss it. Soak it up." 

And he's right. In a matter of a few months I've met so many intelligent and kind people, both women and men. My confidence in myself and who I am and what I can do is way up, I can't believe who I am this year contrary to last year. Hey! I was there for a reason I'm not mad at myself, I needed that time. It's ultimately how I came to be a CYC OR CYW whatever you want to call it. 

Anyways! The next morning Sonny called me to tell me he received my shots from head office and would I be interested in a phone interview- I am at school freaking out alone- so I said yes. 

Later that week we had our interview. 
"Why miss universe?" 
"If you won what would you want to tell the world or teach the world about Canada?" (ABOUT CANADA- the First Nations and indigenous populations that date back to Emily Carr and her days in B.C. and our Mental Health Care DUH!) 
"What Ontario social issues do you care about?" (Something along those lines-this is where in my head I thought "how much time do we have? I've got a couple..." ) 

Anyways, the pageant in April will be part interview, part bikini catwalk (better believe it), and the night gown. And the same in June, but that's nationals. 

I have to raise $1200 for my expenses and then I've chosen to tackle $5000 for the Canadian Mental Health Association because it's incredibly dear to my heart, but more importantly I believe I can. We only limit ourselves right? 

I have a fashion show April 8th. I've had a photo shoot thus far and met the current Miss Universe, Miss Phillipines. 

As I say to most people I talk to, if I got a phone call today saying they couldn't take me on or something- id still be so proud of how far I've come because it's built me up in so many ways. 

Even my health and fitness has never been so strong and I'm loving it. It makes me feel so great! 

Now if you're wondering "k but why miss universe?" Because it's a public platform where I can use my voice for myself and so many others who warrior on day after day, struggling with mental health, substance abuse, grief, school, students/kids. I want to demonstrate that YOU CAN DO ANYTHING YOU SET YOUR MIND TO. 

I met with a dear friend for coffee yesterday, as once upon a time he was my mentor at Wine Rack and I consider him to be a strong father figure in my life. This man, on night one of us working together, opened up his whole life story to me and vice versa- it was deep- but we have since not lost touch and make it a point to check in and say hi every once in a while because we both understand how dark the brain can get. We talked about the fact that so many still don't understand the thinking behind suicide and to be honest there is thinking, and one form is simply "I don't want to be here anymore and the world is better off." Or my "favourite" it's selfish. Ay yay yay. 

It's not, but it's also not the only choice, as him and I- we need each other. We need that person who can level with us on that low of a level. In other words, we need you, your sisters, your brother ax your uncles, your aunts, your mothers, brothers and fathers! We need the wounded healers. 

He told me a story about this customer who comes in and commonly makes remarks about "why me? This stuff always happens to me. When is anything good going to happen?" To my surprise my friend threw me out there as an exemplar in that I made a decision to turn my life around and I've stuck to it. I've worked incredibly hard to become a stronger, healthier, more confident and independent woman. But the reason more so that he "used me" was to say "And now she's going for Miss Universe."

According to J, my friend, she responded with "how does a girl like that have similar problems to me?" And for the first time in my life I heard, what I thought was my own thought, my own voice- but used in reference to me rather than against me. 

Come on. Majority of us have, at one point in our life, played the "why me?" But we have choices. Every choice you choose is yours to own. 

There's intention and then there's motivation. I have the intention to try my best using my best motivation. The difference between the two? Deliberateness. I deliberately trying from the moment I wake up till my eyes close at night. 

I hope this answers some questions or interests your random findings on the Internet. 

I'm so grateful to be sober. The clarity and grace is forever worth it.

Damn is it worth it. 

Have a Happy Saturday! 
xo
Dorothy Colleen 




Friday, 18 March 2016

March, 26, 2016.

IM BACK!!! HELLO AGAIN, FRIENDS! 


March 26th, 2013 is a date I will never forget. It is a date that, no matter where I go, what I do, who I meet, will be apart of me. However, it no longer owns me.
THIS YEAR on March 26th. 2016, I will be hosting a fundraiser for the Canadian Mental Health Association, a cause that is very, very dear to my heart and the lives of so many of us, here in Canada. 

I am hoping to fill your hearts and metaphorical cups with inspiration, influential thought, from bold thinkers who are graciously taking time out of their busy schedules to drive to Waterloo and speak for us. 

I have had the pleasure of working amongst some of Canada's top entrepreneurs and international businesses, mutual fund owners, and I started a couple businesses of my own, which was the best choice I ever made in the steps of my own path and in dealing with mental health issues. Why? Because it forced me to step out of my comfort zone, but at my own pace. Pacing is key. 

I am honoured to have two speakers who, n
ot only run their own businesses on their clock, with NON STOP SMILING AND LAUGHING, or their way, but similar to us face issues or have battled with mental health or the destructive thinking. I cannot begin to express my gratitude to these two, they are incredible.

TOO, Paulie Obyrne will be graciously sharing his journey and story with us all! It's going to be quite the day 

(I may be having one more male speaker with an incredible story I am sure we can all identify with...stay tuned...) 

DO NOT miss out on your chance to hear some truly amazing wisdom of women and men who continue to pursue their dreams and passion no matter what trial or adversity is thrown their way. 


MORE IMPORTANTLY! LETS RAISE SOME MONEY AND AWARENESS, MOTIVATION OR A CAUSE THAT AFFECTS EACH AND EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US: MENTAL HEALTH/ILLNESS, SUICIDE PREVENTION, YOUTH ADVOCACY, WELLNESS, 
IT'S GOING DOWN!

March 26. 2016 

Get your tickets! $5.00 
2 inspirational speakers
Glam
Food
Friends
Uniqueness celebrated 

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/a-day-in-the-land-of-oz-tickets-23434056895


Saturday, 12 March 2016

Canadian Mental Health Association - Please DONATE!

I am crazy, passionate about my career and working with vulnerable youth and their families. It was the CMHA that allowed me to use my knowledge, skills and experience with mental health to see how big a difference I could make in 1 kids life seeing him 1 hour a week for an entire school year. Not only did I lift his confidence and spirits, but I lifted my own. I regained a sense of purpose back and ever since have been looking for a way to pay it back to your organization, with the exception of just volunteering. Not knowing what that would look like, I applied to Miss Universe Canada thinking little of it, or that it was a far fetched dream, but it has become a reality and I cannot wait to use my voice for groups of people and communities that, similar to myself, felt like they had no voice. But they do. WE ALL DO and we NEED YOU. Turning my life around and becoming a mental health advocate has been incredibly rewarding. I could eat, sleep and breathe it. Odd? Maybe! But that's me!


 I was diagnosed in 2009 with depression, anxiety and a learning disability (no surprise there), but a a result I followed a path that I hoped would make me appear to be "the same as every one else," but the reality was, and still is, I am not the same as everyone else. My life was a constant battle of me comparing my intelligence to others only to realize, I had different interests! I am unique and I wouldn't want it any other way. Authentically me is the best version of myself possible, and rather than trying to pretend to survive, I'm living. But that wouldn't be possible if I didn't have organizations such as yours or Miss Universe Canada reminding me that given my differences, I CAN make social change. By sharing our experiences, our stories we allow others to feel that sense of normalcy, but more importantly hope. I want to spread hope to all, I want today's youth- young boys and girls, women and men- that mental health does not make us any less worthy and that it needs to be taken seriously. I want to demonstrate hope to these youth and show them that, though people may question you or say you're incapable of doing something, you can and you will.   And while that may sound like fairytale, so was getting accepted to Miss Universe Canada.

So please, if you can spare a one dollar or more, please donate to my page

To join me at my event and lend your support, please click on the link below.

https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/startup.aspx?eventid=56491&langpref=en-CA

If you can’t join me, you can still help by sponsoring my participation. To sponsor me by making a secure donation online, click the link above and search for me.

Yours,
Dorothy

https://secure.e2rm.com/registrant/FundraisingPage.aspx?registrationID=3280454&langPref=en-CA#&panel1-1

Bio

http://missuniversecanada.ca/2016-national-finalists/western-ontario-regional-finalists-2016/colleen-rennie/

I went back and forth on whether or not to use Beamsville, but I chose it! It's my home town now and I'm proud.

I wrote this by myself. I am a lover of writing so you may notice that it's not perfect, but I love it. I love every bit of this journey thus far and I stand true to this part as well

Age: 24
Hometown: Beamsville, ON
Colleen Rennie is from Beamsville, Ontario, where her mother, father, and 2 older brothers live, but resides in Waterloo, Ontario. Colleen recently graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with an undergrad in History and has chosen to go back to school to further pursue her passion and hopeful career in the field of mental health and education, specifically aimed towards the care and counselling of children, youth and their families. Colleen is a self-advocate for both her local communities and peers through public forum platforms and through social media advocacy. In November of 2015 Colleen was honoured the opportunity to be the Keynote Speaker for the 69th Annual Special Education Conference, for the Council of Exceptional Children where she spoke of her journey; where she has been with mental illness and a learning disability and her wellbeing now.
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.”
― Maya Angelou
Colleen is dedicated to not only speaking up in change in Canadian mental health, education and our youth, but to see that change is being made, no matter how big or small. Colleen is very passionate about her service efforts, especially in high risk, vulnerable areas such as suicide prevention.
Being an active volunteer and member of organizations such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, Canadian Addiction and Mental Health, Big Brother Big Sister, United Way Oxford County and the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care Counsellors Colleen believes that learning is a ongoing journey that and that it does not just happen in a classroom, there is literally something new to learn every day, as she claims, “that’s what keeps life so exhilarating, is that each day can be seen as new beginning, there is always something to be grateful for, especially the lesson that every failure can be used as an accessed opportunity for growth, versus defeat. ”
Colleen lives and breathes enthusiasm. She loves to play soccer, swim and go running, especially with her dogs while at home, outside, through the vines of her vineyard. She can be described as “humble, understanding, compassionate, and influential.”
One of her biggest encouragements to individuals of all ages is to be authentically themselves, as Colleen believes that without the authenticity of self, we lose the power of our voice and purpose. Moreover, in Canada we have choice and the liberty of freedom, but with that comes a responsibility to be a contributing member of society one way or another. Every influential leader and thinker in this world had the same amount of days and hours as we have today, but its how we choose to use those hours that define how big or small our impact can be in this world.
“Take more risks than required,” like taking a spontaneous chance such as applying to the Miss Universe Canada pageant in the hopes of having an opportunity to use one’s voice for continuous efforts in mental health and effect change on a national scale. Nothing changes, if nothing changes, and Colleen believes she can be that change.

Tuesday, 8 March 2016

Life of Dorothy

Yesterday I went to my boys first basketball game/games- it's nothing like I remember. They play 3 separate games and ladies and gentlemen, my team kicked absolute butt out there! We won every game, but that's not the point. The smiles on these boys faces, their pride, when they shoot the ball in the basket and run off the court, though they're thanking mom and dad, it feels like an NBA audience. 

And that's why I'm there. To remind them you're playing with heart, you're trying your best I don't want to hear "I'm playing a bad game, there's no such thing so long as both of those 2 key parts are happening on that court" 




Sunday, 6 March 2016

The Adventure

"My dearest friend, even if your hope has burned with time, anything that's dead shall be re-grown and your vicious pain, your warning sign, you will be fine. 

Hello, here I am. Here we go, life's waiting to begin.

I can't live, I can't breathe unless you do this with me. I can't live I can't breathe unless you do this with me..." 


Holy Sh!t what a day. Excuse me for swearing. I walked into a meeting this morning, as I generally do most Sunday's but today I felt anxious and I couldn't figure out why. I was gone for my pageant so it's not like I was hiding anything...(this will make sense eventually, Colleen, duh!) 

As I walk inside I'm greeted by four of the friendliest gentlemen I've had the pleasure of knowing. Humourous as heck too! -my one British pal, he's gotta be easily 20-30 years older than I and I told him I was in the Miss Universe Canada pageant and he goes "you better have brains cause you certainly don't have beauty..." I died.

Anyways, a new couple whom I've never seen before walks in. So I take my stuff and put it at "my seat" and I see the woman of this couple standing alone, so naturally I go introduce myself: "hi I'm Colleen! Nice to meet you." 

"Hi, I'm Dorothy." 


....i have no idea what I said after as I stared blankly thinking of ALLLLLL the names you could have you're telling me it's Dorothy?! Like my nanas name? The reason I come to these meetings was because the first woman I met here was named Dorothy. 

THEN a good friend of mine speaks and I'm looking at the date and it hits me: 3 years ago on this day my life flipped! It went from living to I HAVE NO IDEA. I found out I was pregnant. 

It's fair to say this day haunted me in previous years but I worked really hard to try and work through the pain, hurt, unstoppable feelings of abandonment. 

None of those exist today. Or at least not nearly to the same degree as they did! ITS A MIRACLE! 

This lyrics above reminded me of when I sing them in regards to someone else but it hit me today: I was singing them to myself. This is my adventure and I'm fine. 

I'm just fantastic, actually! 
I'm living my dream, I'm competing in a national pageant for the youth, I feel like I'm in the best shape of my life, still not drinking and damn ok with it! 

Thank you everyone for being there. 
Love, 
Colleen 

Saturday, 5 March 2016

I'm Tired Of..

I'm tired of being depressed. I'm tired of all the little things that amount to big things that make me want to curl up in a ball and pretend I don't exist.

I'm tired of my anxiety creeping up on me and trying to resolve through physiological pain all throughout my body.

I'm tired of any one thing having the capacity to turn my whole day from good to bad. In other words, letting others control how I feel.

I'm tired of feeling guilty all the time. Even for the smallest things, like not being able to go see my mom because I've had to drive everywhere but to see her.

I'm tired of being frustrated with myself. It's an endless battle of "why didn't you just do this" or "how the hell did you forget?" because my mind is tired. I haven't seen my psychiatrist in 5 months. I haven't spoken to my therapist over the phone in 2 weeks because her computer is dead while she is away for months and months.

I'm tired of feeling "weak," like I did the other day and had to make my mother drive up here so I could try and make a doctors appointment. It takes a chunk out of my self confidence to simply exist in this world.

I'm tired of pretending I'm ok all the time, because I'm not. I'm in a much better place than I once was but I also feel like I'm letting things, people, slip through my fingers and one day I'm going to regret it.

I'm tired of feeling like "a victim," when I have been the one who drives myself to every doctors appointment, has been in control of my meds since I was prescribed them in 2009-- and that's a battle in itself when I have to go to the hospital just to get a piece of paper that they pull me aside for, after waiting 7 hours-- not even into a room because it's unnecessary. I wake up every day to try and maintain my mental health and somedays are harder than others, but thats still difficult for people to understand.

I'm tired of people mistaking my kindness for weakness. I will always be kind, but I don't tolerate any form of disrespect unless warranted (hopefully it's not)

I'm tired of some individuals closest to me not understanding the numerous places I've exhausted myself then looking at me like it's "my fault" or "i chose this" ....I had to because this is my life and no one is going to live it for me.

I'm tired of my stomach hurting because of my medication and people looking at me like I'm crazy for taking ginger gravol.

I'm tired of fighting for someone to love me the way I want to be loved because it's close to impossible. You might love me, but no one has ever loved me enough to demonstrate they want to be a still in my life. Someone who, like myself, is willing to work within the ebs and flows of life and not have it be accounted for day after day, last minute after last minute...I live one day at a time.

I'm tired of people not understanding that when I lost my dog, I felt like I lost a part of me because of all the craziness I have in my life, those 4 dogs have remained a constant, ESPECIALLY in the last few years. And that I miss him every day. I'm still heartbroken and it only reminded me of one other heartbreaking loss in my life...

I'm tired of feeling silly for messaging people from my past, because their my past and "treated me poorly," get over it! I have.  Everyone who comes into my life has meaning one way or another and I like to forgive. They've all taught me valuable lessons.

I'm tired of people telling me I'm "taking on more than I can handle," worry about whats on your plate, because everything on mine is something I WANT TO ACCOMPLISH. FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE I HAVE THE FAITH THAT I CAN, SO LET ME TRY! If I fail, I fail. That's my lesson.

I'm tired of being the sister to two brothers who barely speak to me, I think the absolute world of them and I love talking about them, but I never hear from them. Sometimes Evan makes contact with me, but thats about it. (Sorry Garrett, it's the truth!)

I'm tired of knowing I let this all go on and to each point I can say "well, why don't we change that?" and laughing because I am working on so many things and trying to change but I'm not super woman.

On the contrary, I'm really glad I got this out. I'm glad I am not afraid or tired of advocating how I feel to try and bring a sense or normalcy or relativity to anyone experiencing what I do, but can't find the words or the people to say it to...but also that is calms my mind down...

I'm also glad that I REFUSE to give up on myself anymore despite how tired I might be... Just keep swimming.








"But What if I fall?"
"Oh my darling, but what if you fly?"

Dorothy
xo



Thursday, 3 March 2016

Horoscopes & My Pageant


There are many days where I look to my horoscope readings for signs or clues of what my day may look like, or be extra aware and their usually dead on: 


"A sense of calm originates from some deep place within you today. You're focused on a goal. You know instinctively that you can reach it by using your energy in careful, measured steps. This isn't about fighting for what you want, or reaching it through a leap of faith. It's about being practical and staying grounded as you work toward a measurable outcome. You can do this, and you know that with your entire being."

I am in a place where there are decisions that need to be made, but for the bettering of me. For my personal growth. But like everything there are obstacles in the way, however, I am choosing not to let them get in my way like I have in previous years. This 2016 is for me. I have never felt so accomplished both academically and practically (as I am doing my placement, my feedback was amazing) 

Staying true to yourself is half the battle....and I have a goal I am trying to reach beyond my academics...



But know your worth. Believe in it. "Speak softly, but carry a big stick" - Christine Rennie 

on another note: I WOULD LIKE TO INVITE YOU TO 
# 1) I would kindly ask you support me on this journey by  pressing "LIKE" on my Facebook Pag and you get to keep updated with my posting about recent events, pictures, and my journey to the Crown: www.facebook.com/MUC.ColleenRennie

#2) In order for me to achieve this incredible opportunity of becoming the next Miss Universe Canada 2016, I am in need of sponsorship to help with my entry fees for the competition. You can probably imagine, the hard work, dedication that is required and financial capabilities. The total cost including travel, accommodation, expenses, wardrobe and entry fees is $1,200.00, and I would be honoured to have you as one of my sponsors for the 2016 year. All monetary donations are eligible for a tax receipt. As well, in return for your graciousness as one of my top ten sponsors, your business will be displayed under my name in the pageant program book. I would include your business in all media coverage I get from now until the pageant, and as well as promote your name/logo on all of my social media accounts and blog.

If you would prefer to make an offline donation, please contact me and I can provide you with the address to mail the cheque or money order too. I am excited about this journey and I hope to include you on the path to my dream. This is an amazing opportunity for you to gain regional and national awareness for your business. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask me. Thank you for your consideration of helping me, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. 

# 3)  Join Heidi Fuentes and I March 4-6, 2016 at Stone Road Mall in Guelph. The Guelph Fire Fighters will be braving the cold and camping on the mall’s roof to raise awareness and money for Muscular Dystrophy!
Opening ceremonies will be on March 4th at 11:00 am. There will be refreshments, notable guest speakers, swag giveaways and media coverage.
The rooftop Fire Fighters will be outside entrance two near BMO and there will also be more representatives in centre court all weekend long!
MOST IMPORTANTLY !!!! Sparky the Fire Dog will be visiting throughout the weekend as well, so come say Hi!
Do not miss this unforgettable weekend at Stone Road Mall! Stay True!‪#‎RoofTopCampout‬ @stoneroadmall ‪#‎StayTrue‬ @MuscularDystrophyCanada @MuscularDystrophyCanadaOntario