We spent a fun filled weekend with 13 of our Nanny Angel volunteers at Loon Lake, where our founder Audrey Guth hosted a Volunteer Appreciation event. Angel volunteers attending had all demonstrated a high level of commitment to Nanny Angel Network and it was a wonderful opportunity for us to show how proud we are of what our Angels are accomplishing.

We arrived on Friday night and started off the weekend. Our volunteers had plenty of opportunity to bond with each other. We had the most amazing weather all weekend and enjoyed every minute of it by spending time outside on the lake, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboating, swimming, or just lying on the dock . A few of our adventurous Nanny Angels even tried water skiing!

On Saturday night we held a bonfire after dinner and roasted marshmallows. We shared some quotes of thanks from the families our volunteers had helped so they could hear about the impact they were making on our Angel mom’s lives.

We wrapped up the day on Sunday by taking group pictures on the dock. You can see more on Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/nannyangelnetwork/.

Thank you to all the Nanny Angel volunteers who attended!

A powerful testimonial by one of our Nanny Angels…

I went to visit the mom at her home. She told me she’s on the 3rd stage of cancer already. It struck my heart. I felt that she was very weak. It’s really hard for them as cancer patients having babies or toddlers. And I deeply appreciate the Networks aim of helping these people. I felt so empathetic to her because of what stage she is in. I remember when my father died. We waited for his death like very helpless human beings. My father died of cancer too that’s why I felt heart-broken every time I see these patients in great pain. Our day ended with teary eyes. I would like extend her appreciation to all the Angels. She said she’s very proud to all of us. We’ve been saluted all the time and that gave me more courage to volunteer. Deep inside me I’m weak, honestly, but my desire to help is pushing me over. Have a great week Michelle and I know you’re giving your best too. Marie

I was looking for encouragement of my own motherhood, I am a mother of 5 children. Though my love for them is unconditional, at times it is a challenge to react in a loving way especially with preteens. This week felt like a battle.

So I looked up inspiration for mothers and this link came to me. I want to share it with all moms but especially the moms in the Nanny Angel Network. During the challenge of battling breast cancer it may at times be hard to react lovingly so please read some of the insight about motherhood shared here.

The greatest message I took away from this link is that I am the perfect mother for my children!

All the best today

Just the thought of all the work that raising my children requires
of me regularly, exhausts me and that is just the thought!

I am amazed at the matter-of-fact attitude that society has
about having cancer in this case breast cancer. A woman may
have surgery today or chemotherapy and be home tomorrow to
resume with life???
How?
Something has to take priority. Is it healing or the children.
As I write this I feel enraged at having
to make this choice. I feel enraged that the children would
turn to me to help them but who else will they turn to?

I have spoken to women with breast cancer in that same matter
of fact tone. Not because cancer is just so commonplace but
because I want to be a logical part of the solution not the problem.
The impact of even 5 hours of relief child care allows the brain
to rest from just the thought and survival might be a reality!

The nannies that you provided to us were absolutely wonderful.
They showed up and made fast friends with the children. Took them to the park, did arts and crafts (which my daughter LOVES to do) and played games with them. It took the kids minds off of what was going on at home for a few hours and gave them the attention they were missing and craving. It also allowed me to ‘catch up’ on home duties that were neglected (laundry, home cooked meals, cleaning, etc).

We thank you and the wonderful nannies who selflessly donated their time from the bottom of our hearts.”

- A

“I am currently undergoing treatment for Breast Cancer that was diagnosed this past February. I went through chemotherapy and a had a double mastectomy. I expect to start radiation treatment in October for 5 weeks. I have returned to work, I am honestly exhausted and when I heard your advertisement on 680 driving home one evening it felt like my prayers for a break had been answered.

When the coordinator confirmed that a Nanny was coming to my home on Sunday I started crying. I thought about all the things my husband and I could do in 5 hours! We went out on a date and just enjoyed each others company like old times something we had not done in so long.

When the Nanny came I felt completely comfortable with her. My children took to her immediately and we are blessed because of the service.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

- S

www.nannyangelnetwork.com

Nanny Angels have, through our specialized Nanny Angel Training Program, developed the skills needed to work sensitively and compassionately with the kids of a Mom with Breast Cancer. Nanny Angels are screened by our coordinator, have first aid training and go to each Nanny Angel Assignment with their own Nanny Angel Activity Bag full of the tools of the Nanny Trade.

The Nanny Angel Network works with oncologists, nurse navigators and self identified patients to connect with families who will benefit from this program. In order to participate in the program, a mother must currently be in treatment for breast cancer or in the early stages of recovery and her children must be under the age of 12.

As part of its mandate, The Network has undertaken to promote Breast Health Awareness among our community of Nanny Angels – many of whom come from cultures that shy away from proactive breast examination. The Network is also working to help the Nanny Profession attain greater respect in our communities for the very important work they do every day with our families and our children.
www.nannyangelnetwork.com