The Crankiness Crusher™

I’m excited and delighted to attend tonight’s 10th anniversary celebration of  the Young Survival Coalition’s (Northern NJ Affiliate) “In Living Pink” event. The YSC is a global organization dedicated to helping young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer by offering resources, connections and outreach so women feel supported, empowered and hopeful.  My good friend Dina is being honored for her volunteer efforts and dedication, and I couldn’t be more proud of her!

Dina began volunteering a decade ago when her friend Lisa Marie founded the YSC’s North Jersey Networking Group. The YSC had become an invaluable resource for her when she was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer at the age of 27, so she wanted to help others through this difficult and emotional time. After Lisa lost her battle at age 33, Dina then served as President of the YSC NNJ Affiliate. Her 4 years of leadership not only raised awareness for the organization–but also close to a half million dollars! It’s no wonder that she was elected to the National Board of Directors and acts as their Secretary today.

Dina’s commitment to the YSC is an inspiration to me–and today’s crankiness crusher.  She empowers those who are affected by breast cancer while fighting in memory of those who have lost their battle. Dina will say that she’s a better person for having known and learned from these individuals. I say that I’m a better person for knowing Dina.

How can this story help crush your crankiness? Try doing something for yourself that will also benefit others. Be an advocate for something you believe in. You’ll enrich your life and your soul while truly inspiring those around you. When you put your heart into something that matters, you’ll find the happiness that lives inside it.

“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.”

~ William James