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The Sunday Series (105), with Mark Brodinsky

April 24, 2016 By markbrodinsky Leave a Comment

Could you ever really give or share enough love? Doubtful.

When it comes to the life you’ve been given and all that you can give back – why not shoot for the moon? Why not love to the moon and back? What’s the downside?  There is none.

Even if there comes a time when it ends – at least in an earthly sense – you don’t cry because it’s over, you smile because it happened.  And recall a story you can share for all time.

Everyone has a story.

I am Mark Brodinsky and this is The Sunday Series.


The Sunday Series (105): Finding Cinderella

I’ve been many places.
Maybe not as far as you.
So I think I’ll stay awhile,
and see if some dreams come true.
– lyrics from Life is Like the Seasons, by Frank Sinatra

denise a lot of hair

What better place to dream some big dreams then going to Disneyland?  When Rick Swiatek first met Denise Rothwell that’s exactly what she told him she wanted to do. It had been so long since she had seen the place where dreams come true – Denise said she could barely recall her trip there as a child. She wanted to go back. So when Rick and Denise first met up in Los Angeles, after talking for about a month in a chat room on AOL, (circa 1999), the two paid a visit to Disneyland.

Besides Denise was in love with Cinderella and she was looking for a Prince Charming. After coming out of a tough marriage Denise was looking for someone to treat her right – she knew she had much to give – Denise was a giver at heart and she yearned for romance. Rick says the couple both loved the movie Titanic, which was out in theaters around the time they met, and Denise had told him what really captured her heart about the movie was the romance. “So I tried to be the romantic”, says Rick. “At one point Denise told me I was the most romantic person she ever knew.”

updated rick and denise

It was saying a lot because Rick Swiatek was still finding and learning to love himself, figuring out “what he wanted to be when he grew up.” The son of first generation Polish descendants who came over to this country after World War II, Rick had been caught up in his parents desires for him to be a doctor, or an engineer. He was extremely analytical, and finished in the top ten in his high school class – realizing science and math where his strong points. He went to Purdue in an honors program, but he rarely studied. Instead he liked to spend most of his time with one of the most analytical games ever created – chess. He ended up majoring in microbiology and computer science.

“It was a degree in a field where there were no set jobs”, says Rick. “I got work in hospitals as a clinical chemist, and toxicologist.  But working in a lab wasn’t some place where you made a lot of money. It was rewarding helping people, but like anything else in the medical field, it was the doctors who were making all the money. So after a few years I decided I would try to do something on my own.”

Working with someone he met during his time in the medical field, Rick partnered up and opened a video store as a side business, eventually buying out his partner and building a chain of superstores. But his venture into the world of retail came with a price – his girlfriend at the time whom he thought would help him, didn’t want any part of it, and though there was talk of marriage and a house purchased to live in – the relationship fell through. Eventually when the crash of Black Friday happened in the stock market and Blockbuster started taking over the video world, Rick’s foray into retail fell through as well, he downsized, sold some stores and looked for what he was going to do next.

Life is like the seasons,
after winter comes the spring.
So I’ll keep this smile awhile
and see what tomorrow brings.

For Rick tomorrow meant finishing up his MBA – successfully completing a course in international marketing and found business doing consulting and planning work in Chicago. He he took a job with a small company which taught him all about selling — he became the closer – a trait which would propel him to amazing success in his future endeavours – but for now his success brought him to Utah.

utah

And one step closer to Cinderella.

Rick loved to ski and Utah was like a utopia, it gave this analytical mind the deep appreciation of the world around him, the majesty of the mountains, the openness of the canyons, the beauty of blue skies and nature at its finest. Rick lived there for a year but came back home to Illinois at the request of his mother because his dad was battling prostate cancer.  He went back to school for a bit as he learned about the IT field; the worldwide web was just starting to catch on. The same worldwide web which would change his life by leading him to Denise.

denise smiling

It was the time spent chatting on AOL that led the two to meet up and vacation on the West Coast, visit Disneyland, as well as many other places to come, and begin a life together. Rick convinced Denise to moved up from Texas and get a house with him in Aurora, Illinois. Rick wanted this spark in his life to be close by. He says, “Denise was this bright ray of sunshine in my life. Always positive, always up, always driven. She was always helping, always doing charity work. She would stay up at night and bake cupcakes and cookies for other people. She worked with the blind and people with disabilities. She had this charisma, she loved to be the center of attention. It was fun to be around her.”

denise bozo nose

The couple also started to travel. Rick got the opportunity to go to Europe for a project he was working on and Denise went with him. The two got to visit Belgium, France and Germany. It was in Germany that they came upon a castle. “I told her I would get her her own castle”, says Rick.

In 2003, Rick began a career as a sales agent with a company called UGA, offering health insurance and supplements to the self-employed and he enjoyed quick success. In less than a year he had earned his first rewards trip and told Denise they were going, but the thought of traveling on a trip with a bunch of sales agents didn’t thrill her. But Rick convinced Denise to go and they never looked back. The two never missed another trip. Rick says once Denise saw the culture of the company she was all-in. The home office staff loved her and some of her closest friends became those she met on that trip and throughout the years. Rick said he and Denise both loved the fact that the company actually appreciated and rewarded his efforts. And because of his hard work and success at UGA, he earned enough money to buy Cinderella her dream – a second beautiful home down in Austin Texas – the castle she always wanted.

For the most part Rick and Denise were living the dream, the same one which began on a trip to Disneyland years before. In fact Rick says Denise loved Disney so much she turned their Illinois home into a mini Disney museum.

denise and minie

But even Cinderella had her struggles and in March of 2013, the clock struck midnight. Denise was diagnosed with Stage-4 ovarian cancer. For the next three years she bravely battled the beast, spending much of her time in her “castle” in Texas because she didn’t want Rick to see her sick, and so he could continue to focus on his work.

Just a few years before, after a change with UGA, Rick had re-joined the same leadership team in a new endeavor with USHEATLH Advisors. The same concept, same culture, same friends. When the live-action version movie of the story of Cinderella was released in March of last year, some of the home office staff came to visit with Denise and throw a Cinderella party in her honor.

cinderella party

Despite her illness,  Denise refused to miss any of the USHEALTH reward trips with Rick. Rick says she loved the trips so much there was no way she wouldn’t go.  Even while on hospice in June of last year, and being told there was no way she should leave the country, she made the rewards trip to Cabo San Lucas to join her “family” at USHEALTH Advisors.

Unfortunately for Cinderella, and all who loved her, it would be her last time at the ball.

Coming back home Denise was getting worse and worried about missing her son Jeremy’s wedding. She wanted to see her young Prince Charming, her only son, take his own bride. But it was not to be. With three months to go before Jeremy’s wedding and just one week before her 57th birthday, Denise passed away.

wedding chapel denise and jeremy

There isn’t much that I have learned,
through all my foolish years,
Except that life keeps runnin’ in cycles
First there’s laughter, then those tears.

Rick says his USHEALTH Advisors family has been a tremendous support group – and because he loves what he does so much he has been able to pour himself into his work, as a distraction to missing his Cinderella. In fact, at the time of this post, Rick Swiatek is far and away the number one sales agent in the company, building on the company’s mission of HOPE, Helping Other People Everyday and remembering the love and hope that Denise brought into his life to inspire him in his work.

denise goodbye rick christi and denise

“Denise was just a beautiful, generous, positive living soul. The most positive person I ever met”, says Rick. “She taught me that family and friends count more than anything and sharing the positivity with the people around you is the one thing you can do to make your life better for yourself and everyone around you. Regardless of what life brings you, stay positive and people will love you for that.”

I’ve been told and I believe
That life is meant for livin’
And even when my chips are low
There’s still some left for givin’

Until next time, thanks for taking the time,

Mark

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Author: The #1 Amazon Best Seller: It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
(http://www.amazon.com/Mark-Brodinsky/e/B00FI6R3U6)

Huffington Post: (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-brodinsky/)

The Profile: (http://www.talkinggood.com/profiles/MarkBrodinsky)

The Podcast: (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/sunday-series-courage-inspiration/id1028611459)

USHEALTH Advisors: (http://www.prweb.com/releases/markbrodinsky/072015/prweb12862708.htm)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Mark Brodinsky
Emmy Award Winner, 1996

Ever thought about writing a book? check this out!

Blog Reviews

Love seeing new blogs hit the ground running like this one (by a dad no less), but I also urge anyone vaguely interested in blogging to stay tuned, I am. Good luck on your journey – glad that I am along for the ride.

Rachel Blaufeld

Great blog Mark! I always appreciate reading what you have to say. You are very gifted and talented and hopefully someday you’ll not just blog, but write a book.

 Stephen Koncurat

I’m definitely along for the ride. We’ve all seen how much damage the written word can inflict. More positive writers are needed. And I love how you are using your personal experiences – those with your wife and children – and your gift of writing to open eyes and to inspire others.

Victoria Endicott

Absolutely beautifully written! The girls in your life must be very proud of you. Thanks for sharing Mark, I look forward to reading more!

Gina Glick Jolson

Very shortly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building users, due to it’s pleasant posts.

Leila Galloway

Absolutely beautiful! Are you at all thinking of penning a book? You’ve got a fan base out there that really thinks you should Mark. You write so eloquently. Glad that I got onto this site.

Marilyn Lefkowitz

Mark, You are truly a gifted writer and obviously, a special father and husband . Always a delight to read your words.

I’m speechless…beautiful words flow from your heart just like a gentle waterfall into a tranquil stream… thank you so much for the friend request I was blessed the day I clicked confirm.

Lynne Turner Dorsey

From your first writing in 4th grade entitled “People” which was published in the school newspaper, you have always been able to write. Never more so than when you started “Caringbridge” and now your blog, everyone who reads says what a wonderful writer you are. Our DREAM for you is to become an author and encourage people every day. You are by the far the best and we hope and pray you reach your dream.

Bonnie Brodinsky

I know you always thank us for reading but I would like to say thanks for writing.

Stuart Abell

Great piece. You are an inspiration!

Rob Commodari

Mark I just wanted to let you know that you are succeeding in your “ultimate goal”. I have gained so much from your blogs. I look forward to reading them for the special lift that they give me. Thank you.

Amy F.

I love waking up and starting my day with my coffee and your blog! It a great way to start my day with positive uplifting thoughts!! It puts me in a positive frame of mind throughout the day and allows me to reflect on my personal life, make changes, and grow !!!

Gayle Blank

You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

Cynthia

I always look forward to your Blog Mark. Thanks for sharing and as you always do, make it a great / remarkable Day!

Chuck Connolly

Thanks for your Blog Mark. It is fun, encouraging and a nice break from a day full of ups and downs.

Jackie Hetrick

With my busy schedule, there is (sadly) little time for reading. But I have two must-reads every time I come across them, the sports section and your blogs. Keep inspiring and following your dream!

Ed Nemec

Mark, you are a truly remarkable individual. You do speak from your heart, I can’t wait to read your book. You are an incredible writer.

Debbie Press

Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
Would like to connect. This speaks to me.

Aileen Braverman

I can’t wait to read the book. I have followed all the blogs and feel so good that I know u guys. You make me cry but you make me laugh too. All the very best to you!

Beverlee Rendelman

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WOW!!! It Takes 2 is a must read for anyone who has known someone diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening disease. This is the real story of a family lead by an incredible woman, Debbie Brodinsky, who took radical steps to beat the breast cancer beast. The story is told by her husband, Mark Brodinsky, through journal entries he kept starting with diagnosis through one year cancer free. This author's unique ability to pour his heart out onto the page draws you in from the beginning and holds you until the very end.

Thanks to Mark and Debbie Brodinsky for this gift...I have a new perspective on what it means to be a breast cancer survivor. You are a hero, Debbie Brodinsky!

TeeBThree
September 25, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book gives a heartfelt, in depth description of what it is like to go through breast cancer with the one you love. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I was living it with them! I highly recommend this book!

Jgs17
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

In It Takes 2, Mark Brodinsky windows us into his world where his wife, the cancer patient, is not the only victim. Part journal, part roadmap, It Takes 2 goes to the real humanity of facing the mortality of one's better half. Mark's candid perspective, love, and fierce intention resonate with hope in a story which is about much more than cancer. Mark himself is perhaps the most heroic character for the way he appreciates this life and so many of us in it...as he says, "thanks for caring."

Réné Pallace
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

It Takes Two: A Spouse's Story by Mark Brodinsky should be read by every person who is experiencing serious illness or injury or by a loved one of someone who is experiencing either of those situations. The book is an eloquent testament to the power of love and the healing energy derived from the belief that things will get better. There is not one word of "poor me" from the author or his wife who suffered breast cancer and the radical surgery she elected to have to beat the cancer. Rather, the book is a celebration of the courage displayed by them both in seeing it through.

The book also encourages readers to speak and write down their true feelings and be validated in them. John Mackovic writing in the Palm Springs, CA Desert Sun on November 2, 2013 quoted author and artist Doe Zantamata who said, " To be happy, you don't have to do anything new. You just have to remember how to believe again...Believe everything good is possible. Believe in your dreams. Believe in people. Believe in love. But most of all...believe in yourself." The author, his wife, their family and extended family and friends never stopped believing in his wife's recovery, and I think, in themselves. Read this book and believe.

Paul A. Riecks
November 4, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read for anyone with a family member with breast cancer. It takes you through the spouse's perspective from diagnosis to recovery. Mark journaled his wife's journey and put all of his emotions out there. It is beautifully written and inspiring to anyone going through breast cancer. Thank you, Mark for sharing Debbie's story.

Jmu1109
October 23, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

A friend recommended this book. This was a great perspective of a man standing beside his partner and passing along to the reader fear, hope, useful information and a broader story than his own. I loved Vinnie the tattoo artist. This is a great book. Thanks for sharing, Mark and "thanks for caring"

Blahsan

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read. What sets this book apart from other books about surviving breast cancer is that it is told by the husband and his point of view, not from the survivor. At times sad, at times poignant but even through the worst of it you can always feel the love he has for his wife, her strength and the strength of their extended family and friends. The posts that are included from their friends and family lets you really into the heart and strength of the family. I would recommend this book to anyone who is currently going through this, whether you are the person or the caregiver. I also recommend this book to anyone who has a friend that has been or is currently going through their fight now. It was an eye opener for me.

L. Bogash
Seven Valleys, PA

ittakes2_reviews_2

There isn't a shortage of books about breast cancer, but most are written from the perspective of the person who has battled cancer or a physician or other expert. What an enlightening experience to read about breast cancer from a husband and caregiver's perspective! Not only does the author give us insight into his wife's experience and emotions, but he openly shares and reveals his love, compassion, support, and, yes, sometimes anger at the disease as he stands by his wife's side during their journey to beat the beast. Your story may not be the same, but I guarantee if you have a loved one battling cancer, you won't go wrong reading It Takes 2.

 PattiM
September 25, 2013

 

ittakes2_reviews_2

From the moment I opened this book I never stopped reading. Mark invites the reader to come along on this journey that his family went through. I cried, laughed and learned so much. This book will give comfort and knowledge to those going through similar situations. Most importantly, Mark and his family never give up. They get knocked down and get right back up. They fought cancer together and with their strength, determination and will to prevail... They do!

 Jenny Schloss 

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