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The Sunday Series (104), with Mark Brodinsky

April 17, 2016 By markbrodinsky Leave a Comment

It doesn’t always have to be someone. It can also be some “thing”.  Especially when the thing is like a living, breathing entity – giving shelter, warmth, hope and healing.

If everyone has a story – and they do – so can a “thing” where stories are written and shared every day.

I am Mark Brodinsky and this is The Sunday Series.


The Sunday Series (104): A New Home For Hope

Put one foot in front of the other,
And soon you’ll be walkin’ cross the floor.
Put one foot in front of the other,
And soon you’ll be walkin’ out the door.
– Lyrics from One Foot in Front of the Other: Santa Claus is Coming to Town

That’s exactly what we did. Thousands gathered to put their feet on the ground, (many in their red and white socks), and once again help The House That Love Built to reach for the stars.

Except this year was different. This year was even more special. This year before the first runner/walker passed the starting line there was an announcement: the House would soon have a new Home.

hope has a new address

More on the big announcement in a minute. First the walk – The Red Shoe Shuffle.

Red and white was the theme of the day. And why not, they are part of the colors of the House, the colors of Santa Claus, (a true giver to children), and the colors of the spirit of that big holiday – one which is focused on giving.

santa and girl

Sometimes pictures can speak a thousand words – here now just a few from this year’s Shuffle.

explosion IMG_9300 runner in shufflemore runners in shuffle IMG_9328 sandy and girls

Another amazing event. More gratitude then it’s possible to express. But the tireless advocate and President of the Ronald McDonald House, Sandy Pagnotti, said it best in her Facebook post just a few days ago:

$360k raised, 2,600 participants and 200 volunteers! Amazing, incredible and humbling! Today is the day I have the impossible task of trying to express the depth of gratitude I have for the volunteers and supporters of RMH & The Red Shoe Shuffle 2016.

What started out as an idea for a fundraiser a few years ago has evolved into a Celebration of Community and Love like no other in town. Shuffle Sunday is the happiest day of the year in Baltimore and we could not do it without your help.

Every small bit has added up to BIG impact for the children of RMH. That’s what community is…. everyone doing what they can, when they can, to carry each other through. I’m so proud of everyone involved and appreciate every dollar, every volunteer hour, every early morning alarm clock setting, every step shuffled, and every ounce of love and support shown to our kids and families.

Best job in the world… best people in my life… best hearts in town surrounding RMH. Thank You is not enough, but… thank you.

Thank you can never be enough. And it’s always all about the kids. Every parent who has a child would do anything in the world they could for the one they love. And any parent who sees, or even knows another child who is hurting, who needs healing and support – is ready to do what they can to try and bring joy to that child’s journey of suffering. The late Steve Jobs said we are all here to put a giant dent in the universe. When a child is suffering they too leave a dent, directly on our hearts.

It’s why we walk, it’s why we volunteer, it’s why we give, it’s why we love.

love in motion

Understand the mission of the House: each year thousands of children are treated in Baltimore hospitals for life-saving medical care. They come with their families from all over Maryland, the United States and even the world. Many of these families are blessed to find physical and emotional refuge through the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore. It has been proven, children heal faster when surrounded by their families.

But to expand the healing and the love there needs to be a change. Change is inevitable, growth is optional.

So here’s the low-down on what will be going up, as long as the funding is secured:

After extensive strategic planning, the Board of Directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore has determined an urgent and compelling need to build a new Ronald McDonald House to meet the growing demand. We have launched a capital campaign with an estimated need of $25 million that will build Our New House, ensuring Baltimore continues offering access to  not only the best pediatric care, but the most effective and compassionate family-centered care in the world.

The new Ronald McDonald House, which will be built at 1200 E. Baltimore Street, will reflect a commitment to incorporate best practices into all of our programs and services. Each amenity included in the design of the new house was carefully selected through input from staff, volunteers and families. The new House will serve approximately 55 families daily and 2,200 families annually through:

  • 9 two-bedroom suites specifically designed for oncology, bone marrow and transplant patients
  • 45 rooms that sleep up to 5 guests each and allow for larger families through adjoining rooms
  • Strategically designed gathering spaces that promote interaction among guests (family room, playroom, kitchen and full-size laundry room)
  • A Serenity Room for solitude, meditation and respite
  • A state-of-the-art Family Business Center and Classroom with computers, printers, and internet for parents who must continue work and to provide a normal classroom environment for students experiencing extended stays
  • A fully accessible outdoor playground with an adjacent picnic and dining area for outdoor meals and special events
  • The Teen Room – for older children, allowing them to have private time alone or with peers who are experiencing similar situations
  • A beautiful rooftop garden and large conference room with spectacular views of the city

In all transparency, I am a member of the Executive Board for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Baltimore. So from an inside-out view I can attest to the dedication, devotion and tireless efforts of those who have spear-headed the initial phase of contribution-gathering, or should I say simply asking. It is a wonder to behold and it’s because they never lose site of the mission to help and to serve for these children and for the vision of never having to turn away a family that needs the healing and hope from the House.

Give. Ask. Receive.

give ask receive

That’s what we are hoping for – more donations. Nearly $18 million of the $25 million needed has already been pledged. It’s the most expansive undertaking this local Ronald McDonald House has ever experienced and there can be no turning back. Because you can never turn your back on children in need. Our present. Our future. Our hope.

Every child deserves a chance and every family of that child deserves the best and the most we can give.

It’s as simple as putting one foot in front of the other.

Walk the walk. (Step).
Talk the talk. (Step)
Be bold enough to ask for help to to make tomorrow better than today for the children. (Step)

Working to bring Baltimore a new Home for Hope (Finish Line)

hope has a new address 2

Until next time thanks for taking the time,

Mark
(markbrodinsky@gmail.com)

(https://secure3.4agoodcause.com/rmh-baltimore/gift-new.aspx?id=1)

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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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