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The Sunday Series (133), with Mark Brodinsky

December 25, 2016 By markbrodinsky Leave a Comment

It’s not finite, it’s infinite. There may be an end, but the journey will live on forever – your journey – especially if you are willing to share. People need to know you came this way, for when they do, they take a piece of you with them.

It’s your story, my story, our story which define our lives, and especially this time of year, stories interwoven through family get-togethers, friendly encounters and even the occasional stranger who is ready and willing to lend an ear.

After all, everyone has a story.

I am Mark Brodinsky and this is The Sunday Series.


The Sunday Series (133): Never Lose Sight

If anyone knows where Dave Cameron is, tell him he owes Jamie Blumberg 40-bucks! But also tell him thanks for the story, because it might have just changed Jamie’s life.

At 12-years-old and growing up on Long Island, why wouldn’t you take part in a rock fight outside school? I mean what else are early teens growing up in the 70’s to do? No phones, no internet, just physical activity. But for Jamie the rock fight led to some stone-cold reality, since he was the one who took the heat when suddenly things went south. “One of my friends threw a rock through a window at the school”, says Jamie. “We all took off, but one of the neighbors recognized me. When the phone rang at home, it was my mother telling me to get in here, the principal is on the phone. I took the rap for it, and didn’t rat on the kid who did it, even though I know his name to this day.”

Jamie (Blue sweater vest, second row)

Jamie (Blue sweater vest, second row)

It was Dave, but Jamie wasn’t giving him up. Instead Jamie gave up his summer because it was the $40 the window cost that affected his season and eventually set him on the right path. “My Dad was a construction worker, and he decided it was time for met to go to work with him to pay for the window”, says Jamie. “I worked the whole summer to pay for that window. But what I got to see first-hand was that my dad was a real hard worker. I learned my work ethic from watching and working with him.”

Jamie’s dad, Marvin, worked on greenhouses, taught himself to repair them, to build them, to tear them down. Jamie describes his dad as a self-made man, having been forced to go to work at age 18, to help provide for his family. From Marvin, Jamie learned about being self-employed, and how to make a buck.

“I definitely came from a working class family” Jamie says. “My dad left the house at five in the morning, was home by 4pm and in bed by 7pm. We had great summers living on Long Island. We used to go to Jones Beach, probably about 25 minutes from the house, my friends and I used to hitch there, back then it wasn’t a bad thing”, laughs Jamie. “We’d fill up coolers with soda, ice and other stuff and walk along the beach and sell it, we were always entrepreneurial. One summer we bought a clamming boat, caught clams and sold the clams to some of the restaurants. It was a ton of fun and I made life-long friends.”

Jamie and long-time buds

Jamie and long-time buds

At least most of it was fun. As life tends to do to you, it’s not always a joy ride. In his mid-teens the joy for Jamie and his family nearly came to an end. “At age 16, I almost died”, says Jamie. “I got mono, hepatitis, encephalitis and rye’s syndrome. The docs didn’t know how I got it. I spent two months, basically my whole summer, in the hospital. I threw up for 39 days straight. I lost 50 pounds. The day before they were going to fly in a liver specialist for liver and bone scans was the first day I didn’t get sick, and then as fast as I got sick, I got better. To this day no one understands how it all happened.”

While health presented a challenge in life, so did gaining an education. Although he watched his dad work hard and worked hard himself helping him out, Jamie says school was more play than work: “School was a challenge, I was bored in school. I was a goof ball, I graduated but I was not a good student, it was more about having fun and having a good time. After high school I just wanted to go to work and get into construction, but my parents pushed me to go to college. I’m thankful my parents did what they did for me. I’m grateful they pushed me in that direction.”

College got Jamie into the field of communications and once he got out, it was all about communicating on the streets, in offices – and enjoying the wonder of cold-calling – since he went right into sales. And as Jamie had learned from his dad, it was all about hard work and dedication. “I went into Manhattan selling copiers and then fax machines”, says Jamie. “I made the phone calls and I did the cold-calls. I started on the top floor of a high-rise office building and worked my way down, floor-by-floor, knocking on doors, until I got a sale.”

Success fuels more success and by the late 90’s Jamie was making a nice living in the telecom world, until that world suddenly collapsed. From flying high to as Jamie describes it, “the crash and burn”. “We lost everything”, he says. “When the industry imploded no one was hiring anybody making the kind of money I had been making. I picked up a consulting job, but the money ran out. We had just moved into our dream home two months before the crash. My marriage took a turn. My wife and I ended up getting divorced. I had to walk away from my dream home and my dream life. I had three young boys. I had to find another way.”

One good thing about his youth was Jamie maintained several close friendships from as far back as elementary school. His buddy Carl had found an opportunity he thought Jamie should investigate. “I knew Carl since I was 7-years-old”, says Jamie. “Carl had started with this company called UGA, and told me I gotta check this out. I told him the last thing I wanted to do with my life was sell health insurance. I did my due diligence, and met with Steve Koncurat in 2001. He offered me an opportunity. I told him, ‘you don’t know me yet, but I guarantee you I will raise the bar.'”

“I was going through my dark time. We lost everything, the house, filed bankruptcy, got divorced. The business was my savior. I put blinders on to everything going on in the outside world, then steamrolled through it.”

But even doing well and on the comeback trail, life has a way of keeping you in check. The man who got Jamie into the business, his life-long friend Carl, got sick. Carl was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and given only six-months to live. “I remember Carl met with the doctors”, says Jamie. “They told him OK, you’ve got six-months. Carl said no way, my daughter Jennifer is graduating next year from high school and I need to see it. He did. Carl lived for another year.”

Carl and Jamie

Carl and Jamie

Through it all – his hard work as a teen, a near-death experience and coming back from the bottom in business and financial hardship, it’s all about tackling what obstacles life lays at your feet. Jamie has learned plenty about comebacks. Now a successful Division Manager with USHEALTH Advisors he wants to share his story and his passion.

“I still remember seeing Troy McQuagge, (current Preisdent and CEO for USHEALTH,) speak for the first time in 2001. When I first heard Troy talk about HOPE it sounded strange. Most times in corporate America it’s all about the profits, not the people. But once I grasped the philosophy it made me better in my career and as a person. My whole philosophy – is how do we put people, our clients and our agents, in a better position than yesterday? How do we give them hope?”

But hope can only go so far, it’s also about recognizing what’s inside you, what you’ve got to give, where you’ve been, then reflecting and remembering to use all these parts to drive you forward.

img_1864

“I think there are definitely highs and lows throughout life”, says Jamie. “The most important things is not to lose sight of where you come from. I’ve had the highs and lows and ups and downs and I don’t forget what I went through with bankruptcy, or divorce or tough times. I keep them in the back of my mind to inspire me, I don’t ever want to go back there. Family is the most important thing. My kids are the world. They mean more to me than anything else out there and I want them to have a relationship with me, to look at me and be proud, to want to hang out with their dad and to instill work ethics in them and have them strive to be all they can be. Not losing sight of where you came from is so, so important. Friends come and go, but family is forever. Got to take care of your family.”

The Boys

The Boys

And Jamie’s family has now expanded to included Dana, his wife of 7-years and her three children as well. “The kids are all close in age”, says Jamie. “Five boys and one girl, they all hit it off right away and everyone gets along really, really well. I’m grateful and thankful to have them all in my life.”

jamie-and-dana img_1867

Until next time thanks for taking the time,

Mark Brodinsky

(Merry Christmas & Happy Chanukah)

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Author: The #1 Amazon Best Seller: It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
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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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