Good Wine...Good Cause...Great Thanks!

Thanks to everyone who attended the Wine Tasting and Concert to benefit MRF while honoring the memory of Amanda Wall and Corey Hadden.  And some apologies as well for posting photo after photo of the event…I hope I didn’t overwhelm your Facebook on Saturday night.  J  There were so many highlights to the evening that I’m not sure I can cover them all here.  The photos at the end will address most of them (yep, these are some of what I posted on Facebook!). 

The turn-out was phenomenal.  We hoped for 300 or so people and I suspect we reached that goal.  I don’t have the money figures, but I know we sold about $500+ worth of raffle tickets and another $500 or so 50/50 raffle tickets (where winner gets half the pot and MRF gets the other half).  Add in some of the proceeds from food sales and wine-tasting tickets and I’d say we made a decent chunk of money.  So again, thank you!

I want to personally thank those BITNP readers and supporters that answered my call for contributions.  A HUGE shout-out goes out to Heather Olson of Coolibar, Anthony Guerra of Brelli, and Susan Aceti of 31 Bags.  If I do say so myself, your items were the hit of the raffle!   

 

31 Bag and Brelli share a chair at the raffle!

Coolibar Gift Basket!

 

I had a handful of highlights of a more personal nature.  First of all, I always love meeting new people who have read my blog or Facebook page.  Most readers have been touched somehow by melanoma and this was true of both Celene and Summer with whom I had the privilege of meeting in person!  Each lovely lady shared their individual stories with me…each quite different but equally heartfelt, touching and inspiring.  Living so close to me, I hope I can cross paths with each again soon!

Celene and her husband Kevin

 

Summer with yours truly

The second personal highlight was meeting local morning news anchor Kelcey Carlson.  My family wakes up to her broadcast on WRAL every morning and I’ve always thoroughly enjoyed her presence.  To my great joy, she was as engaging and nice in person as she is on TV.  Her family had been touched by melanoma in the past and she was kind enough to stop by to be interviewed for a video to promote the 2014 Amanda Wall – Corey Hadden Memorial Walk.  I was a bit star struck…but also very happy to meet her and hear her story.  Thank you Kelcey!

Source: WRAL.com

Thirdly, not only was Kelcey interviewed, so was I!  I’ve stated here before that I’m not much of a speaker, but Don Jones (Amanda’s Dad) asked me to appear in the video and I couldn’t say no.  I was mic’ed up and then asked a few questions about melanoma awareness, my “relationship” with the disease, and a little bit about BITNP.  The interviewer did a great job and I hope I was able to contribute in a positive way.

Ready for my close up!

The evening went a long way toward raising funds and melanoma awareness, but we have a long way to go.  There were several women in attendance wearing bare-shouldered tops that revealed very distinct tan lines.  Also, there was one line in a performed song that stated, “My tan is fading, I need a beach!” (A Jimmy Buffett song I think).  No fault of the performer at all (he was great!)…just a reminder of how far we have to go to truly raise awareness….REAL awareness!

Now…on with the photos!

Big Mike's BBQ supplied the food!  (The Redneck Nachos were to die for...Fritos, Pulled Pork, Baked Beans, Blue Cheese Slaw and BBQ Sauce..yum!)

 

The Niche Wine Lounge hosted the event...thank you Niche!

Evening entertainment by Bud Moffett and the Reef-ettes!

Early evening band was Long Time Gone!

Serving cool brews in the shade!

We're talking a REAL wine tasting!

Top 5 Reasons to Attend the Amanda Wall Corey Hadden Event on July 20

The Top 5 Reasons to Attend the Concert and Wine-Tasting for the Amanda Wall - Corey Hadden Memorial on July 20:

 

5. Prizes!

We'll be holding a raffle for various prizes throughout the night!  There will also be a 50/50 Raffle where you take home half the money contributed and the other half goes to the fundraiser.  The more you enter, the bigger the pot gets!

 

4. Food!

Big Mike's BBQ will be available with their delicious food.  (I enjoyed their BBQ during the recent Apex Pig Feast and was quite impressed).  A percentage of proceeds will go to the evening's fundraising (Thanks Mike!)

 

3. Two Concerts!

“Long Time Gone” will kick off the music at 5:00 and Bud Moffett will start at 8:30.  If you like CSNY and Jimmy Buffett, you're in for a treat!

 

2. Aldo and the Niche Wine Lounge!

The Niche Wine Lounge is a unique and relaxing environment to gather with friends and enjoy a fine wine or brew.  (Although I think the atmosphere will be more "party" than "relaxing" for much of this night).  They've just completed an incredible renovation!  Aldo is the Niche Wine Lounge's resident wine connoisseur.  And ladies, he's easy on the eyes.  (Heck, even I think so!) 

 

1. Raising money for the Melanoma Research Foundation and the Amanda Wall Corey Hadden Memorial.

The Amanda-Corey folks are great and they've been doing great things to raise money for the MRF.  Your contributions through raffle purchases, wine tastings, BBQ consumption, and any spontaneous donations will do so much to help with melanoma research!

 

No matter the reason, it’s going to be a great time!  I’ll see you there!

3,000 and Growing

Life has been pretty hectic lately, so I was extremely surprised to read what the Rev. Carol Taylor (of the Melanoma Prayer Center) posted on my Facebook page:

“Congratulations for breaking 3000!  Keep up the great work.  I'm sure Jeff is beaming with pride.  Blessings, Al!”

As my son would say, “Wait…whut?” 

Wow!  3,000 “Likes!”  Honestly, when I first started, I never thought I’d reach 100.

Back in August of 2012, less than a year ago, I reached the 1,500 mark.  How I doubled my “Like count” in such a short time baffles me.  To all readers…thank you!

As I’ve mentioned before, I keep a list of folks that “Like” my page.  Not for stalking purposes mind you, but just to get a feel to where my words are spreading (and to satisfy my little touch of OCD).  I’m happy to say that all 50 states have visited my page with North Carolinians visiting more than others.  Texas, Ohio, California, and Florida round out the Top 5.

My international presence has spread to 44 countries or territories now.  Citizens of Australia have visited my BITNP page more than others while Canada, England, and Italy have followed close behind. 

While the numbers are impressive, they are also somewhat discouraging.  Chances are that nearly all readers have been touched by melanoma in some way and were led to my page (and others) as they searched for answers.  On one hand, I’m so glad they’ve liked my page and hopefully have reached out to other readers for those answers.  On the other hand, I wish there was no need for answers…I wish that melanoma touched no one.

I’ve noticed periodic spikes in increased readership over the years.  Not long ago, there were about 15 straight new “Likes” from Indiana.  Again, thrilled to have new readers but saddened for the reason.  I knew that someone these people loved was most likely directly touched by melanoma.  What’s inspiring about such a spike however is that this person seems to have a strong group of supporters and loved ones.  The person affected is obviously surrounded by great people.

Despite the fact that most readers are already aware of melanoma, I’d like to think that each new “Like” means someone learned something new from a link or thought shared on my page.  I’d prefer not to concentrate on the number of readers, but the number of increased awareness.  For that reason, I’ll continue to spend late nights searching Google and Bing for news and stories related to the fight against melanoma.

While the 3,000+ people who have “Liked” my page have all been touched by melanoma, let’s take a moment to consider how melanoma could statistically affect 3,000 average people.  Current stats show that 1 out of 5 folks will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime.  That means out of a random 3,000 people, 600 will eventually have skin cancer!  For melanoma, the statistical odds are 1 in 50.  That means 60 people will be diagnosed with melanoma!  That’s 60 too many!

When I first started my Facebook page, I launched it as a promotional page for my blog.  I had no real plans to use it as the primary tool to spread the word about melanoma awareness.  As it turned out, the page became far more effective as I have been able to link stories and articles almost daily.  It has also been the main conduit to meet and associate myself with some really incredible people.  I doubt I would ever have formed such a strong bond with Carol, Rich, Chelsea, Timna, Katie, and so many others through my blog alone and without my Facebook page. 

Thank you again for “Liking” my Facebook page, and for reading this blog.  I do this in memory of my brother Jeff, in honor of my growing children, and in awe of the amazing people who have come into my life!

 

Al

UV Awareness Month...Protect Your Peepers!

Did you know that July is UV Awareness Month?  The American Academy of Ophthalmology has deemed July as the month we should spread awareness about UV safety, especially as it applies to eye safety.

Interestingly, the AAO states the usual sun protection facts that we all SHOULD know by now:

• Wear sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher (I recommend 30 or higher)
• Wear long sleeves and hats
• Avoid being in the sun during the peak hours of 10AM to 2PM.
• Wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
• Keep an eye on changes to your skin.
• Wear UV Protective sunglasses.

“Prevent Blindness America” (which actually declared May as UV Awareness Month) shared some additional tips and facts regarding sun safety for the eyes:

• Always wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.  Sunglasses without UV protection may shade the eyes, but actually cause the pupils to dilate, thus allowing more harmful rays.  (In other words, merely shading the eyes could cause more damage if you don’t add the UV protection!)
• Wear a brimmed hat along with the proper sunglasses for additional protection.
• Choose wrap-around sunglasses to protect the eyes and skin around the eyes.  (Many people apply sunscreen very lightly near the eyes (it burns!), so sunglasses are equally important to protect the skin around the eyes as they are to protect the eyes.)
• Be aware that while some contact lenses may offer UV protection, they cannot protect the entire eye and the skin around it.
• Choose sunglasses made of unbreakable polycarbonate, especially for children and those that lead active lifestyles.
• Ask your doctor is any medication you’re taking may cause increased sensitivity to light.

According to the “Vision Council,” the following medical issues are associated with UV explosure:

• Skin Cancer
• Cataracts
• Macular Degeneration (the leading cause of blindness in the country!)
• Photokeratitis
• Pterygium

In short, your eyes are very sensitive organs that need to be protected from UV exposure as much as (or even more than) the skin.  In fact, this is one thing the tanning industry got right.  Even they provide those goofy eye protectors to wear during tanning sessions.  You KNOW it’s important if even those guys offer protection!

The next time you lather on the sunscreen, don’t forget your UV protective sunglasses.  Protect your peepers!

Fund-Raising Flyer

Below is the official flyer to the wine tasting fund raiser to be held in Holly Springs, NC on July 20.  If you're in the neighborhood...or even a good drive away, it'll be worth attending!  If you're from out of town, let me know and I'll suggest some local motels/hotels.

And if you're a Jimmy Buffett fan, the Bud Moffett band is a Buffett tribute band.  It should be tons of fun!

Being "That Guy"

We all have heard of “That Guy.”

Who?

You know…that guy that always parks his car under the tree.  Oh, THAT guy!

Who?

You know…that lady that walks two huge dogs around the block at 7:00 every night.  Oh, THAT lady!

Who?

You know…the actor that played in that bad movie about the dinosaurs in the volcano.  Oh, THAT guy!

Not only do you know of “That Guy,” you probably are “That Guy” to someone else.  I’m sure I’ve been referred to as the guy who drives the beat-up Toyota Corolla, or the guy that works on the General Electric product, or the guy that has the twins.  “That guy” is usually defined by his behavior or actions, which may or may not be a good thing.  The other day, I was referred as “That Guy” in a very good way indeed.

“That guy that always talks about skin cancer.”

I wear that title with pride because I didn’t earn it from brash and annoying behavior (at least I don’t think I did). Instead, I became “That Guy” through subtle consistency:

• My screen saver at work has three oscillating words floating back and forth that read, “Wear your sunscreen!”
• On Casual Friday, I usually wear a t-shirt related to a melanoma fund-raising event or one of my BITNP t-shirts.
• My colleague, Elliot often places a newspaper or magazine article related to sun safety or melanoma on my desk.  Rather than store it in my briefcase, I leave it laying there for others to see when they come by my desk.
• When others are surfing for online news during their lunch break, I’ll seek out skin cancer-related articles and keep them on my screen for others to see.
• While questions about it are rare, I wear my melanoma awareness wrist band daily.
• Although such conversations are also rare, I jump in anytime skin cancer or sun safety is mentioned…not in a preaching way but just to participate in discussion.
• When people ask me how my evening was, I’ll often say, “Pretty good…I wrote a blog post last night about tanning beds (or whatever) and got a good response.”

I have found that being “That Guy,” has affected how people act around me:

• When someone comes to work on Monday with a sun burn or tan, others will whisper “You better not let Al see you!”
• If someone has a spot or mole on her skin, they’ll ask me about it.  (I remind them that I’m not a doctor…but encourage them to see one).
• I am approached about sun screen all the time.  Someone might be looking for a loophole (“What SPF will protect me but still allow me to get some color?” Um…if you get color, you’re not protected).  Others might be seeking the best brand or application.  I refer them to my blogs or other sites.
• People brag to me when they take positive action towards sun safety (“Hey Al, just wanted you to know I rented an umbrella at the beach.”  “Hey Al, I went to the dermatologist yesterday and they told me…” (I’m most proud of this effect).

You can be “That guy (or gal) that always talks about skin cancer” as well.  You don’t have to stand on a pulpit with your Skin Cancer Foundation Journal in one hand and a bottle of SPF 30 in the other.  You can be approachable and still be “That Guy.”

People are more aware of how “That Guy” treats his car by knowing he parks it under the tree every day.  Being “That Guy” that always talks about skin cancer hopefully makes people aware of my mission and more aware of skin cancer and sun safety.

Be “That Guy!”

Protection Factors: SPF and UPF

Original Image:  imabeautygeek.com

There are two types of “protection factors” associated with the sun.  The first is the more common Sun Protection Factor, or SPF.  This is basically a measurement of the skin’s protection against UVB radiation, and it’s determined by measuring the ratio of time the skin would redden with sunscreen against the time it would burn without sunscreen.  Basically, if it takes you 15 minutes to burn, and SPF rating of 2 would allow you to stay in the sun for 30 minutes, or twice the amount before turning red.  Applying an SPF of 10 would theoretically allow you to sunbathe for 150 minutes…2 ½ hours!  So why in the heck would one need a sunscreen of SPF 30…after all, would you really want to stay outside under the hot sun for 450 minutes, or 7 ½ hours?

The truth is no sunscreen is going to stay effective that long.  First of all, your body will perspire under the sun, and sweat will degrade the lotion on your skin. Secondly, and most importantly, you probably don’t put anywhere near as much sunscreen on your skin as those laboratory folks do when rating SPF.  Most folks recommend that you apply about one shot glass of sunscreen to your body per application.  That’s really a lot of sunscreen!  In fact, applying that much sunscreen on your body each time would deplete a typical bottle of sunscreen in less than two days!  So again, why apply SPF 30?  Because one less-than-recommended application of SPF 30 is probably equivalent to a true laboratory coating of SPF 10 or less. 

That’s why you need to apply sunscreen every two hours.  You probably apply sunscreen when you first start your day in the sun, but fail to reapply later on.  Such lotions last about two hours, meaning when you start that round of golf at 10:00AM, you need to be adding it again before you make it to the back nine.  I’m sure many of you don’t.  But you need to.

Admittedly, sunscreen can be a real pain, but it’s important to get past that annoyance and make it part of your regular routine.  And by regular routine, I mean DAILY routine.  Sun damage is a cumulative thing….a little exposure here and a little there adds up.  Even walking the dog or engaging in a brief outdoor activity like lunch can add up over time, so it’s important to apply sunscreen every day…and every day of the year. 

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends an SPF of 30 as I state above and make sure it’s a broad spectrum lotion.  The Sun Protection Factor only applies to UVB rays…you need the broad spectrum lotion to also protect against UVA rays which contributes to skin cancers and aging.  Even an SPF of 100 doesn’t protect you against UVA rays if it’s not broad spectrum.  Make sure to apply it 30 minutes before you head out to allow it to soak into the skin.  After that, apply it every 2 hours.

Speaking of soaking into the skin, you might have some worries about the effects of the chemicals within such lotions on your skin and health.  For the vast majority of products, sunscreens are safe.  In fact, sunscreens are regulated as a medical product by the FDA the same as topical pain killers, acne creams, etc.  In Europe, sunscreens are considered a cosmetic and fall under far less scrutiny for skin safety.  Titanium oxide and zinc oxide are two chemistries that have been used as effective blocking sunscreens for years.  However, recent technology has allowed these elements to become smaller and smaller.  There is a real concern that nanoparticles of either chemical could now penetrate the skin.  Studies thus far are inconclusive as to what the dangers might be, but some medical professionals advise against any sunscreens that include nanoparticles.  Make sure to check the label of your sunscreen and chose the best for your needs and comfort.  But by all means, wear some type of sunscreen!

There is also a second type of protection factor…this is the UV Protection Factor, or UPF.  This is a measurement usually associated with the ability of clothing to protect against UV exposure.  This is not measured by comparing burning skin to protected skin, but measured with UV detection equipment.  Basically, a known amount of UV rays are transmitted onto a surface, such as fabric.  On the other side of the fabric is a meter which detects UV rays.  For simplicity sake, let’s say 50 “rays” of UV was transmitted onto the fabric, and only 1 “ray” was detected to have gone through the fabric.  This ratio of 1/50 means that the fabric has an SPF rating of 50.  This also means that 49 out of 50 rays, or 98% of the rays were blocked.  This is an excellent rating.

A typical good UPF rating is 30, much like SPF.  This means that only 1 out of 30 rays penetrated the fabric, or that 29 out of 30, or about 97% of the rays were blocked!  So what is a good type of fabric that offers a good UPF rating?  There are three parameters to consider when seeking good UPF-rated clothing: material, weave or thickness, and color.

The best materials are nylon, wool, silk and polyester.  All of these materials are usually tightly woven.  Loosely woven attire of the same material obviously wouldn’t work as well.  It’s all about blocking the UV rays, and the more dense and thick the material, the better.  Color matters as well.  Darker colors such as black or navy blue are best.  Bleached material is generally thinner and thus allows more penetration.  So what’s the perfect summer shirt to block the rays?  A long-sleeved black wool sweater. 

Obviously not the most comfortable in hotter climates.

Luckily, lighter-weight apparel with a high UPF rating is more readily available.  Companies such as Coolibar, UVSkinz, Mott 50 and others specialize in such attire and are growing in popularity.  Additionally, discount stores such as Target and Walmart offer more selection of cooler nylon shirts with UPF ratings of 30 or higher.

Remember that regular clothing also offers UV protection even without having a specific UPF rating.  Wearing a t-shirt offers much better protection than no shirt at all.  However, be careful of wear and tear in older clothing.  Fabric that is stretched allows more rays to pass through, so chose a newer t-shirt over that old stretched out comfort shirt.  Also, make sure your shirt has been washed.  The act of washing and drying will shrink many fabrics, especially cotton, which causes the weave to become tighter. 

Did your mother ever put a shirt on you when you played under the sprinkler or visited the public pool?  Mine did, thinking that the shirt offered better and longer lasting protection that the sunscreen.  But guess what?  A wet t-shirt offers virtually NO protection from the sun.  It allows the fabric to stretch and spread out, thereby opening the way for a full onslaught of UV radiation.  Trust me; I had many a night smelling of Solarcaine after a day of wearing a t-shirt at the pool.

Finally, no sun protection, whether SPF or UPF, would be complete without a hat.  A ball cap might offer some protection to the face, but a full, wide-brimmed hat would be more preferred.  Many people simply forget to apply sunscreen to the back of their neck, so having that extra protection in the back adds an additional bit of sun protection security.

No matter your attire, be sun-safe and be aware.  Embrace your time in the sun; just stay protected when you do so.