Brace Yourself

Quite often you will see or hear me writing about places and events going on through the community; that is, after all, what the point of this project is. Every now and then, however, comes along an individual whose efforts and talents are promoting and catering to something community driven and worthy of our recognition, however it may come.

I listened to a radio program recently that sent reporters out into surrounding communities to discover members of the population who were both memorable and serving some greater good to our society. I thought this was a great inspiration and reminder to me that Guelph is full of like individuals who are doing just that; and so out I set in search of the first in a series I hope to continue, focusing not just on establishments within Guelph, but the people that make this city what it is, and better.

Amanda Wong:

So, being October, I'm sure you've all seen those highly recognizable pink ribbons appearing more and more, and every time I do, it makes me stop to think for a moment to what they mean personally. It seems that, no matter who we are, someone in our lives has had to face the trials, tribulations, fear, and sadness that comes with the onset of breast cancer. And while we can, and should, continue to support the research that goes into the cure by donating through those pink M&M's, the pink Kitchen Aid stand mixer, the pink Blackberry, and the pink packages of button mushrooms you can now find at the grocer, there are individuals out there who are utilizing their personal talents to do just the same.

I first met Amanda through the powers of the Guelph Ultimate Players Association, and after talking to her a few times, I learned of something great she was putting into her already jam-packed daily schedule. As a gifted hobbyist, artist and craftswoman, she and her talents have been featured and presented at the Guelph Farmer's Market, have caught the eye of Mercury reporters and her work has been made available through the fabulous world of Etsy. As a Guelph resident, she has certainly done well to involve and dedicate her efforts towards the community, be it with her skills as an artist or through her impressive athletic contributions. By her very definition, Amanda is exactly the style of individual that warrants attention from her community, particularly considering she is using her artistry for good.

Two years ago, after realizing that she had the ability utilize her skill set to raise awareness and money for the Breast Cancer foundation, Amanda started making bracelets for the cure. In addition to her regular collection of accessory pieces, through the month of October you can also purchase her awareness bracelets, from she will donate a portion of the proceeds towards breast cancer research; since last year, her cause is already set to double in monies raised.

It always makes me stop, smile and think when I hear of an individual who harnesses their talents not just for profit but to do something genuinely good for someone else. We all have this ability within us to lend a hand, use our skills and, even if just for a brief moment say "There are better ways for others to profit from this." And yet, so often we choose not to.

And so, I guess I wanted to take this opportunity to create a platform for Amanda Wong and to showcase her art alongside her selflessness to perhaps inspire others to do the same. A look at her art is an explanation of her talent, and so I suggest and recommend you check out the link below, or email her for more information and product availability. I know there are a limited run of bracelets at the moment, and looking at the growth in popularity, they may not be around much longer. That being said, Amanda's work extends beyond the bracelets, and certainly beyond October; a link below has been posted to view a gallery and more of what she offers.

http://picasaweb.google.com/ecotigress/BreastCancerBracelets?authkey=Gv1sRgCJGG2eCik8LC4gE&feat=directlink

http://www.etsy.com/shop/craveaccessories

Feel free to contact her directly as well at:
crave.accessories@gmail.com.

Cheers all!
Phil