If you have read any of my previous blog posts, you know that I focus on celebrating the wonderful ways in which men and women and families are living and supporting their loved one through their cancer, rather than running away.  What you rarely see out of me is any political commentary.  You heard nothing from me regarding Komen- why?   because I would rather focus my energy on helping survivors, not worrying about the dealings of a corporate entity.  

Today though, on the heels of Amendment One passing in North Carolina, a very clear statement needs to be made.   I am proud that our organization is not one that will shut its doors on same sex couples.  I am proud that we believe that a strong family is the most critical element in a healthy cancer recovery and long term survivorship.  The arms of Little Pink Houses of Hope will always be open to the loving embrace of a women and her partner going through cancer.    Two and a half years ago, God called me to do this work and serve families in need.  And that is what we do- serve families going through the cancer journey- ALL families.  Cancer is the great equalizer- there is no room for judgment, only love and compassion.

So let me share with you the values statement that Little Pink wrote when we were founded, continues to espouse with our actions, and will live out loudly in our service:

Our Values Matter
Creating hopeful experiences through fostering loving relationships in a
non-judgmental environment.
Hopeful Experiences- our goal is to help foster family bonds through relaxed play and time away. We believe that individuals will have a chance to grow in their well being, relationships, nutrition, and spirit to help them in their cancer journey. We believe that at all stages of the cancer journey, it is not enough to survive, but rather to focus on thriving and celebrating life. We believe in having fun!!

Loving Relationships-our goal is to foster loving relationships by our words, actions, service, and connections. We believe that not only will families grow in love during our retreat weeks, but Volunstars will continue their Little Pink experience of giving long after the retreats end.

Non-Judgmental Environment-our promise is to create an environment of acceptance among staff, volunstars, and participants. We believe that families come in all shapes and sizes. We do not discriminate based on race, sexual orientation, gender, disability, age, geographic location, or religion. Breast cancer affects everyone, and it is our mission to serve everyone who is on the journey.