::Weekend Snapshots:: #HoustonFlood Edition

 {This is a weekly link-up with Jessica and Ariana for their #WeekendSnapshots series.  You can see more here: http://www.reinventingjess.com/ &  http://www.3twentysix.com/}

I think that the first two days of rain in Houston last week, we were all in a bit of shock. While our home thankfully didn't have any water damage others were not so lucky. I am grateful for that because as you will see, the damage and reality of flooding is not pretty. After the first two days of school cancellations and not being able to leave our neighborhood without being stuck in massive traffic and horrible downpours, I realized that I wasn't going anywhere. I think it was Wednesday when I decided to go to work but soon gave up. I decided that we should just make the most of our "flood-cation", one that now I am thankful for. 

The kids and I did a lot of lounging and resting, something we don't get to do often. Then we started getting creative with our activities. I cooked and cleaned all week. We baked cookies and made green cake batter from vanilla funfetti Pillsbury cake mix. The kids decorated cupcakes and we even colored and made puppets. Santiago entertained himself with piles of legos. Which is always fun, for him, because I have to sit and build it all. And, it wasn't until Friday that the skies finally cleared and we were able to leave the house. I found a route to work and felt a little relief to be able to leave my area. 

By Saturday, we had a full day of sun and heat. We went to the kids baseball games and practice. The day was good. Then we drove around a neighborhood about 5-8 minutes from us, on Little York and Addicks Satsuma , where the flooding was evident.  Homes that were basically being gutted to start over. The site was shocking, but for what it was people were out working hard and in good spirits. Not something I think I would recover from easily but I guess when you have no other option, recovery is the only way to move forward. If you are looking to help in the affected area I recommend helping, anywhere you can! I know that people would appreciate the extra hands to haul trash, sweep out mud or pull wet walls out. The true faces of the flood live in neighborhoods like this. This is only a couple of streets but the entire neighborhood was affected. 

::10th Annual Houston Via Colori::

 ::Momma Disclosure:: This is not a compensated post. All statements are my true and honest opinion. 

This Weekend will be the 10th Annual Houston Via Colori  which will be benefiting The Center for Hearing and Speech. Event is completely free and open to the public. The artistry will be amazing and the beneficiary is a local organization which is wonderful for the Houston community!


What is Via Colori?
            
LINN Energy will be presenting  Houston's Via Colori, now in its 10th year. More than 200 artists from the U.S., Mexico, Italy, Australia, and Belgium will create chalk murals on the streets of downtown Houston. Live bands will perform on three stages throughout the weekend. All proceeds benefit The Center for Hearing and Speech.

When is it?

This Saturday, November 21, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, November 22, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
             
Where will it be held? 

In downtown Houston at Hermann Square at City Hall at 901 Bagby, Houston, Texas 77002.

Who will be there?    

200 Artists including: Joel Yau, professional artist, San Rafael, California; Vera Bugatti, professional artist, Italy; Adry del Rocio, professional artist, Mexico; Melanie Stimmell Van Latum, professional artist, California. Local artists are also available for interviews. All will be available for interviews throughout the day. Public is invited to attend. Admission is free.

About the beneficiaries- The Center for Hearing and Speech:

For nearly 70 years, The Center for Hearing and Speech, a United Way agency, has been dedicated to improving the lives of children with hearing loss through clinical, education and support services. All of the Center’s programs demonstrate a commitment to enable deaf children to reach their full potential by teaching them listening, speaking and literacy skills. Last year, CHS provided services to more than 8,500 children.

For more information on CHS, visit www.CenterHearingandSpeech.org.

For more information on Houston Via Colori or to find out how to donate visit, www.HoustonViaColori.com.

::40 for 40:: #ChildrenatRisk

Have you ever thought of doing something completely selfless? And, then actually did it! 

During a time when it can be easy to forget about the needs of others, a local man is getting ready to embark on an amazing journey! Meet Nestor. His purpose has been driven not by his lack of but by the fact that he has been blessed with support and family. Nestor wants to simply "Pay it Forward". I can guarantee you that after listening to his story; you will be inspired to do more. Not only for his cause but for everyone around you. 

In speaking to Nestor, it was clear that he doesn't want the attention to fall on him. Yet, it's hard to ignore someone whose actions are so moving. Best of all, he is raising the money for a local organization that helps protect local youth, educate parents and empower our community. Children at Risk is a non-partisan research and advocacy organization. They provide education and resources to not only local communities, but now also in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Their work and dedication has led to several accomplishments, as they push forward in their own journey to help fulfill the needs of children.  

Nestor has set his goal. One that he wishes to reach before his 40th birthday in October, 2016. How can you help him reach and why not, surpass his 40k goal by his 40th Birthday? 

It's simple.

You can donate on his donor page:
http://childrenatrisk.donorpages.com/NestorEnriquez40for40/nestorenriquez/

Follow his journey, support his cause and share his story on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/40for40TX/timeline
Twitter: https://twitter.com/40for40TX
Children at Risk: http://childrenatrisk.org/content/?p=14126

Look for upcoming events and donate to 40 for 40! 

Being sensitive when it comes to blindness and other disabilities #BlindnessAwarenessMonth

First of all, let me just describe how a stranger may see Jassy from the outside looking in. They would see a beautiful and tall 11-year-old girl who doesn't exhibit the behaviors of what an "average" girl her age would be doing. Jassy does not make eye contact. She drools because she is a mouth breather, and has yet to master the concept of swallowing her spit. She loves to sing and make loud high pitched noises when she is happy. Jassy will also make angry noises when she is upset. This also includes fits of biting and pinching herself and others in reach. Of course those events happen randomly depending on where we are, and the noise level.

The initial thing everybody does is stare. They stare at the uncommon behaviors and try to figure out what is going on. You'd be surprised at some of the looks that we get. Keep in mind that body language is 90% of how we communicate with people. Some people will give us "angry" looks. Almost like why did we bring her out. As her parents, my husband and I have learned throughout the years how to brush those things off. Initially, however, it was very difficult to even bring ourselves to go out at all.

The best thing to do in a situation where you see a child that is blind or has other special needs is be kind. Try to be as empathetic as possible. (I can assure you that the parents have enough stress as it is.) That starts with your body language. You can look, but don't stare.

I understand a person's need to figure out the unknown. One of my favorite ways for people to approach us is when they say something like, "What a beautiful girl! How old is she?" Instead of sparking up a conversation based on what is different about her, I appreciate the regular questions that everyone else asks about any other kid. Anything along the lines of age, name, grade level, etc. That not only breaks the ice, but gives me a way to introduce Jasmine. Then, in my own way I can explain her differences.

Sensitivity for Jassy in particular, because she is blind, starts with people acknowledging her whenever they are around her. She can hear you, but most people tend to just ignore her. Loud noises bother her so it's awesome when there's music playing and someone goes and turns it down. That helps her to not get overstimulated. Descriptions of what is going on around her also help her to understand different situations. The more we can expose her to, the more she will learn.

I hope that I have in some way helped shed some light on the topic of sensitivity towards people with special needs. The situation for these families is already a difficult one. A road less traveled so to speak. My goal is to spread awareness and lift the stigma of the special needs community. The more we know, the better equipped we will be to handle different situations.

Houston Associations for the Visually Impaired: 

http://www.houstonlighthouse.org/

http://www.acbt-houston.org/

http://www.dars.state.tx.us/dbs/

::Love is...:: #DomesticViolenceAwareness

You don't know the women you will come across in this lifetime. How they will impact you or make a difference in your life. Which is why I try to meet as many beautifully empowered women as possible. Everyday. It's become part of my mission. Today, I am sharing with you the story of strength, that I know all too well. I am honored to have met Lulu, online and hope to meet her in person soon!

Below some helpful links to help us better understand the impact of Domestic Violence: 

Domestic Violence Awareness month history: http://www.nrcdv.org/dvam/DVAM-history

Houston Area Women's Center: http://www.hawc.org/

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Article by Lulu-

When I grow up I'm going to be a model/dancer/designer. I'm going to travel the world. I'm going to fall in love and live happily ever after. 

Every young girl's dream.

My name is Lulu. I was 25 and fell in love. Started to live the dream. I wanted my career I wanted children I wanted to take care of my man. LOVE did not go as planned. With all that came responsibilities, struggles and change. I am Latina and we strive to do it all. I became a housewife and I would have it no other way but I lost my Identity. The relationship headed for failure as I became the victim of abuse, first emotional then physical. I don't think he ever thought he was doing harm. I did not want to be a failure and did not want for my children feel like a dysfunctional family. I became numb until one day, 18 years later,  I could no longer stay quiet. I fought back..I wanted to find LULU again. 

The spirit I had growing up. 

I wanted to show my kids that I was strong. I wanted to show them what LOVE is. The photo below is of the only scar I am proud of from my abuse. I got this tattoo to help me stand taller everyday. It is the words I live by. It is in Spanish.

"love is patient, love is kind, is not jealous, not boastful,is not easily angered."

I once thought that God had abandoned me but in fact he was carrying me the whole time.

Never be bullied into silence, define yourself!

You must NOT stay silent. You must seek help and you must take action. It takes planning. But, if you are in real danger, you must find the strength and courage to move forward. Most important that you call the authorities. That is the hardest thing to do ..I KNOW. Do not let fear guide you, believe me calling the law is your proof and for your safety. Remember you are NOT alone.  I suggest you find an outlet where you can discuss this like; your church, or your county has centers for counseling for families and most important....true friends. I have had everything and nothing and believe me there will be a day you wake up and are proud of yourself. And, forgive yourself for not seeing your own worth sooner. The best thing I learned is you have to accept that it will feel like you are taking one step forward then two back but these are not failures these are God's way of guiding you.

Starting over. Wow. 

{Makeup & Photograph: Deirra Smith Collard; Owner of LeCharme Magazine.}

Then the question is why me...again single. Issues with trusting anyone and fear of falling into the same type of relationship. The divorce felt like death and liberation at the same time. I went to therapy for awhile and realized I had been holding back so many emotions. It felt good to be able to let them out. Then I realized I needed to love myself again. I could not be in a relationship if I still haven't work on me. I found my true passion again. Dance. I went to a Zumba class. I made so many new friends and started to grow again. My self esteem, confidence, and I was looking good. I became an instructor then became an instructor at my friend  Crystal Wall'S studio . Mixfitz Studio. This is when I found my voice. I want to inspire you to smile everyday and compliment yourself. Step on the box..stand tall and set new limits for yourself. Because in doing this, you will be the WOMAN you aspired to be once upon a time. 

Love will come again when it is God sent..not when you are lonely or alone. You need to peek over the walls you have built out of fear and breath the opportunities out there for you and yours.

I want to help others as so many did for me and they continue to do so, because life is hard. Remove the negative. Face it, nothing is given to you unless you GO FOR IT. Regain your voice, be a survivor, remember to be victorious and not be a victim.

Love is... The fairytale.... You meet someone. You feel butterflies. You feel complete. You plan the future. You live happily ever after. Don't ever stop being a hopeless romantic!

If you need to talk or help finding resources email me at beyoufuego@gmail.com

Solis Mammography’s :: Rethink P.I.N.K. Campaign :: #OctoberAwareness

                                   ::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All information provided by PR/Media rep. 

In the month of October, the color pink has become synonymous with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Everything from consumer products to the NFL is splashed in pink. And for this heightened awareness, the team at Solis Mammography applauds the efforts of so many organizations who work hard to create and maintain this public awareness campaign. And yet, in true ironic form, today’s reality is that too many women  avoid getting their annual mammogram because of the fear and anxiety associated with breast cancer. “Based on extensive research we’ve done with women who do – or do not – get their annual mammogram, we’ve learned that the fear and anxiety associated with the pink ribbon causes too many women to stay away,” says Connie Oliver, VP marketing and client relations for Solis Mammography. “We’ve built our patient services model to try to change that.”

Solis Mammography wants women to reclaim the month of October for national breast health, and dispel the fear and anxiety created around pink ribbons. Solis wants women to know that most women – 7 out of 8 – will not get breast cancer, and that their annual mammogram is a way to focus on empowerment, choice and peace of mind. 

As the nation’s largest independent provider of screening and diagnostics for breast health services, Solis wants women to Rethink P.I.N.K. this October and focus on breast health. In this campaign, the color “pink” is rethought and becomes an acronym, “P.I.N.K.”

    • P=Peace of Mind. Solis Mammography has trademarked the Peace of Mind Mammogram™ to reflect their promise of offering such an exceptional experience that women  won’t avoid getting the mammogram they need. The environment of each center and exceptional quality of patient care offered by specialists in breast imaging leads to peace of mind for the patients they serve.

    • I=Incredible Service. Solis Mammography’s entire team is deeply committed to the women and physicians they serve. From online scheduling and fast results delivered by secure email within 24 to 48 hours, the company is proud to cite that 98 percent of their patients would give them a positive recommendation to family or friends.

    • N=Not what you Expect. While many women associate mammograms with pain, Solis’ breast dedicated technologists are highly trained in breast compression and placement. This results in 89 percent of their patients reporting little to no discomfort during their exam.

    • K=Knowledge is Power. Perhaps most central to the Rethink P.I.N.K. campaign is the common statistic most women cite – that 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime. Solis encourages women to remember that this also means 7 in 8 women will NOT get breast cancer. But if you are the 1 in 8, you want to find any anomaly as EARLY as possible, so that your treatment is as EASY as possible.

            The Entire Month of October including Oct. 16 which is National Mammography Day .

***Note – Many Solis centers are offering extended weekday and Saturday hours during the month of October.  

Where: There are 4 centers across Houston. 

Visit our website to find the most convenient center: http://www.solismammo.com//find-a-center/Texas/HOU

One Solis Mammography client says, “I’m concerned about breast health - for myself, my husband, and my kids. I go to Solis every year because they make it easy for me. I’m in and out quickly, I get my results within a day by email, and I get the peace of mind that comes from knowing I’m all clear for another year.”

About Solis Mammography:

Solis Mammography is a specialized healthcare provider focused exclusively on providing women an exceptional mammography experience. Headquartered in Addison, Texas, Solis currently operates 31 centers across four states – Texas, Arizona, Ohio, and North Carolina. The company operates both wholly owned centers and multiple successful joint ventures with hospital partners. Solis provides a complete range of highly specialized breast health services including screening and diagnostic mammography (2D and 3D), computer-aided detection, breast ultrasound, stereotactic biopsy and ultrasound-guided biopsy.

For more information, visit www.SolisMammo.com, like them on Facebook, follow them on Pinterest, or subscribe to their YouTube channel.

• The staff at Solis is dedicated to providing you with a warm, caring experience.

• The environment at Solis is comfortable and soothing.

• Solis understands that mammography is an intimate test; they are trained to be gentle AND get the best picture of your breast.

• Solis cares about your time! The mammogram takes 5-10 minutes; your entire visit usually takes between 30-45 minutes.

• Results are delivered to you by secure email in 24-48 hours.

• “Solis is focused on understanding your concerns, anxieties and needs. You’ll never be treated like a number at Solis Mammography!”

• Convenient - Solis has multiple locations, so finding a center and scheduling your appointment is easy. Solis provides: Easy-to-make appointments via phone or computer, walk-in appointments are also available. Use the online appointment calendar to quickly book your appointment - choose the time and the day that work best for you. Click here to schedule.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women age 40 and older should have a mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health. Other organizations cite every other year as the optimal time to get checked. Solis Mammography encourages women to talk to their doctor, explain their unique health history, and make the choice that’s right for them. When they are ready, however, Solis is there to offer an exceptional experience – eliminating stress and anxiety in every way possible.

::Taco Cabana:: FREE Chicken Fajita Taco

::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All information provided by PR/Media rep. 

To celebrate the launch of Taco Cabana’s month-long fundraiser, Taco Treat, to benefit the Warrior and Family Support Center, the brand will offer guests one FREE Chicken Fajita Taco from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6.

Throughout October, Taco Cabana guests can help raise money for the WFSC, an organization that provides essential programs and services to seriously wounded U.S. veterans and their families, by purchasing $1 coupon books. The coupon booklets include five free bean and cheese taco coupons and a bonus coupon from Coca-Cola, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the organization.

More information can be found in the press release below: 

TACO CABANA^® HOSTS FIFTH ANNUAL TACO TREAT FUNDRAISER THIS MONTH

Proceeds from treat books sold in October support wounded vets; free tacos on Oct. 6

SAN ANTONIO (Oct. 1, 2015) – Taco Cabana celebrates the return of its annual Taco Treat fundraiser in October that benefits the Warrior and Family Support Center (WFSC). The WFSC provides essential programs and services to seriously wounded U.S. veterans and their families during treatment, recovery and rehabilitation at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio.

During the month of October, all Taco Cabana locations in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico will sell $1 coupon books, good for five free bean and cheese tacos, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to WFSC. This year, the books include a bonus coupon from Coca-Cola^® good for one free 20-oz. drink with the purchase of any item – bringing the value of the books to more than $7 in return for the $1 donation.

Additionally, from 5-8 p.m., on Tuesday, Oct. 6, each dine-in guest can enjoy one free Chicken Fajita Taco in honor of National Taco Day, while supplies last. No purchase or coupon is necessary to get the free taco.

“The WFSC is near and dear to our hearts at Taco Cabana, given the immense number of U.S. military stationed in Texas and across the region that we proudly serve each day,” said Taco Cabana Chief Operating Officer Todd Coerver. “Since the fundraiser’s inception in 2010, we’ve raised more than $300,000 and with the help of our partner Coca-Cola, we hope for the best year yet.”

The WFSC offers wounded vets and their families a place to gather, relax, receive emotional support and learn to cope with war-related disabilities as individuals, couples and families. The WFSC also provides vital family necessities including diapers, formula and food during times of great need and transition, and it also puts on special summer and winter camps for the children of wounded vets.

“We depend on the ongoing support of the local community to help us provide the necessary programs and services to WFSC members,” said Judith Markelz, Director of the WFSC. “The generosity of our friends and supporters helps the center maintain its goal of helping our war veterans and their families find a home away from home while recovering.”

For hours and other information regarding the Taco Cabana nearest you, please visitwww.tacocabana.com.

About Taco Cabana

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc., was founded more than 35 years ago in San Antonio and specializes in Mexican-inspired food made fresh by hand, including fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, enchiladas, burritos, tacos, flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of beer and tequila margaritas, patio dining and drive-thru windows. As of July 30, 2015, Taco Cabana operates nearly 170 company-owned and franchised restaurants in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico.

About Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc.

Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc., owns, operates and franchises Pollo Tropical^®, Taco Cabana and Cabana Grill^® restaurant brands. The brands specialize in the operation of fast casual, ethnic restaurants that offer distinct and unique flavors with broad appeal at a compelling value. The brands feature made-from-scratch cooking, fresh salsa bars, drive-thru service and catering. For more information about Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc., visit the corporate website at www.frgi.com.

About the Warrior and Family Support Center

The Warrior and Family Support Center (WFSC) provides coordinated services to wounded warriors, next-of-kin and extended family members, offering a friendly, comfortable environment for military families to reconnect during medical treatment. The only one of its kind in the Army, the WFSC allows wounded warriors and their family members to receive emotional support and answers to their questions, and to extend their rehabilitation away from the hospital. The $5.6 million WFSC facility was built in 2008, funded solely by donations, and is staffed by volunteers. The Center gives families a place to take a break, watch a movie on big-screen TV's, play video games, check email or use the Internet, select a book or magazine to read, make a phone call or just grab a cup of coffee.

###

Danny Medrano's Story #KindeyTransplants

One of my biggest dreams as a child was to be a physician, slowly I have realized that not becoming a physician shouldn't stop me from doing what I wanted to accomplish as a doctor which was to help others in any way possible. My passion and purpose is to use my resources and determination to help others! I try every day. Because of this I tend to open up to new people and in return people often seek my help…  If I can, I NEVER mind helping. Today, I want us all to PLEASE help Danny…here is his story as told by his Wife, Suelen Medrano:

Danny & I met in high-school we both went to Sam Houston High School, both had a Biology class together and that's where our love story begins.

First we became friends, then we talked on the phone, and kept seeing each other and so on. We both graduated in June of 2001, several months later on August 23rd he took me to our little "raspa" hangout called "Rainbow" and he asked me to be his girlfriend. 

On October 15th, 2006 he proposed, he took me to the same place where he had asked me to be his girlfriend 5 years earlier. 

In 2012, Daniel, was admitted in the hospital for (ARDS) Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, in critical condition and with no chance of survival, only given 20% of survival, to the point where it caused his kidneys to fail. Few days of dialysis needed to be performed. Waited more days for more changes until 3 weeks later he finally pulled through and woke up. 

Once released he was transferred to another facility in Tomball for physical therapy. He completed his one month treatment, he went home but a week later he started having issues with his vision, surgery after surgery and procedures, Danny's left eye was saved but his right eye did not heal the way the left eye did. It was really rough to accept this. 

So, we continued with our lives, just when we thought it was all over and left in the past, once again January 2014 it happened again never imagined it would change our lives forever. 

Danny was admitted to St. Lukes Hospital for an infection on his foot. At first, his doctor's stated that he would be getting out within a few days. However, that was not the case as the infection spread to his leg and caused renal failure again due to the strong antibiotic given (made it worse) and the fact that he's diabetic didn't help either. He started having breathing problems, had to be on oxygen all this was caused because he was retaining fluid. The infection on his foot thank GOD did not spread to the bone, he had a minor surgery on his foot, it went well, was told by Dr. Wang (Danny's primary physician) that it would be a slow process to heal. Days passed, running test and more tests. Dr. Wang came to see Danny  and asked if he knew what his kidney function stage was, he answered with "not sure", but they aren't working 100%. 

On January 28th, Danny started dialysis, we were told it would only be temporary but it didn't happened like that. Since then we have been searching and trying remedies for his kidneys to come back but nothing is working. We were then told it would be best to consider a kidney transplant but warned us that there will be a lot that needs to be done. 

So, we scheduled Danny's first appointment for April 3rd at the location where Danny will have to do numerous of tests to make sure he's a good candidate. God willing Danny passes everything, the next step will be to meet with the entire transplant team, then we will be added on to the waiting list, normally it could take up to 4 years. Thankfully, we have a few family members and friends that are willing to get tested to see if they are a match/donor. Dr. Roy explained that this would be best and once he receives a new kidney, Danny will be able to live a normal life, no more dialysis. 

All I want is for Danny's health to be restored. Danny has had so many set backs but we are determined and have faith that Danny's dream will come true. 

New Kidney Transplant here we come!!!!!!

 

::Supporting the Cause::

Fighting Kidney Disease. Because, I want to my husbands life to be restored and to be able to live a normal life, no more dialysis. 

http://www.gofundme.com/dannyboy

Suelen Medrano

Email: suemedrano15@gmail.com

Please contact Kidney Transplant Donor Coordinator: 

C. Sean Leonhardt

Direct number is: 713-441-5243
Email:csleonhardt@houstonmethodist.org

Methodist Transplant Center

Be a HERO! Make a difference! 

How can you help? You can help by donating money to help pay medical expenses and other medical supplies needed for Danny. And, by helping us find a live/diseased kidney donor for Danny soon. 

PLEASE register to be an organ donors. I myself registered earlier this year, unfortunately many people don't realize that organ and tissue donation is important. One organ and tissue donor can save the lives of up to 10 people and significantly improve the lives of many more. I wish I could spread the word all over the world to help others who are going through the same situation as us. I would give anything to find the perfect donor to prevent all of this dealing with dialysis, because  is not fun. 

Everyone needs to PLEASE be educated about this. 

What if it was you needing a kidney transplant, or heart transplant what would you do?