Today we’d like to introduce you to Charessa Sawyer.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Charessa. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
In 2008, my mother was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I was in my final year of graduate school and working a full-time job. I received the call from my mother a little after 7:00 pm and, because my sorority sisters were present, I was able to maintain my composure. As the journey began and, though still in school, my sisters and I were able to support my mother as caregivers.
We did everything that we could to ensure we helped to save her life. We watched as she lost her hair and began to deal with symptoms of depression. My mother is a strong woman and this was the first time that I can remember her crying. I did my best to hold my own tears because what mattered was saving her life. The journey continued the same way as bills and life situations happened. At the end of her process, my cousin and I decided to book my mom a flight to Florida. She left with a scarf on her head and with tears in her eyes. She returned in a yellow shirt and beautiful curls all over her head. Getting away from the journey and our protection helped her. My mother had “Charged Up“ while in Florida. She was able to be herself and although Cancer was still heavy on her mind and heart, she was able to step away and just be mom. Just be Barbara.
Her story and our journey are what led to the development of Charge Up Campaign. Our mission is to focus on the mental health of the conqueror; and to speak to the person … not the cancer. My goal is to simply help put smiles on the faces of conquerors and caregivers through programs and events.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The process of developing Charge Up Campaign has been an amazing roller coaster. It has not been smooth but it has been worth the journey. Some of the challenges that we faced, like other nonprofits, are consistent financial growth. We are always seeking strategic partnerships and corporate sponsors to support the organization’s ultimate goal of opening a lounge and having a van to help caregivers and survivors with their needs.
Please tell us about Charge Up Campaign, Inc.
Charge Up Campaign provides program initiatives and events that celebrate and support survivors and caregivers. We specialize in programs, such as our Caregiver for a Day and Buddy programs. We are known for our annual Pink Champagne Gala that we host to spread awareness of survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, nonprofits and others who are doing great things in the community to support this population. We are beginning to work on projects that specifically focus on children and grandparents who also deal with the journey. I am most proud of our ability to maintain our integrity and support to so many survivors over the years. We host Day of Celebrations, Pajama Jams and Fitness projects that support survivors and the community.
Our high energy projects and strategic partnerships help to set us apart and gives us the ability to work alongside other organizations.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Destiny is what has played a major role in my life. I am not just the founder of Charge Up Campaign, Inc., but also the owner of a successful event planning and production company, SC Visionary Planning & Production Services, LLC (SCV Productions). God has placed me strategically around beautiful souls to help guide and teach me. Through my family trials, I have learned how to celebrate each day as it comes. My mother and my aunt are survivors. My uncle is a survivor. We are are God’s children and because of his Grace, we are destined for survivorship and success.
Pricing:
- Donations of any amount will support Charge Up Campaign
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chargeupcampaign.com
- Phone: 18662624555
- Email: president@chargeupcampaign.com
Image Credit:
Ace photos and design, Cranium art, John leak Photography
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