The next morning I went on WROC News to talk about preparing for Miss USA and my support for Resolve of Greater Rochester which works to intervene and prevent domestic and sexual violence against women.
Later that day my Miss USA gown that I designed with Sherri Hill was delivered from Michelle Holmes at Joyce's Boutique (pageantroom.com)! I was a little nervous but mostly excited to see it! I opened it and it was so stunning my reaction was "oh my gosh, I love it, it is amazing!" I wanted to post about it but my pageant consultant advised to keep it a secret until Miss USA.
Thursday morning I went to the Rochester Country Club for the Resolutionary Awards ceremony. I gave my speech focusing primarily on sexual assault on college campuses and how Resolve of Greater Rochester is working to prevent this but we want everyone to assist with prevention. It went well and I hope that I made an impact on people because this is an important issue. Then members of the commenting were recognized for their efforts in preventing sexual abuse and/or helping those affected by domestic violence.
It was very moving to hear how these people have made a difference and to see them be applauded and honored for their service to others. Thank you Resolve for inviting me to be a part of this inspiring event! After the ceremony I had fun working at Scott Miller in Pittsford and later I enjoyed helping my Mom teach karate at her dojo, Fairport Karate Academy!
The next evening I had an appearance at my alma mater St. John Fisher College for the Relay For Life event! I remember participating in this event when I was in school and I think it is great that the students raise money and awareness for an important cause. When I first got there I enjoyed meeting some of the members from Colleges Against Cancer, which I was a part of in college.
Then I greeted the walkers as they came in to the registration table. It was fun taking pictures, signing cards and talking with some of the students!
I met a young woman there who spoke to everyone about her experience with having caner. She shared how she was nervous, then what happened to her and how she overcame it. She did a great job sharing her story and it was a pleasure meeting her!
Then I got to witness something incredible. Lindsey Kocher, a student at St. John Fisher College, volunteered to shave her head in front of everyone at Relay For Life to bring awareness to cancer and to make someone who is affected by it have a better life. Lindsey said "If my tears can take away someone else's, by them getting this wig... I think that is a really beautiful thing - I can get through it, but they are already struggling with so much else, so if I can give them one little thing to make them happier, I would do it in a heartbeat." Even now as I am recalling her message and thinking about watching her Mom shave her head I am trying to hold back tears. That day Lindsey made a difference in many people's lives, including my own.
I wish that I could have stayed for the entire event but I had to go to NYC for another appearance!
