The face of cancer has changed and when a young woman receives the news that she has been diagnosed with the disease, it is not only frightening, but bewildering as she seeks support from among her peers.
The Pink Pearl Foundation, the vision of Thorold native Elise Gasbarrino who was diagnosed with cancer while still in University has not only raised money and awareness but it also has helped create the support network the young women of today so desperately need when they receive news of their disease.
The following is an interview with Courtney McNamara of Pink Pearl Foundation who talks about the organization itself as well as the amazing fundraiser coming up at the Distillery District in Toronto.
What is your history with Pink Pearl Foundation?
I joined Pink Pearl just over 2 years ago when my good friend, Elise, founded the organization. Elise was diagnosed with ovarian cancer while we were in University and has been working ever since to turn her experience into something positive for other people. I just knew I had to be a part of it. Now I manage our 2 major annual events – “Black & White with a touch of pink” which we are hosting at Airship37 this year, and “One Fine Day” which is held in the summer and encourages our supporters to host their own events in support of Pink Pearl, all on the same day!
The branding and presentation of Pink Pearl Foundation is very unique. It is very stylized, fresh and positive and is devoid of a clinical look that you may find in the health sector. What is the idea behind the branding?
Thanks for noticing! That’s exactly what we are going for… Our organization addresses the non-medical, emotional side of being a young women who is facing cancer. That was the thing that Elise really missed when she was undergoing treatment so it’s the gap that we aim to fill. Pink Pearl is a peer-support organization for women facing cancer, but it is also about celebrating and enjoying the preciousness of life. We hope that comes through in the brand.
What function does this upcoming event at Airship37 event play within the framework of the work Pink Pearl Foundation does?
“Black & White with a touch of pink” is our biggest fundraiser of the year and ultimately enables us to run our programs. It’s also such a great opportunity for us to get together with our supporters, participants and friends of the organization for a really fun night! The event name is meant to represent that we can be the “touch of pink” inside the black & white of the medical process surrounding cancer treatment. Elise started the event 9 years ago in the Niagara region, but this is the second consecutive year that we are bringing it to Toronto!
Photo 3: Pink Pearl Foundation volunteers celebrate the 8th Annual Black and White with a Touch
of Pink fundraising gala at Twist Gallery in Torronto on April 9, 2014.
What are some of the signature programs that Pink Pearl has developed?
Our signature initiative is our weekend retreat program. These are held regionally and allow groups of 15- 20 women to connect with each other and participate in a number of wellness activities like yoga, hiking and group discussions. We also facilitate ask-the-expert sessions during the retreats and as stand-alone programs. This year, we have launched a really special program that distributes “in-hospital support packages” to women at the point of diagnosis. The packages include an introduction to our organization, valuable resources and a support bracelet to help show her that she is not alone. We’ve partnered with GEMM accessories who provides the bracelets. For every support bracelet purchased, one is donated to one of these young women. They will be on sale at our event which will really help us expand this program!
How does social media play a part in building awareness for Pink Pearl Foundation?
Social media is a huge part of our marketing efforts and we have so many amazing followers! We have found our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram networks to be a hugely valuable and effective way for us to connect with our participants and our supporters. If you don’t follow us already, please do at pinkpearlfdn!
Does Pink Pearl Foundation brave relationships with other non-profits it works in conjunction with?
Absolutely. Partnerships have played a significant role in our success. The organization actually grew from a relationship with The Juravinski Cancer Center where Elise received her treatment. They have been so supportive in enabling our programs within the hospital and connecting us with great resources. We also work closely with Wellwood, Wellspring and Walker Cancer Center which are amazing non-profits that also provide support and resources for patients and their families. We are always looking to connect with other like-minded organizations and believe partnering only makes us stronger.
Let us know what you think!
About the Author
Annie Silvester
Annie Silvester is the Editor-in-Chief of niagarabuzz.ca and has returned to her roots in the Niagara Region, residing currently in St. Catharines, after many years in Toronto where she worked in the television, radio and publishing industries for the bulk of her career.
She holds a BA in English from Brock University as well as a degree in broadcasting from Humber College. These tools as well as an addiction to hard work, “super strong” black coffee and the 20 minute workout have moved her career path through various transitions that include newscaster, reporter, and video journalist not to mention a schedule that has “never a dull moment”
Locally she has worked for News Talk 610 CKTB, Niagara News Television and Bullet Media
Annie is thrilled to be launching Niagara’s progressive new voice….the video life and culture website niagarabuzz.ca, an infotainment site dedicated to celebrating the best that Niagara and the rest of the world has to offer….in between the headlines!
