There are times when the generosity and compassion of complete strangers will take my breath away. Today I was breathless. I was invited, thanks to the very kind nomination of Carole Lacasse, to the 3rd annual Saab Salon - Spa Breast Cancer Survivor Day, at 376 Bank Street.

This incredible event is co-ordinated in conjunction with the 100 Man Run (4th annual), a fund raising initiative co-founded by Amanda O’Reilly (Balance in Style - Owner) and Ken Avraire (Television Sportscaster), which supports the CIBC Run for the Cure (October 4, 2009).
 
Picture this, I walk into the stunning Saab Spa and see a sea of pink; pink tops, pink scarves, pink decorations, pink hair pieces. Add to that trays of delicious fruits, cheeses, scones, biscotti and of course cake. I am greeted, welcomed and lead to one of the few unfilled chairs to meet Cindy, a lovely young lady who offers to provide me with whatever salon service I would like. I see women having their hair cut, coloured, styled, straightened – all survivors being acknowledged and pampered.

In addition to the many strong ‘survivors’, I see celebrities, including Saab Salon - Spa owners Frank and Nina Saab, Ken Avraire and Angie Poirier, who is reporting live for A Channel. Also mixing with the crowd is Police Chief Vernon White and Mayor Larry O’Brien. Beside me I see Dwight Grant (Mellow Dee Music - MySpace) who is playing and singing the full gamut of song genres, including his own freestyle, personalized ballad.

After highlights, hair cut and style, I was treated to an incredibly relaxing back massage by Jordan, Saab’s Registered Massage Therapist.

Through my cancer journey I have many days I remember.  Today, all these people gave us ‘survivors’ another day to remember – a great day. To say thank you seems terribly insufficient, but in absence of a greater expression of appreciation, please accept this THANK YOU – for MY great day.
 
For more information on the 100 Man Run please contact Amanda at 613-796-2252. amanda@balanceinstyle.com

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