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Back in June of 2008 my wife and I were at the Philadelphia International Championship bicycle race talking to people about Carpe Diem USA. Many people felt that it was a great idea and were very supportive. One gentleman in particular had a lot of questions. After talking with him for several minutes he paused and said “you know, this is a fantastic idea, because adults have wishes too”.
Thanks to this anonymous stranger I was able to find the words that would sum up what we are trying to do here. Sure, we had a mission statement and some specific short and long term goals, but I had been agonizing for months on how to say in 5 words or less who we are and what we do. So now when you hear about Carpe Diem USA or see anything related to our organization, you will also see our new motto...
“Because adults have wishes too”
This is why we do what we do. Many adults who have a life-threatening illness do not have the time, resources and energy to seize the day…and that’s where Carpe Diem USA comes in. We exist to help adults experience some joy, fun and excitement by arranging an adventure or experience that they pick and we provide. The only criteria we use to grant “adventures” are: 1) the applicant must be a resident in our service area; 2) the applicant must have a life-threatening medical condition that has been diagnosed and verified by a licensed medical professional; and 3) Carpe Diem USA must have enough funds to cover the cost of the adventure. It’s that simple. So take a look at our web site and let us know if we can help. Is there something that you’ve always wanted to do, someone you’ve wanted to be or someone you’ve wanted to meet? The only limit to your adventure or experience should be your imagination.
June 2010 Update I am excited to announce that Carpe Diem USA will be reaching 2 milestones this month. The most important is that we have made a grant for our first "adventure." We are sending a family on a mini-vacation as the husband has just completed a round of treatment for brain cancer. To protect his privacy I won't go into the details, but let me just say that I am pleased that we have been able to help a courageous man take a break and enjoy some quality time with his family. The other big news is that with my move to the Cincinnati area several doors have been opened and it looks like we will be able to establish a fund that will serve adults nationwide! I am hoping to make an announcement in the next several weeks that will allow us to reach more adults who are battling life-threatening illness. And don't forget to check out the links on the "Join Team Carpe Diem" page of this web site. Join us in Philadelphia or Austin for the LIVESTRONG Challenge at either or both locations. Team jerseys are available and I will be posting instructions on how you can get yours very soon. |
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