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Oct 18, 2006 - 4:39 am
Hmmmm....WHAT IS CP-5? Is it a new chemo? A strategic move in the game "Battleship"? A vegetable drink? No, it's none of those.... It's a full-blown celebration of life! The technical term is COLON PALOOZA 5. It's a gathering of friendship and support created by the members of this discussion board. It's a way to meet in person the people we feel we already "know" through our discussions on this board. Since there appear to be a lot of new members to this discussion, this may be a repeat for many, but here goes.... A while back a few of us who post often thought it would be a great idea to actually meet in person. Through this site, we've all shared everything from treatments and feelings, to belly laughs and recipes. We thought it would be a great way to put faces with names on this site. The very first Palooza was held in January, 2005. Three members from here met in Biloxi, Mississippi. That same year, 2005, in October, I planned the one in Las Vegas, Nevada. Kerry and her husband graciously hosted nightly gatherings in their suite, and we all had a ball. That Palooza had a combination of 9 members/caregivers from this site attend. At that one we learned the importance of scheduling activities while at the Palooza since after meeting in the suite, it wasn't even like we were all there for a purpose since everyone went off in their own direction. This past April, 2006, CP-3 was held in Austin, Texas. Kerry and her husband hosted the get together. She set up a tour of Whole Foods (organic store), planned nightly bat watchings (popular bridge location in Austin), arranged a tour of this web site's home in Austin, threw a party at her beautiful home, and extended hospitality like only a southern gal could! There were, I believe, 14 members/caregivers from this site that attended. Last week, CP-4 was held in BEAUTIFUL Halifax, Nova Scotia. Lisa Rose and her husband hosted this event. We visited the Titanic Museum, several Irish pubs, the local casino, Peggy's Cove, and walked the lovely waterfront including a sail on a Tall Ship. It was breathtaking! These get togethers end up strengthening the bonds between folks who are somehow tied to cancer. Whether they had it, have it, or are related to someone who has, it brings everyone together. The reason we have a "host" for these events is to do the following: (1) Arrange for a block of rooms at the same hotel for the reason of keeping the group close together and to get a great rate on the room. The hotel chosen is usually very gracious when they hear about the reason for our "event" and go that extra mile to make everyone feel welcome. It would make NO sense to have everyone stay at various hotels because that defeats the purpose of meeting in the first place. (2) Plan events for the group. Usually, the first day is for travel, with a casual meeting in the hotel bar or restaurant in the evening. The second night is meeting in the host's suite for drinks and appetizers. Lots of hugs and tears (of joy, appreciation) are exchanged. The next two days are various tours and attractions, followed by heading back home on the 5th day. They tend to run from Wednesday to Sunday. (3) Do a thorough search of the location to find the most to do, in safe areas, accommodating a group of people. If everyone was left on their own to head off in their own direction, that would also defeat the purpose. Granted, we're not tied at the hip, and nobody is forced to do any of the events. There is a lot of "down time" for naps, venturing off on your own, and doing what you want to do, but there is an outline of an itinerary which is wonderful. No formal invitations are extended. This is for everyone to attend. It's almost impossible to arrange a place that EVERYONE will agree to, so those that have attended in the past felt a place is chosen by those who attended the last Palooza. This is the group that not only SAYS they will attend, but ACTUALLY DOES. At this past Palooza, it was agreed that only one "official" Palooza will be planned a year. This way, everyone knows when it's coming and can plan accordingly. It's nearly impossible to make 2 events a year for financial and prior obligation restrictions. With all that stated..... Colon Palooza 5 will be......... Held in October, 2007 (exact date to be determined, probably Oct 10-14)..... in......... NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE!!!!! How's THAT for a curveball? The reason for this location is.... (a) Great airfares from almost every city under the sun (even Canada!) So, there you have it. Now, you can either write it off as something you have no interest in doing.....OR YOU CAN GET ALL GIDDY AND HAVE SOMETHING VERY AWESOME TO LOOK FORWARD TO NEXT OCTOBER. There is plenty of notice for people to arrange their financial and health situations to enable them to make this trip. Itinerary to follow over the next few months. Alright....bring on the feedback! Stacy |
Joined: Jan 2003
Re: CP-5
I can't wait! As I said before, missing a Palooza nearly broke my heart. They are so special.
I will be at this one, one way or another! Hopefully, dancing with NED. Oh, yes and I've saved a dance for Bud!
Thanks Stacy.
Kerry
Joined: Dec 2001
Re: CP-5
WHACK!
Get in line, honey!!!
CAT FIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!
:-)
Wish I could come! But I have learned to not even plan on it.....wah wah.
I wish CSN would fit the bill for those of us financially not able to do any of this....I mean shouldn't all those millions and millions they raise on us could go for something FUN for a change????
just my .02
How 'bout it Jose? any scholarship programs for some of us folks who are in dire financial straits who would really love to attend a CP???
peace, emily who needs to come and fuss at everyone for drinking and eating sugar!! haha
Joined: Aug 2003
Re: CP-5
Thanks so much for posting this. Some of the information was notionally included for newcombers but it is very useful to 'oldies' - esp those of us with chemo- or stress-brain!
I've never made it to a Palooza but I want you and others to know that just seeing and reading about and day-dreaming about attending has been an inspiration to me on some dark days (and nights).
NASHVILLE -- great choice! Can I be the first "maybe"??
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
You will be the first "maybe turning to definitely" on my list!
You will love it!
Stacy
Joined: Jan 2004
Re: CP-5
Great post, Stacy.
Thanks you for taking on this project. I can tell "party planning" is another area where you excel. What a high achiever!!!
Add me to the list.
Hugs,
Kay
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
CP-5 NASHVILLE
First I would like to thank Stacy for taking this on ~ so fellow semi-colons start making your plans now for next fall I know ~ I am. Your all probably thinking oh that's 12 months away and we'll look at it in the spring or summer of next year. If you truly think you would like to join in on this wonderful " Celebration Of Life " make you commitment early. This will make Stacys life easier in planning the hotel, group events and tours. Down the road if health or money issues cannot allow you to attend don't worry about having to cancel out ~ none of us have a crystal ball.
Lisa Rose
Joined: Jan 2004
Re: CP-5
Also, please don't feel like we already know each other and you would be the "new man!" on the block. Nothing is farther than the truth. I brought along a friend of mine that was my caregiver as well as my mother's while I was going through my treatment. The Palooza group went out of their way to make her feel welcome and included. For that, I'm eternally indebted! Thank you all for being so special.
Love,
Kay
Joined: Aug 2005
Re: CP-5
New??????? MEN??????? COOL!!!!!!!!
(Hummmmm, wonder if I'll fit in with my naked happy dancing.....)
Hugs, Kathi
Joined: Apr 2004
Re: CP-5
You know I am there. I am wondering how I am going to go a year without seeing my dear friends and meeting and making new ones!!!!!!!
Lisa P.
PS. Great post Stacy and thank you.
Joined: Dec 2001
Re: CP-5
You won't have to because you are going to come up to Minnesota this winter and I'll take you snowshoeing and dogsledding in our wilderness!
so there!
peace, emily who is pouting in the corner
Joined: Jan 2004
Re: CP-5
Come on, everyone! Please let Stacy at least "pencil" you in.
Hugs,
Kay
Joined: May 2003
Re: CP-5
Stacy,
This sounds like a wonderful plan! Pencil me in, also my caregiver (Gina, my daughter). We would love to come. I look forward to keeping up with all the plans.
Blessings to you,
Jean
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
Jean...
You are officially "pencilled" in with the sharpie permanent marker waiting in the wings to make it confirmed! Your daughter will enjoy it, too. Caregivers come to these events also. They are SO important in the healing process.
Thank you!!!
Stacy
Joined: Apr 2003
Re: CP-5
Stacy -
Thanks for the post and - after seeing the movies - Iam REALLY sorry I missed the last palooza! you guys looked like you had a BLAST! I count the two Paloozas I have been to as at the top of my list for amazing events.
If I am not at sea, I plan to be there - along with my significant other! (wink)
Love ya, darlin
- Bob
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
YOU BETTER BE THERE!!! If you're the captain of the ship, you call the shots, don't you?!?!?! (lol) You just put down your foot and TELL them you're heading off to party....according to Kay, they'll "GET IT!" (Kay will clarify that for you!)
Smooches,
Stacy
P.S. Any elaborating on the "significant other" (wink wink) INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW!!!! (no pressure!)
Joined: Mar 2004
Re: CP-5
I attended CP-4. What a wonderful time!! I haven't laughed & sang like that in a long time. It truly was a celebration of life. (Boy, did we celebrate life!) Everyone was extraordinarily welcoming, friendly, & thoughtful. I look forward to CP-5!
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
Marie,
I'm surprised you didn't send out the warning that this will abolish anyone's potential political career....lmao!!
I've played your singing debut video for everyone at work....just felt like sharing!
All in good fun!!!
Stacy
Joined: Apr 2003
Re: CP-5
"sing"... oh... so that's what you call that!
(yep, I saw the movie) See you in Nashville!
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
My kids asked, "Mom, was aunt Marie drunk?" I had to sadly say, "No, not then."
I honestly cannot stop laughing....
Stacy
Joined: Aug 2003
Re: CP-5
It sounds like alot of fun. Maybe someday I will make it to one.
Maureen
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
Maureen,
I was hoping you would be able to come. I was reviewing my e-mails and noticed we've been corresponding for quite a while!
Maybe this is the one you can set your sights on!
Hope so,
Stacy
Joined: Aug 2005
Re: CP-5
Stacy,
Add me to the pencil list! Nashville! AND (hopefully, God willing) NED!
Thank you for the advance notice. My world has been sort of spinning out of my control...trying to slow it down...2007 is DEFINATELY going to be calmer, so I can do things I want to do (emphasize on I), instead of the beast leading me around!
Hugs, Kathi
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
I was wondering when you would jump on board!!! I can say this with confidence, "YOU WILL BE GLAD YOU ATTENDED!"
Rumor has it, the great SpongeBob and his honey will be also attending, too. That can only mean good things!!
Hugs,
Stacy
Joined: Jun 2006
Re: CP-5
My huby and I will plan to be there. Always wanted to go to Nashville! I'm not a big country fan but I would think a visit to the Grand Old Opry is in order...
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
WONDERFUL!!! I agree with you, gotta do that whole "Grand Old Opry" thing!!
Again, there will be a good mix of activities and "down time" to not be too overwhelming.
Stacy
Joined: Jan 2006
Re: CP-5
Sounds like a plan!!! Pencil me in too. I know I will bring someone, just not sure if it will be my hubby or my little sister. LOL. Maybe an early birthday present for me and her. I think it would be nice because our father just died from cancer and might also be a release of all that emotion. Can't wait!!!
Lisa F.
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
Oh Lisa, I am SO happy you're considering this event! You will make Lisa #3! My sister came with me to the Vegas one and it was cool. Either way, you can't go wrong....hubby or sister....will be a great time!
Stacy
Joined: Jan 2006
Re: CP-5
Hmmm...I can't think that far ahead, but I'd like to come, with my husband. So please pencil me in with a smiley next to it :)
Cheers,
Ying
Joined: Jan 2003
Re: CP-5
Hooray Ying!!!
Kerry
Joined: Mar 2003
Re: CP-5
Ying,
You are officially pencilled in with a smiley and a heart and a permanent marker waiting in the wings.
You and hubby will have a blast!!!
Stacy
Joined: Dec 2003
Re: CP-5
Hey Stacy and all,
With 2 kids in college and a mom in Pennsylvania, my budget is maxed. I do get lots of vicarious pleasure from reading about the plans and events, and DESPITE not having been to a palooza, I've managed to meet the amazing Stacy (who admittedly rarely sleeps, compared to my sloth-like 8 hours/night), Sponge Bob (twice!), Moesimo, Babs AND Ying and her hubby.
Living outside of Boston, I have issued an open invitation to meet anyone who is traveling to New England, so keep that in mind; an impromptu mini meet is also pretty uplifting.
Keep on planning and enjoying....I'm at the first one within driving distance! Judy
Joined: Oct 2005
Re: CP-5
I too cried and cried because I couldn't go to CP 4. The hotel was nice enough not to charge me anything I only knew I couldn't make it 1 day before I was to leave. When she asked why I was cancelling I cried to the lady on the phone...after I hung up I thought she probably thinks I'm nuts. So hook a Jersey Girl up and I'll see ya'll in Nashville. Do they say ya'll in Nashville?
Joined: Apr 2004
Re: CP-5
Heal yeah they say y'all in Nastyville!!!!!!!
The home of country music, cry in your beer songs, yes siree. They say lots more southern stuff there then I ever have. Grits, red eyed gravy, homemade biscuits, sweet tea, many fried kinds of foods (Emily, I promise I don't eat that stuff anymore!!!!!!). I am always amazed at the things they fry these days. BUT, they also have a Wild Oats (a competitor to Whole Foods)!!!!!
Y'all come on down fer a good ole time in Nastyville next year, ya hear!!!!!!!!
The city is also very diverse with many others then just southern types, home to the NFL's Tennesee Titans, and growing very fast.
I lived in Memphis many years ago and loved each and every trip I made to Nashville AND I was not a country music fan then and am not today. It is just a fun, friendly, and relaxed city.
Lisa P.