At BrandMatters, we talk a lot about brand values with our clients. Two of our core values at BrandMatters are heart and empathy, and once again, at this time of year, we would like to shine a light on these values by making a donation to our friends at the Dreams2Live4 charity. We have done this for the past few years in lieu of sending gifts to clients, and just as we thought, our clients have loved the idea.
Dreams2Live4 makes dreams come true for patients living with metastatic cancer, meaning cancer that has spread. This is a difficult and often grueling time for the patients and their families. By offering patients a chance to dream, Dreams2Live4 reignites their sense of control, purpose and optimism.
One of the dream recipients put it best:
“My idea of a perfect day is to go to bed with a dream and wake up with a purpose.”
This year, our donation has helped make a magical memory come to life for Alison. At the young age of 38, she has recently been given a devastating diagnosis. With little time left, her dream was to have some quality time – a luxury weekend away – with her lifelong friends. A trip they had always discussed and planned but until now, had never come to fruition.
Alison’s Dream:
“My dream is to have some more time with my besties. Just time together. To reminisce, to laugh, to dream, to cry, to laugh, to hug, to muck around, to chat, to laugh. Just time.” – Ali
When Alison first met her friends Lauren and Jenny in high school, these three girls could have never imagined where their paths would take them; the people they would marry, the children they would raise and the dreams they would have. What they never would have doubted is that they would never part. Together they shared a bond that carried them through the moments when they were needed most. When Alison was diagnosed in 2014, they have stood by her side. When there were days of treatment that seemed to never end they held her hand. When there was a fear of what the next would hold if it ever came, they gave her hope. Above all, when there was life, they gave her joy. They have given everything they can to see her smile, and so Alison gives the memories that will guide them and give them strength to carry on in life even when she can’t. With her dream, she chose to celebrate those who have lit up her life in its darkest hour.
The three best friends enjoyed precious time together for a dream ‘girls’ weekend away’ at the Peppers Hotel on the Gold Coast. They enjoyed every moment, from room-service breakfast while lazing in their hotel dressing gowns to a relaxed afternoon by the pool. For the first time in a long time, Alison and her friends could live in the moment.
To read more about Dreams2Live4 and the dreams they bring to life cancer patients including Alison, visit their facebook page or website.
