REMEMBERING MOM: The Barbara Franklin Cancer Foundation, Inc.
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My Mom, Barbara Walker Franklin was an amazing woman. I have fond memories of her getting up at 4am to prepare my Dad's breakfast before work and later up at 6am to prepare seven children for school. She would then spend her day teaching children with special needs. At 6pm, she would return and prepare a hearty meal for 9, be on hand for homework, and tuck each child in at night. Needless to say, my Mom and Dad did a phenomenal job in raising seven children. My Dad worked as a supervisor for the U.S. Postal Service. Our total combined income growing as children was under the poverty income level in this country. We were always rich in spirit as my parents instilled a "Can do" attitude in each child.
Is it a coincidence that all seven children went to college and have gone on to live productive lives in our society? What were the keys to success? Are family values really that important or are they overrated?
Greg communicates these issues in his presentation.
In addition, 10% of Greg's speaking fees go to Remembering Mom: The Barbara Franklin Cancer Foundation, Inc. The Foundation was established by Greg's youngest sister, Regina Franklin-Basye.
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Remembering Mom: The Barbara Franklin Cancer Foundation, Inc. was founded by Regina Franklin-Basye, after the passing of her mother on May 9, 2003. Six months after Regina gave birth to her first child, Mrs. Franklin passed away (two days before Mother's Day) after a very brief battle with cancer. Regina founded the organization to allow other women to commemorate and celebrate their mother's lives, specifically around Mother's Day, instead of grieving their loss.
Annually, the women gather to commemorate their mother's lives the Saturday before Mother's Day at the "Remembering Mom" luncheon. Various activities take place during the luncheon that allow women an opportunity to share memories of their mother with others including a candle-lighting ceremony, memory reflection via photos, discussions, resolutions offered, a balloon-launch, etc. while still feeling a sense of celebration in spite of the physical absence of the mothers.
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In addition to the annual event, other activities that take place throughout the year include:
- Annual grief seminars and lectures presented by experienced grief professionals
- Semi-annual social events - emphasis on bonding with those who have also experienced motherloss
- Support group meetings offered for those with a recent motherloss (0-6 months)
- Support to women with recent losses via telephone calls and sympathy cards
- Spiritual and/or psychological resources offered for those needing grief and/or psychological counseling - a Clearing House of resources
- Community activities in conjunction with the American Cancer Society for mothers battling cancer.
- Support offered for those facing anticipatory grief prior to an expected loss
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Contact:
Regina Franklin-Basye
214/755-9644
www.RememberingMom.org
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