Our resident Canadian Geese are back and are expecting!

 

It’s  “Baby Watch” 2016 at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction!!!

 

 Meet Edith and Archie. These beautiful geese reside outside of our Mt. Pleasant office.  Edith began resting on her nest just a few weeks ago with her mate Archie right by her side protecting her and their eggs from harm.  Believe me, Archie will let you know when you get too close for comfort.  This picture was taken while he was warning me!    

We’ll keep an eye out on them over the next few months and share their progress aloing with lots of photos once the babies arrive.    

Keep watching & Happy Spring!!  

 

Gail

Our residents Edith and Archie                         archie goose

All Things Charleston: Music Therapy

 

 

We might be a tad bit biased, but there’s never a dull moment in our beautiful and charming hometown of Charleston, South Carolina.

From gorgeous beaches and historic attractions to incredible cuisine and the most hospitable people in the country, you will never run short on activities.

Music therapy is one of the many choices you have.

At The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, we like to celebrate Charleston and life itself, and there’s no better way to do that than music. As Billy Joel put it, “I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by.”

To add to his point, music provides a wonderful therapy, no matter if you’re coping with breast cancer or simply looking for a cathartic release. In fact, there’s a science behind the healing power of music.

According to a University of Florida article, music has a profound effect on the human brain. Specifically, listening to music regularly will…

  • Decrease anxiety.
  • Promote healing.
  • Increase optimism.
  • Decrease pain.
  • Improve language skills.
  • Spark creativity.
  • Cause happiness.

You can read the article here, but suffice it to say, music therapy is an ideal healing strategy for breast cancer survivors and the people who love and support them.

Since we’re here to be your resource for all things therapeutic, in this article you’ll learn about some upcoming concerts in Charleston, South Carolina, that you may enjoy.

Saturday, April 2-The Phantom of the Opera

The Phantom of the Opera is a 1976 musical with book and lyrics by Ken Hill. It is the first musical adaptation of the novel The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux, about the hideously disfigured Phantom’s amorous obsession with the magnificent, naive singer, Christine. Hill wrote the original English lyrics to the music of Verdi, Gounod, Offenbach, Mozart, Weber, Donizetti, and Boito.

Grab your tickets.

Wednesday, April 13-The Sound of Charleston

For over three centuries, Charleston’s musical heritage has been as diverse as the people who’ve lived here–haunting spirituals of slaves first arriving in America through our port, Civil War camp songs from both sides in this place where the first shots were fired, and more…

Grab your tickets.

Saturday, April 23- Alabama Shakes

Alabama Shakes is an American rock band formed in Athens, Alabama, in 2009. The band currently consists of lead singer and guitarist Brittany Howard, guitarist Heath Fogg, bassist Zac Cockrell, keyboard player Ben Tanner, and drummer Steve Johnson.

Grab your tickets. 

Wednesday, August 10-Ray Lamontagne

Raymond “Ray” Charles Jack LaMontagne is an American singer-songwriter. LaMontagne has released five studio albums, Trouble, Till the Sun Turns Black, Gossip in the Grain, God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise, and Supernova.

Grab your tickets.

Why we recommend music therapy.

When it comes to breast reconstruction and surviving cancer in general, it’s all about celebration…and there’s no better way to express gratitude and feel more alive than listening to music that moves you.  

Though we can’t teach you how to play an instrument, we can help you make healthcare decisions. If you have any questions about our breast reconstruction procedures, click here to ask a doctor.

Tricks to Keep Your Kids Busy in the Winter

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With the chilly weather settling in, ideas to keep your kids busy in the winter can start to run thin.

Being cooped up with nothing to do can lead to some serious child meltdowns—which leads to parent meltdowns.

That’s why it’s important to provide activities and plans to keep kids occupied and in good spirits.

In this post, we’re sharing 5 tricks to keep your kids busy this winter.

Build an indoor fort

Building an indoor fort with blankets, pillows, and couches is a classic indoor activity that kids LOVE! Of course, it adds a little extra cleanup to the day, but the hours of fun (and distraction) are well worth the mess!

Bundle up and enjoy the outdoors

Sure the weather is a little chilly, but we’re lucky to live in an area with a relatively moderate temperature range. When cabin fever sets in, sometimes some fresh air is just what your kids need.

Put on some boots and a warm jacket, and take the kids for a walk on the beach!

Go ice-skating

Bring the kids to an indoor ice-skating rink, such as the Carolina Ice Palace. It’s an inexpensive activity that allows your kids to get plenty of exercise—while having a blast!

Make a movie night

Set up an ice cream sundae bar or pop some popcorn, cuddle up on blankets and pillows, and enjoy a family-favorite movie. Adding a little extra fun to a typical night will help put the kids in a more excited mood.

The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry

Going to a museum, such as the Children’s Museum of the Lowcounty, serves as both a fun activity and an educational experience for children. With so many engaging exhibits, this is a trip your kids will absolutely love.

Find this information helpful? Like us on Facebook!

Things to do – Independence Day 2015 in South Carolina

(Thanks to AppleOne Employment Services for sending this fantastic Weekend Recs e-blast for us to share!) 

Charleston

Fourth of July Fireworks on Folly Beachindependence day

 A holiday tradition on the Edge of America, the annual 4th of July fireworks display is set to take place on Folly Beach next Saturday. The fireworks will be set off at the Folly Beach County Park, at the west end of the island. Locals and visitors are invited to enjoy the Independence Day display, which will begin at 9:30pm. For more information about the 4th of July fireworks display on Folly Beach, please go to www.visitfolly.com or download the free ‘Visit Folly’ smart phone app.

When: 7/4/15 starting at 9:30pm

Where: Folly Beach-Folly Beach County Park- West end of Island

 

July Fourth on the Pride

Enjoy this Fourth of July with a sunset sail while watching the fireworks from the best seat in the house! Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Bring a snack or picnic aboard if you choose. Buy tickets by calling the number provided (843-722-1112) or visiting the website: http://www.schoonerpride.com/

When: 7/4/15 from 7pm to 9pm

Where: The Schooner Pride-Aquarium Wharf

Admission: $55 per person-book now as space is limited

 

North Charleston 4th of July Festival

The City of North Charleston is once again hosting the July 4th celebration at the Riverfront Park on July 4, 2015 from 3:30 PM – 9:45 PM. This year’s event features exciting musical guests, children activities, food trucks, craft vendors, and the Lowcountry’s largest 4th of July fireworks show. The Festival is presented free of charge to the public with all general admission for attendees. Guests attending the Festival are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets, as there is no seating provided. Food trucks, beer and wine stations, and ATMs will be widely available. Children activities are available free of charge, including inflatable jump castles, games, the play area, the giant sandbox, and the water fountain. Beer and wine stations will be set up throughout the park, as well as ATMs for participants. For more information, please visit the website: http://www.northcharleston.org/Residents/Special-Events/4th-of-July-Festival.aspx

Festival performance schedule:
3:30 – Gates open
3:30 – Soul Fish (rock quartet)
5:00 – Blacklion (reggae)
6:30 – Dangermuffin (Americana)
8:00 – Funk Factory 5 (Mo-town/Top 40)
9:10 – Spectacular Fireworks show by Zambelli’s

When: 7/4/15 from 3:30pm to 9:45pm

Where: Riverfront Park-1001 Everglades Avenue, North Charleston

 

Patriots Point 4th of July Blast

 For those who want to enjoy the fireworks on the Yorktown, all Flight deck tickets are now SOLD OUT, but visitors are still allowed to watch the event landside and enjoy the celebration there! Parking is $10/vehicle.

When: 7/4/15 starting about 9pm

Where: Patriots Point40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

 

Columbia

Lake Murray Fireworks Celebration

Beginning at dusk (approximately 9:15 pm) South Carolina’s largest fireworks display on beautiful Lake Murray. Fireworks will be set off from two great locations: Spence Island and Dreher Island State Park. The show is choreographed to a patriotic concert that will air simultaneously on B106.7. The best places to view the fireworks are Dreher Island State Park and both parks at the Lake Murray dam. Bring a chair or blanket, picnics are welcomed- NO Alcohol Permitted at any of the locations.

Admission (based on park):

Dreher Island State Park– $2 for adults, $1.25 SC Seniors, FREE for children 15 years and younger (Gates close at 8pm).

Lake Murray Dam park sites– open until they reach capacity- $3 per car.

The walking path on the dam will also be open. (Fireworks DO NOT launch from the park sites at the dam).

 

When: July 04, 2015 from 9pm to 10:30pm
Admission: Admission Based on Park

 

Lake Murray Patriotic Boat Parade

 Get ready for the 26th Annual 4th of July Celebration on Lake Murray on Saturday, July 4th!! CCLMC is trying to break our all-time record this year with over 150 boats and inclusion within the Guinness Book of World Records! We hope that you and your family will join us and participate to make this a special year! For more information, please visit the website: http://www.lakemurraycountry.com/things-to-do/events/lake-murray-boat-parade

 When: July 04, 2015 from 12pm to 3pm
Where: Bomb Island, Lake Murray, SC 29072
Admission: Free, but if watching from Lake Murray Dam park sites admissions is $2/car

 

Slide the City and Capital City Beach Party!

 Columbia is Famously Hot, so we’re bringing you a Surprisingly Cool way to have fun this Independence Day while supporting 2 great causes!  Slide the City is a 1000 foot water slide that will go from Blanding & Gadsden to Hampton & Gadsden Streets.  The chosen charities SC Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the Celebrate Freedom Foundation will benefit each time you purchase a registration using the promo code FREEDOM, and you will receive $5 off! After you slide, go check out the Capital City Beach Party beginning in Finlay Park at 2PM. Water and Food vendors will be available for purchase at noon. Want to slide for free while helping out the charities? Sign up as a volunteer here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/slide-the-city-columbia-sc-volnteer-tickets-17332899168

When: July 04, 2015 starting at 11am
Where: Finlay Park-930 Laurel Street, Columbia, SC 29201

Greenville

Wells Fargo Red, White and Blue Festival

A barrage of colors illuminates the sky every 4th of July in downtown Greenville for the annual Wells Fargo Red, White and Blue, presented by AT&T. As one of the largest fireworks displays in South Carolina, the celebration features live music, food and a variety of family activities. A long-standing tradition, Wells Fargo Red, White & Blue represents a remarkable opportunity to support a free patriotic event that is enjoyed by the Greenville community. Sponsors have long recognized this event as a unique way to showcase their brand while enjoying hospitality and a celebration that only happens once a year. Wells Fargo Red, White and Blue presented by AT&T is Greenville’s premier 4th of July celebration, showcasing one of the state’s largest fireworks displays, sponsored by Bon Secours St. Francis Health System. The free event, scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2015, from 5 to 10 p.m., features live music on two stages, fun-filled activities in the Zaxby’s Kidz Zone and a variety of popular food and beverage vendors. The event takes place in downtown Greenville from Court to Camperdown Streets and will encompass Broad Street, from Laurens to Falls Streets, and Falls Park.

When: 7/4/2015 from 5pm to 10:30pm

Where: City of Greenville-Downtown Greenville

 

Red, White and Bluegrass

Red, White and Bluegrass is a FREE 4th of July Celebration in downtown Fountain Inn. This event will begin at 7:00 p.m. with two bands performing: Justice Family Bluegrass Band and the Upstate Senior Band. Fireworks will begin at dark. There will be food, Italian ice and craft beer for purchase. We will have a special time to honor all veterans at this event. For more information, please visit the website: http://www.fountaininn.org/scs

When: 7/4/2015 starting at 7pm

Where: City of Fountain Inn-Commerce Park-110 Depot Street, Fountain Inn, SC 29644

Admission: Free!

 

A Night with Darryl Worley

 Honoring our heroes. Gates open at 5pm. Music starts at 6 pm.

Admission is free for military & first responders (military personnel, retired military personnel, police, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians). Regular admission is $20 per car (maximum 6 people per car). **Going on now!** Soldier care package campaign to collect items for local soldiers serving overseas. For more information and to get involved, see website. Collection total will be announced at the Darryl Worley concert to honor heroes on July 4th! Concert tickets on sale NOW! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: http://charterspectrumamphitheatre.com/event/a-night-with-darryl-worley/

When: 7/4/2015- Gates open at 5pm, Music at 6pm

Where: Charter Spectrum Amphitheatre-861 Southeast Main Street, Simpsonville, SC 29681

Admission: $20/car

How do you plan to celebrate? We’d love for you to share suggestions with our readers!

Upcoming Charleston Summer Events

couple dancing on the beach at sunsetPhoto Credit: Harold Heindell Tejada

Summer in Charleston is unlike anywhere else.

There’s just some unexplainable shift in the air that brings locals and tourists out in droves to participate in uniquely Lowcountry events.

There are truly so many things to do and see this summer—it starts to get overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve decided to share these 5 upcoming Charleston events to make this an unforgettable summer!

Party in the Park

Bring your lawn chair and blankets to Mt. Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park for “Party in the Park” to kick back and enjoy the live music and food vendors put on by 103.5 WEZL. It’s always a great time!

Information:

Dates: every Tuesday night in June

Time: 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Cost: Free admission

Additional info: no dogs, coolers, umbrellas, or tents.

Yappy Hour

Bring your furry friend and enjoy live music and drinks, while the pups get to mingle! Yappy Hour takes place at the James Island County Dog Park.

Information:

Dates: June 16 and July 9

Time: 4:00-8:00 p.m.

Cost: $1 per person for park admission or free for Gold Pass Members.

Additional info: Outside food, alcohol, and coolers are prohibited. IDs are required for alcohol purchases.

Naturalization Ceremony at Middleton Plantation

An annual event to commemorate Arthur Middleton’s birthday, the Naturalization Ceremony has become a highly anticipated summer event. The ceremony on the stunning grounds of Middleton Plantation is a reminder of the varied makeup of our nation’s citizenry—whether through natural birth or naturalization—creating the cultural melting pot that is the United States.

Information:

Date: June 26

Time: The ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m.

Cost: Attendance is free with paid admission to the Middleton Plantation.

Additional Info: Following the Naturalization Ceremony, everyone is welcome to explore the gorgeous Middleton Place Gardens, House Museum, and Stableyards.

Shaggin’ on the Cooper

Slip on your dancing shoes and head to the Mount Pleasant Pier to dance the night away to some great live music! Enjoy the water view, bring your friends, grab a bite to eat and a beverage, and dance your cares away at Shaggin’ on the Cooper.

Information:

Dates: July 4, 18, and August 15

Time: Gates open at 7:00 p.m.

Cost: $10 at the gate/$8 for Charleston residents with advance purchase.

Additional Info: Outside alcohol and coolers are prohibited.

9th Annual Sizzling Southern Celebration

Looking for July 4 plans? Join Circa 1886 for the 9th Annual Sizzling Southern Celebration and enjoy music, lawn games, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar during cocktail hour. Next, the event will move inside, and guests will sit down to a delicious 3-course “Grill Dinner.” After dark, guests will venture outside to the cupola with a glass of champagne to watch Charleston’s firework show!

Information:

Date: July 4

Time: Outside cocktail hour begins at 6:00 p.m.

Cost: $75 per person, price excludes tax, gratuity, and additional beverages.

Additional Info: Reservations required.

Let us know your summer plans on our Facebook page!

 

Charleston Summer Checklist

Battery Park in Charleston, SC

I know we’re a little biased, but Charleston really IS the best city ever! With beautiful beaches, some of the best restaurants in the world, a happening nightlife, and a rich history, The Holy City has something for everyone.

Our team at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction decided to make this summer the best yet and enjoy all our city has to offer. We got together and came up with our ultimate Charleston summer checklist. Here’s to sunshine, good food, and great memories!

Enjoy the Battery

This one is a Charleston staple. Walk or bike the scenic Battery, and take in the beautiful view of the harbor. Battery Park, otherwise known as White Point Gardens, is lined with beautiful antebellum homes and historic statues and cannons, and is the perfect place to cool off in the hot summer months.

Beach Hop

We are lucky to have 5 beautiful beaches—why just pick one? Make it a mission this summer to go to each at least once. Pack a cooler, set up the umbrella, and make sure to drop by Poe’s on Sullivan’s Island to take a break from the sun and have a burger!

Golf at Muni

The City of Charleston Golf Course, also referred to as “The Muni,”  is an area favorite for golfers. With over 60,000 rounds played annually, its reputation as a golf destination is growing quickly!

Visit the Aquarium

Our city is lucky enough to be the home to the South Carolina Aquarium. It’s the home to South Carolina’s only hospital for sick and injured sea turtles. Tour the sea turtle hospital, and find out more about the incredible care that goes into rehabilitating these endangered species. Make sure to check out the fun, new exhibits, such as the Shark Shallows, as well!

Tour the Charleston Tea Plantation

The Charleston Tea Plantation is one of the few places in America to grow its own tea. Take a tour of the tea factory, and learn about the history behind the 127 acres on Wadmalaw Island, and taste different teas. The plantation also offers an educational trolley tour so guests can explore the scenic grounds.

Also on site is the Irvin House Vineyards, which produces wine and Firefly vodka. Stop in for a tasting!

Explore the Gardens at Middleton Place

A National Historic Landmark, Middleton Place is the home to America’s Oldest Landscaped Gardens—and it is b-e-a-utiful! Take a tour of the grounds, dine at the restaurant, explore the house museum, or even stay at the inn.

Dine at HUSK Restaurant

There are so many amazing restaurants in Charleston, but this one is hands-down one of our favorites. HUSK Restaurant lives by the motto “If it doesn’t come from the South, it’s not coming through the door.” The restaurant takes a modern, playful approach to Southern cooking. The menu changes daily to be able to incorporate local food, but let us tell you—everything is to die for.

Want to add your Charleston favorites to this list? Share below!

6 To-Dos for Your Charleston Staycation

fountain in charleston

Okay, so you’re a little bummed that you’re not jet setting somewhere else for vacation this year.

Not to worry.  People flock to Charleston for their vacations—so why not plan your very own staycation?

The Holy City has so much to offer. From the history and culture of Lowcountry to the beaches and restaurants, there are plenty of activities and fun to experience right here in town!

Here are  6 to-do’s on your Charleston staycation:

Step away from the housework

Drop the broom right this very second! Not leaving for vacation does not mean you should fill it with your to-do list. You’ve earned this time off. It’s time to relax and rejuvenate!

Go back in time

Who says you can’t be a tourist in your own town? Take a historical tour and learn more about the fascinating city we live in! Take a two-hour walking tour of Charleston’s Historic District with experienced guides. Tours depart from The Shops of Historic Charleston Foundation.

Catch up on reading

You know that list of books you’ve been meaning to read? Curl up with a cup of tea and read your heart out! Or stake out a live oak tree covered in Spanish moss to read under. Heck, read from sunup to sundown—it’s vacation after all!

Try a new activity

Experience our beautiful city from a new perspective! Sign up for a Stand Up Paddleboarding or kayak tour and enjoy the outdoors. Trying new activities and exploring new areas is a great way to spend your staycation.

Catch a tour

The Charleston Tea Plantation is one of the few places in America to grow its own tea. Take a tour of the tea factory and learn about the history behind the 127 acres on Wadmalaw Island and taste different teas. The plantation also offers an educational trolley tour so guests can explore the scenic grounds.

Also on site is the Irvin House Vineyards, which produces wine and firefly vodka. Stop in for a tasting!

Beach day

We are lucky enough to have 5 beautiful beaches, aren’t we? Make a day of it with your family or friends! Get out early before the crowds, pack a cooler, set up the umbrella, and make sure to drop by Poe’s on Sullivan’s Island to take a break from the sun!

Are you a local? Share how you’d like to spend your Charleston staycation on our Facebook page!

Places to Stay Fit and Healthy in Charleston

Every city has its “go-to” places to stay fit and healthy, and Charleston is no different. In fact, because of Charleston’s charm, the places shared below go above and beyond your average gym or healthy eatery.

Health and fitness have always been an important part of our world. From the use of natural herbs to thwart illnesses, to the ancient Eastern tradition of yoga, humans have a vast history that includes thousands of ways people lived and practiced healthy living.

However, in the recent decade, health has been front and center of our culture. Some would say the growth of the Internet led to the spread of important information about staying fit and healthy. And as a result of America’s deep interest in fitness and health, dozens of new health-focused businesses — as well as already established businesses — have successfully grown here in Charleston.

We’d like to highlight those below.

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OrangeTheory Fitness

OrangeTheory Fitness applies a unique approach to working out.

According to their website, Orange Theory is:

Backed by the science of post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), our heart-rate monitored training is designed to keep heart rates in a target zone that stimulates metabolism and increases energy. The result is the Orange Effect – more energy, visible toning and extra calorie burn for up to 36 hours after your workout!

Their healthy living claim is they can “produce 12 to 20 minutes of training at 84% or higher of your maximum heart rate.” And we know a lot of Charleston locals and guests would be interested in getting better results in less time.

To try this unique approach to working out, check out OrangeTheory Fitness: http://www.orangetheoryfitness.com/

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EcoFitness

EcoFitness is a locally owned and operated health club that offers:

  •  Indoor cycling
  •  Core Barre
  •  Group exercising
  •  Blue turtle yoga
  •  Personal training

When we looked at their website, we discovered they have a ton of different activities and dozens of instructors to choose from. If you’re looking for flexibility in your workouts, and want to make sure you have a trainer available to fit your schedule, EcoFitness is worth checking out.

View more about EcoFitness on their contact page: http://www.ecofitness.com/about/contact/

Alluette’s Cafe (Holistic Soul Food)<alt="Alluette’s Cafe"/>

Did you know there’s a southern food eatery in Charleston that’s both mouth-watering delicious AND healthy?

Alluette’s takes southern favorites and transforms them into healthier specialties by using natural ingredients. They also avoid frying their foods, yet they still find a way to make it just as good as the “real thing.”

Just about everything is homemade, including the ketchup and cole slaw (with no mayo). You can even finish off your meal with freshly baked vegan cookies — what a treat!

Hmm… farm fresh, vegan friendly, and tasty food. This one’s definitely staying on our list!

Find more info about Alluette’s here: http://www.alluettescafe.com/contact

Charleston Farmers Market

Last, but not least, on our list is the amazing Charleston Farmers Market. There was absolutely no way we could leave this one out.

At the Charleston Farmers Market, you’ll always find what’s in season. You can be sure to find the latest produce as well as live entertainment each Saturday at Marion Square. Come check it out!

Details and times included in the following link:

http://www.charlestonfarmersmarket.com/

Famous Landmarks in Charleston: Can’t-Miss Sights

<alt+"Bridge"/>Charleston is a city with a lot of history, so there are undoubtedly many inspirational landmarks to visit. The problem is you might not even know what to explore in your own backyard—it’s easy to overlook something when you’re used to seeing it all the time. You may drive by one of the sights below each day without even realizing it!   Get your notepad or Internet bookmarking tool ready, because we’re going to share some of Charleston’s can’t-miss and must-see sights.

Edmonston Alston House

You can tour this stately mansion built in 1825 seven days a week. Inside the home, you can discover historical family furnishings, silverware, books, and paintings that add Southern Charm and culture to this unique space. In addition to feeling like you’ve traveled back in time, you’ll also enjoy beautiful views of the harbor when you visit.   View more here about this landmark here.

Rainbow Row

This one is hard to miss, but you may not know the history behind one of Charleston’s most photographed locations. These 13 brightly colored houses were once the commercial hub in the city!   View more about Rainbow Row here.

H.L. Hunley Confederate Submarine

The history of this submarine dates back 150 years! In fact, this submarine was the first to sink another sea vessel. After years of research, scientists have finally figured out the technology behind this historic 8-person sub from the Civil War.   You can find more info about this amazing relic of history here.

South Carolina Aquarium

With over 60 different habitats and a 385,000-gallon tank, the South Carolina Aquarium lets you explore the ocean without getting your feet wet. It’s conveniently located on the Charleston Harbor, so you can enjoy the view as you’re checking out the river otters, loggerhead sea turtles, alligators, great blue herons, jellyfish, horseshoe crabs, pythons, sharks, and many more creatures.   View more info about the South Caroline Aquarium here.

Charleston Water Taxi

Enjoy this ferry service, go dolphin watching, or take in the harbor sites with the Charleston Water Taxi. Once you’re moving, you can get a new perspective of the USS Yorktown, historic downtown Charleston, and Patriots Point. The taxi runs every hour, so you can work a trip into your schedule whenever you want.   Get onboard with the Charleston Water Taxi here.

USS Yorktown

Get close to the 10th aircraft carrier to serve in the United States Navy. This 30,000-ton structure is parked conveniently in Patriots Point, located in the beautiful Charleston harbor. Once onboard, you can walk around, take a tour, and even enjoy a meal at The Fighting Lady cafe!   Get more info about the USS Yorktown and Patriots Point here.

There’s so much to do in Charleston!

Do you have a favorite place to visit in Charleston? Let us know in the comments. We’d love your help in locating more sights in this great city for locals and guests alike. Thanks in advance!   Photo Credit: Sky Noir

How to Organize, Prepare, and Host a Breast Cancer Fundraising Event

October is all about pink
Breast cancer fundraising events are a fantastic way to show support for someone you know who has breast cancer, or support awareness breast cancer awareness and research. Like most events, fundraising for breast cancer requires these important event planning steps:

  1. Organizing
  2. Preparing
  3. Hosting

However, unlike most events, breast cancer fundraising requires a few key, specific steps for raising money and registering your event with the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

(By the way, if you’re looking for breast cancer fundraising ideas, we recently wrote 10 things you can do to fundraise for breast cancer.)

In this post, we’ll cover the event planning steps you need to follow for success, as well as what you must do to properly host a fun breast cancer fundraising event for your friends, family, colleagues, or community!

Organizing

Before you host your event, you should determine the details and tasks required, so you can assign responsibilities accordingly. Some of the questions to answer include:

  • Where will the event take place?
  • When will the event happen
  • Who will you invite?
  • What’s your budget?
  • How much do you plan to raise? (setting a goal provides a target number to work toward)
  • How many people can you accommodate at your event?

After you’ve outlined the specifics of your event, register your breast cancer fundraiser with the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). Registering your event as soon as possible allows the Community Fundraising Team have plenty of time to help you. This team is a free resource from the NBCF, so it would be smart to take advantage of it!

Before moving onto the next step, preparing for your event, make a checklist of all the things that need to be done. This way, you can mark off tasks as you complete them.

Preparing

Once you have all roles assigned, a clear vision of your event, and a list of tasks required, it’s time to prepare for your breast cancer fundraising event. During preparation, your role is to keep everything running smoothly. Make sure the people you choose to help you don’t have any problems with completing their duties.

Another major thing to considering during preparation of a breast cancer event is promotion. Tap into friends and family networks to get the word out. Call local media outlets and local businesses for free promotion. Many local businesses will support your event and give you free promotion in their newsletters or regularly scheduled announcements.

Lastly, you can make it easy for people to make a donation by setting up an online donation page. The National Breast Cancer Foundation provides instructions on how to set up a webpage for donations do so here.

Hosting

As the host of the event, people will look to you for information. This is why it’s important to educate yourself on breast cancer prior to your gathering. The NBCF site has everything you should know about breast cancer, including the latest research, statistics, and news.

Be sure to thank everyone who shows up in person. They’ve taken the time out of their day or evening to come to your event — let them know how much that means to you!

To collect donations, you may want to put a note near the donation area (or include something in the announcements) that says any donation over $2 is tax-deductible, and you will provide them a receipt upon request.

If you follow these guidelines, your event will be a success!

Let us know if you have any questions, or if you’d like us to promote your next Charleston area event in our newsletter!