Public speaking about CF

[anonymous]

I have been asked to speak about CF (I am a parent of a child with CF) at a charity event. The event is to be held to raise funds for research and support services. I have never done anything like this...aaargh scary... I know some things I would like to share with the guests but I am not sure what to go with. I do not want to do it unless I can make a difference in heightening awareness, helping to raise funds, and hopefully making a diffeence to our hospital system so that our kids don't have to wait weeks for a bed.

I loved reading Ry's brothers speech, Jamey's piece titled Not Your Ordinary Boxing Match and Sherri (Abby's Mum) you had some wise words also.

If anyone has any advice, tips or suggestions on what helps make something like this succesful, I would appreciate your comments.

N

 

[Allie]

I have been told I turn a phrase well, so if you want someone to help get our thoughts out in am eloquent fashion, I would be more than happy to work with you. You can email me at RyAllieAhava@yahoo.com No pressure just offering my help.

 

[Emily65Roses]

ALLIE'S ARROGANT!!!!!!!! *runs around screaming and laughing*

I kid, she really is a good writer. Hehehe. I would request her advice, always a good idea. <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif" border="0"> <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0">

 

[JazzysMom]

I would definitely take Allie's offer. She not only can word it well, but will be sure to cover different aspects of CF that can/will give a true impact!

 

[anonymous]

Thanks Allie .. Emily and Melissa.

I agree Allie is just what I need.. and highly recommended at that!! I will be in touch real soon and look forward to it.

Many Thanks
X N

 

[coltsfan715]

hi there,
I have spoken a few times for the local chapter of the CFF. Normally it works really good if you can say a little about what CF is and then put a face to it. When I usually speak I normally give a little background about myself, then I say I have CF and what it is in a nutshell, then I tell how it affects and has affected me growing up (hospitalizations, CFRD, lung collapses and all that). I also try to make it clear that if it weren't for people donating their time and money to the CFF that many of the advancements that have made my life better and longer wouldn't be available. That they people that donate can never be thanked enough and so on.

It is very nerve racking to speak especially about something so close to your heart, but I think that makes the speech that much better. I am sure you will do great. Let us know how it goes.

Good Luck,
Lindsey

 

[NoExcuses]

I think whatever you do, it will be great!

You really can't go wrong - your insight, experiences, and just being there will make a huge impact.

 

[Scarlett81]

If Alllie offers the input-all I can say is TAKE it! You'll be getting the help of a future pulitzer prize winner.

I'm really proud of you for having the opportunity to speak about this illness. I hope it all goes well. You have a lifetime of experience with it-anything you say will be right-as long as you speak from the heart.

 

[Abby]

Nene, is that you?

If left my e-mail in the Great Strides post where you asked for it, but here it is again. Feel free to e-mail me, just put something regarding cf in the subject so I don't delete you. e-mail is: dsengel@charter.net

Hope to hear from you soon.

I have a feeling that Allie is much better with words than I am, but still willing to help you out if I can.

 

[AttyMom]

I spoke at the Massachusetts annual gala 2 years ago. When I worked with the committee to plan the speech it was suggested that I generally keep it upbeat while also making it personal. I also kept it to about 2 1/2 to 3 minutes. Hope that helps.

Good luck! =) I'm sure you'll do great!

 

[jenhum]

I usually speak about once a year at a fundraising dinner..it is so hard! I usually have no problem with public speaking at all, but I struggle with nerves every year before this speech. I am a person that usually stresses how CF has affected me in positive ways, b/c I'm a happy cheerful person. I usually keep all the negatives to myself. However, at these things you're going to raise more money if they see how scary and rough this disease is, so don't sugarcoat it. Let them know how hard it is, and also let them know how the progress in the last few years has affected your life (or your child's life) and the importance of their money to continue making that progress.

I used Jamie's boxing match analogy one year (of course I gave him credit!) and it went over wonderfully. They loved it. There is something about an analogy that people can relate to- it helps them really remember and process what you are saying. Good luck, just speak from your heart and I'm sure you'll be wonderful!

 

[anonymous]

I write well too if you need some assistance. In fact, I have written a speech for a CF function in Kansas City, where they even payed for my plane ticket out to speak. So I suppose I could spin it a little and even say I am a paid writer.

Let me know if I can help. Good luck.

Grendel
lbstillwell@yahoo.com

 

[anonymous]

I am a horriable speller, though.

Grendel

 

[shauna]

I've done a few speeches about CF as well at various events...if you want me to throw some ideas around let me know, otherwise I'd go with Allie's help because she's probably about 5 gazillion times better than me at writing!

If you do want to mail me though, feel free, my address is shauna_65s@hotmail.com

Good luck with the speech- you'll be fine <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">