Making a Difference


I’m still digging out of sandy laundry, and crazed because my kids went back to school today. But I wanted to share a little of our personal life for a cause that’s dear to my heart. 



Mr. Sugarplum isn’t a total stranger around these parts…and his appearance is usually good for a few laughs.
 

My Edward
My “Handyman”

There’s no question he’s funny, and an entertainer to the core. I’ve mentioned it before, but Mr. Sugarplum was a professional musician “back in the day.” He toured with major artists for years before getting his own record deal. Finally, his dreams were coming true…he recorded a pop-rock record with all of his own songs, had a radio single on the Billboard Top 50, and was touring college campuses with his spankin’ band. (‘Spankin’ is his word; I’m not cool enough to talk like that.)




He was at the cusp. Musical success was at his fingertips. Then his dreams were cut short with a one-minute phone call…the record label had folded. A week later, we came home to find our porch stacked with 30 boxes of his CDs, posters and promotional materials. To say he was devastated would be an understatement.


But Mr. Sugarplum is a glass half-full kind of guy {heart}, and quickly discovered his favorite part of entertaining was connecting with people and impacting their life in some positive way. He also realized being home with his family was more important than all of it. So he went back to school for a Master's degree in Counseling, and is now a fully-licensed professional psychotherapist!
My Baby Daddy
He specializes in drug and alcohol addiction, and has flourished on his new path. He has such a way with people, and easily gains their trust. He helps them learn coping and life skills, and motivates them to change their thinking and behavior. The best part of the job is witnessing patients turn their lives around, earn their family's trust, and ultimately gain their own dignity back.

Untitled
Mr. Sugarplum is light-hearted and funny, except when talking about his work. He feels so passionately about helping people, and I see his pride when he tells me about his day.
"When I'm running a group session, the entertainer in me comes out and I'm actually trying to sell them a new life. When a connection is made, and I see their faces light up with understanding, I can literally see the hope move back in."
So why am I sharing all this about my man? Because Capella University (not my husband's school) and BlogHer, feel so passionately about work that makes a difference, that they're donating $1 for every comment left on this post, to the charity of my choice! Capella University is a rigorous and supportive learning community that transforms your education into work that makes a difference in the lives of others. At Capella, you will develop the knowledge to help others reach their potential. Your degree will change more lives than just your own. Read examples of the great work their alumni have been doing here, or see what their community has to say on the Capella Facebook Page.
* * * * * *
To help raise money for The Alzheimer's Association, leave me a comment about someone who's made a difference in your life, or influenced you in some positive way. Maybe a counselor, a teacher or a nurse? Or tell us how what you do makes a difference to others! BlogHer will donate $1 for every comment, up to $500!
* * * * * *
Donation Rules:
No duplicate comments. You may receive (2) total donation entries by leaving up to two comments in response to the prompt on this post. This promotion is open to US Residents age 18 or older. The Official Rules are available here. This promotion runs from 8/27/2012 - 9/30/2012. Visit the BlogHer.com Capella page to check out more blogger stories and for more donation chances!

Leave a Comment

150 Comments

  1. Cheryl wrote:

    Your husband's story is so inspiring! Thank you to Capella University and BlogHer for their generous donations to such a worthy cause. I hope you get tons of comments!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  2. Kriss wrote:

    I can't think of a better reason to leave a comment!!! First I all I loved reading your husbands story! Secondly, the person that has influenced me the most is my mother in law. Never in my life have I had someone love me so much (besides my husband and kids). She encourages me, is always real in her advice and opinions, lifts me up so I always feel my best and most of all considers me a real daughter. When I adopted my children she really helped me when I had moments of "I might go crazy" when we got two children overnight. Lol.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  3. Katie S. wrote:

    Someone who has inspired me to be better than who I am is my father – he has always pushed me to accomplish goals and find success, even when I could not see the point in it myself. I constantly turn to him for advice, especially in the professional world now, and I hope I can be just like my father to my own children someday. He has made my an incredible difference in my life.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  4. My great grandfather was the most loving, supportive, genuine, and involved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. I stil feel inspired by him and strive to be like him in my life and with my family.

    Thanks for sharing about Mr. Sugarplum today!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  5. Beautiful, inspiring post and great lesson on making lemonade from lemons. My friend, Linda, has been the most inspiring person in my life. My mother had Alzheimer's. Thank you for opportunity to raise support for this debilitating disease.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  6. Loved hearing about Mr. Sugarplum, Cassie!

    I'm inspired by, and so proud of, my mother-in-law. Several years ago, she began tutoring disadvantaged kids one day a week in the Glenwood neighborhood in Greensboro, NC. Over the course of a few years she realized how much more these children needed to have a decent chance in life. Most are from single family homes, are on public assistance, know someone currently incarcerated, and have heard gunshots on their streets. Few have passed their EOG's or even own a book.

    Last year, Regina, felt called to start a charter school for these kids; knowing that without a group of caring people focused on their academics, they would have very little hope for the future and would most likely repeat the patterns of generational poverty. With her vision and the help of a lot of people who have donated their time and resources, Hope Academy was born. The children started their very first day of school last Monday in an old converted, but newly renovated, church.

    You can read more about the school and the wonderful things they are doing here: http://hopeacademygso.org/

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  7. Katharine wrote:

    Great choice of charity! My grandmother and her sister both had Alzheimer's and it is so sad to watch. I also love that you shared your husband's story – very inspiring. As for someone who made a difference in my life, my high school cheerleading coach always stands out in my mind. She showed us everyday how to be dedicated, intelligent, and athletic women. She knew how to balance the fun and the work.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  8. Can't think of a better reason to leave a comment! Loved hearing your husband's story. The person who has inspired me the most over the years has been my father. Always believing in me and showing me how to follow my dreams by following his own.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  9. I think it's awesome that he was able to take a huge disappointment and turn it around into something positive–a whole new direction in life. What an inspiration. 🙂

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  10. Sheri wrote:

    I can't think of a better organizaton than Alzheimer's Association – we lost my mother-in-law 5 years ago and it was a heart breaking loss. Your husband sounds awesome – you are truly blessed 🙂

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  11. I'm doomed to have Alzheimer's…got it on both sides of the family…so, quick, find a cure! I've had lots of people make a difference in my life and I agree with your husband's quote, it has so much to do with offering the gift of hope.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  12. Brandi wrote:

    I enjoyed reading about your husband. His story is so inspiring.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  13. I love your husband's story (and am dying to know what his Top 50 single was!) and I'm sure he's helping many people with his compassion and enthusiasm. I am inspired to be a better person by my friend and neighbor, Alice. She's the most compassionate, caring person that I know–literally an angel on earth! I love her and want to be more like her.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  14. E. wrote:

    What a great reason to comment! I'm so luck to be surrounded by inspiring people, from my parents – who tirelessly support me – to my fiancee who is incredibly dedicated to us and his work, and all mo co-workers in education!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  15. Elizabeth wrote:

    What a wonderful story about your husband.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  16. Great story. Both my grandma and my nana have Alzheimer's and my grandma in particular is in the late stages and it's so sad, such an awful disease! My sisters have made such a difference to me – always so supportive. Great post sweetie xx

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  17. What a great story! I'm so happy he has found something he is passionate about. In my opinion, he is still a ROCK STAR, even if that means he's not rocking out at work every day. 🙂

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  18. What a special man you have!! I've had many people in my life who "saved" me from something worse. From the person who realized I was growing up in an alcoholic house and fixed it, to the person who invited me to church and taught me how important Jesus is in my life and for my salvation, to my children who make life worth living. God has put many people in my life who make me want to get out of bed in the morning. Your husband sounds like he's that kind of person to many people! God bless him! And thank you for the great post! ~Linda

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  19. Amy wrote:

    I've been touched by so many wonderful teachers, but none more so than my parents & grandparents. They have given me more wisdom that I could ever imagine!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  20. Such a great reason to leave a comment! I love that you and your husband are still so in love after all these years!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  21. Thanks for sharing his story – so inspirational! Now I've got that – What a Man song in my head- even though I can't remember who sang it? 😉

    I've been inspired by my mom – she one of the very best people I know!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  22. Unknown wrote:

    Love you and that crazy hubby of yours… great blog, my friend!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  23. Wow Cassie. This is a beautiful post. I knew he was a rockin' band man but didn't know the sad ending of it. What a great guy to stay so positive!! Lucky girl you. xx

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  24. Dharma wrote:

    I am so lucky and blessed to have had an involved, engaged and loving father. He changed his dreams midstream too and became even more inspiring…kinda like your Baby Daddy there. 🙂 Cheers to you and your cause.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  25. Rachael wrote:

    Wow, I loved hearing about your husband's work and his love of helping others! I am a social worker with older adults and I too love helping others!
    I have been influenced by the amazing women in my family! My mother, grandmother, and sister are the strongest and most kind hearted women. I love them all and have learned so much from each of them.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  26. Molly H wrote:

    Wow, your man is a rockstar. Love this post.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  27. Loved your husband's story. I had a therapist in college that helped me turn my life around so i am very thankful for people like him 🙂

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  28. Mary wrote:

    This is amazing, Cassie! What a great idea!

    I'm thankful to have had many people influence my life for the better. I can think of a couple teachers from high school, two from college and one from grad school that shaped me as more than just a nerd. They believed in me and what I was about.

    But then there's my family, who all stand out among a crowd for various reasons.

    For the past three years, though, it's been my boyfriend, Andrew. He always understands me, even when I'm going a little nuts. He loves me for me, and lets me be myself. He's a blessing!

    Thanks again! 🙂

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  29. Rod Cruz wrote:

    I read every post, but I seldom comment… And I just couldn't resist today. I'm so excited about your donations, and I'm making another comment to max them out!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  30. Rod Cruz wrote:

    Having said that, nothing makes me happier than your posts about the family. You always put a smile on my face, Cassie!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  31. Sarah wrote:

    Way to go Mr. Sugarplum! My mom is an at-risk counselor at 2 elementary schools AND a sorority house mom. She's beyond amazing and awesome at helping people!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  32. What a man you have! I'm feeling devastated for his dream. But he is so great to pick up the pieces and move on to make a difference. You must be so proud of him. I'm sure you make a great pair!

    My Grandmother is so inspiring. She had five kids, ran her own business out of her home, and did it all while looking gorgeous and taking care of herself. She always puts others first and never complains. She has Alzheimer, and I'm thrilled that you picked this organization to give to.
    xo,
    Abby

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  33. Leanne wrote:

    What a wonderful and inspiring story!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  34. Ana. wrote:

    I'm a glass half-full girl too, so kudos to Mr. Sugarplum!

    Ana from Protugal

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  35. Lauren wrote:

    My grandfather. He worked so hard to provide for his family and was such a fun, inspirational man. He had Alzheimer's and died last July. Each year my family walks in his memory.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  36. Kudos to Mr. Sugarplum!

    J.
    door251.com
    http://www.facebook.com/Door251

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  37. Anonymous wrote:

    I have recently graduated a master's couseling program and also work at an addiction treatment facility. Love to hear about passion in this field!
    I've had quite a few mentors along the way that believed in me even when I didn't.

    Lindsey

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  38. Angi Abercrombie wrote:

    Mr Sugarplum is so FUN! And with that said, I guess my husband would be my biggest inspiration! Just by watching him grow as a christian dad and a husband while dealing w/ the ever changing economy he demonstrates amazing inner strength. (not to be confused with pride) But true dig down deep inner strength that inspires me to love deepr, play fair and happy and smile no matter what…because Jesus loves me!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  39. Lauren wrote:

    God bless 🙂

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  40. This may sound cliche, but my husband is by far my biggest inspiration. You could say he saved my life: when we met I had just escaped from a horrible relationship and was on a quick path to destruction. His friendship, patience and love helped turn me around. He's a great partner (I'm not claiming the man has no faults – he does) and inspires me to be a better person, to make my dreams a reality and to drink more water. 😉

    I love this post, and I love that its helping to make a difference in the lives of those around us who need our help.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  41. Kimberlee wrote:

    Great cause. My mom is my biggest supporter and best friend!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  42. This is awesome!! My mom has been a huge surce of inspiration to me. She has been vey involved in UNICEF throughout my life. The fact that children of the world are hunry, cold, and scared makes it impossible for her not to help. I have been involved in many many fundraising efforts and it really has shaped me in such a powerul way. Her motto: Always say yes when you can. Powerful words!!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  43. Jennifer wrote:

    Your husband sounds like an amazing man!! My inspiration came from our local Chick-fil-a's public relations manager. I met her through the restaurant but she became an amazing friend and source of inspiration long after my fast food visits. She was a cancer survivor and the way she lived her life was that of someone who didn't take one second for granted. In the end, the cancer came back and though she fought just as hard as she had previously, on October 30th her work on Earth was done and He called her home. I will never, ever forget her and neither will the hundreds of other people she inspired.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  44. Nothing is better than loving what you do for a living. My inspiration comes from a co-worker, she is always encouraging me to follow my passion and calling. She has two kids and has a million things going on, but always has a smile on her face

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  45. As usual, I love this post! I was raised by a single mom until I was 12 & she married. Although I resented my step-dad for most of my teen years, I know I wouldn't have turned out the same without him.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  46. Great post, great cause!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  47. It is amazing how people find a second career! Great post!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  48. Wendy wrote:

    Hope you raise lots of money! I would say my kids have inspired me to be a better person. Knowing that they are learning how to act from me makes me more cautious of my words and actions.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  49. mindy wrote:

    i'm excited to comment for a cause. you're family is lucky to have such a wonderful husband/dad!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  50. Celeste wrote:

    What a wonderful story! Your hubby sounds like a great guy. To this day I wish I would have taken a different career path and gone into counseling rather than PR…I guess this post shows me that it's never too late 🙂

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  51. Meg wrote:

    Thanks for sharing! so glad to help

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  52. lindley wrote:

    There are too many inspirational people in my life – my dad, my generous, loving husband, a CASA mom who escaped her horrible meth-dealing family to provide a stable loving home for her daughter against enormous odds, the people in my life who gracefully and bravely struggle each day with disease. Im blessed by the people in my life. This is such a worthy post, Cass…………but, not one shot of Mr. Sugarplum w that LONG hair???! Come on!!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  53. Anonymous wrote:

    What a special post!! Great cause to support.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  54. sfitzg2 wrote:

    Loved this story!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  55. What an amazing post and a worthy cause, one that strikes close to home for me.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  56. W wrote:

    Love this! Your husband rocks, literally! I have been in those group sessions and even thought myself of going into that profession. God bless him! My best friend is also a psycho therapist and she is so amazing to me, I know she helps her patients every day!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  57. Your hubby has an amazing life journey so far. My grandma is the one who has inspired me so much- she is always there for everyone, helped raise me as a young girl and took me to college with her when she was taking night classes and I was just a few years old. Hope you get lots of comments on this post!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  58. Anonymous wrote:

    Gosh your guy is just amazeballs! Lucky duck! My inspiration is truly my hubby too – he works so hard and helps me teach my beautiful boys that every day is special. I'm totes gonna keep him!!! Love your blog, Casie!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  59. Rebecca wrote:

    This post was such a delight to read! I already love your blog and now love it even more for opportunities like this! Thanks for letting your readers participate in such a great cause too!!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  60. What a cute story about your husband!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  61. Anonymous wrote:

    this is wonderful! I am continually inspired by the people in my life. my mother, my father, my husband

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  62. How wonderful. I think the people who've made the biggest impact on my life are the teachers I had through high school and my professors in college. It's such an interesting time in life and I had some really great role models!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  63. amwhite85 wrote:

    What an inspiring story! To hear of others giving back makes my heart melt! Thank you for sharing.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  64. My parents have made the biggest difference in my life. Thanks!

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  65. KOB wrote:

    My mother has truly made the biggest difference in my life. She raised me as a single mom from kindergarten all the way through college and I would not be the woman I am today without her sacrifice, her influence and her spirit.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  66. Anonymous wrote:

    My family inspires me daily with their loyalty, kindness and love for one another. This disease has recently impacted my family and it is wonderful that you and Blogher are raising money for such a deserving cause.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  67. Anonymous wrote:

    Thanks for making a difference. My mother, who has early onset Alzheimer's, has and continue to be someone who makes a difference in my life. She teaches me so much a out love.

    Posted 8.27.12 Reply
  68. mcmurphy wrote:

    Congrats! As an MFT in practicum I can really relate to your baby daddy 😉

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  69. Sue Blake wrote:

    Enjoyed hearing about the hubby! Wonderful cause.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  70. Vel Criste wrote:

    AWESOME! Your hubby seems like a wonderful man! your lucky to have each other! 🙂

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  71. 1. I LOVE Mr. Sugarplum. If you weren't already happily married to him, I get dibs….and now we're back to seriously considering this sister-wife business.

    2. As if his heart & love for his family weren't enough, the guy looks so natural whilst seductively crouching in a tree/hanging a mirror in plaid jammies. Wha-what!!!!

    3. In all seriousness, I adore you for blogging this cause. For me, Mr. FC is the single most influential person in my life. He has truly taught me how to embrace life, live in the moment, & find the humor in everything. He is the sweet star around which so many lives orbit.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  72. Anonymous wrote:

    My grandmother, from a hard working farming family, she made everything work to perfection. She was so selfless. She was a hard worker and did it all.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  73. Kerry wrote:

    That is a wonderful story, your husband sounds amazing. I'm also proud of my husband for his work with our community. He has volunteered for the last 5 years as a mentor to underprivileged high school students through Community for Youth. We've seen two of his mentees head off to college and he's just about to start off the next school year.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  74. mordechai wrote:

    I have a wonderful teacher who had influenced my Parenting and in that way the world will be a better place

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  75. Anonymous wrote:

    Your blog is on my favorites,your husband is doing Gods work! helping people change is one of the most important jobs ever! I have a friend like that who impacts peoples lives he changed mine by telling me to go to AA 20 years ago and now my son is going to AA when you help one person you help a whole lot more kind of like how I tell people about the wonderful bloggers and how I changed my house ha! God Bless you and your family

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  76. Some people's worlds only keep turning because of the work people like your husband do. Thank you for sharing his story and allowing us to do some good by speaking here too.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  77. presh!

    xoxo
    Jill

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  78. Lisa wrote:

    What a lovely post. My husband is the person who has influenced me the most, and stood by me through some difficult times.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  79. CCL wrote:

    My husband is a giver himself and motivates me as well….

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  80. kathy wrote:

    Loved your hub's story. I, too, am a substance abuse counselor by way of a huge corporate high profile job. There are no words to express how gratifying counseling can be- when it does not make your heart break! It is a calling- certainly not for the money! Know the contributions will help a great cause. Thanks for your blog.. enjoy it a lot! Kathy b.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  81. Anonymous wrote:

    I hope I'm not too late but out of love and support for my aunt, I just wanted to thank you for supporting such a great cause. Means a lot 🙂

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  82. Beth wrote:

    You are one lucky lady, Cassie! Now…where can I buy his CD:)!!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  83. Anonymous wrote:

    Thank you for supporting Alzheimer's. I have 2 friends with spouses who battle that disease. They are both only 51! Thank you for sharing your husband's story. It was such an inspiration that I needed to hear. P.S. love your blog – thank you for sharing!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  84. Thank you for sharing this. I personally appreciate it because my dad has Alzheimer's. We just raised over $2,000 during the Alzheimer's Walk this weekend at the Detroit Zoo. I admire my dad because every person that has met him throughout his life cannot say enough good things about him. He's truly and sincerely interested in those he meets and wants to help everyone, even now, when we should be helping him.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  85. Great story, great cause!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  86. Just had to leave one more comment. Love your husband's story! I'm the safe home liason for our elementary school this year… any chance he might have some good ideas in the elementary world for anti-drug awareness? 🙂 thanks!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  87. Anonymous wrote:

    Thank you for supporting a great cause. We've had several people suffer from this in our family.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  88. Anonymous wrote:

    Good work. Your hubs looks to be a keeper!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  89. Your husband sounds like a winner! That Twilight shot still cracks me up! And I love this idea! My mother has definitely been the biggest influence in my life. I strive to be half the mother and woman she is.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  90. Also my father. He was a one man Red Cross in his small south Louisiana home town after Hurrican Katrina. He showed up with food and water 5 days before the "official" disaster relief folks. (With Hurricane Isaac looming it reminded how awesome my dad was during that difficult time.)

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  91. Amy wrote:

    My husband has made a huge difference in my life…he's taught me to be a better person and that I deserve more and better than I thought. Thanks for sharing your husband's story- I'm sure that he is really great at his job!!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  92. Anonymous wrote:

    Wow! I love this idea for helping out a charity (and I'm tickled that it's Alzheimers). Your post cracked me up and warmed my heart, all at the same time!

    Nikki

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  93. Your hubby sounds fantastic! I had the greatest professor in my last year of college who inspired me to become a teacher myself. So now I teach the tiniest learners and can't think of a better job for myself!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  94. Having worked in "his" field in homeless medical delivery, I think he has chosen the 'perfect' field for his gifts! I had a mentor who did the same and I loved watching him 'connect.' The field of recovery needs all the help it can get!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  95. Julie wrote:

    I'm so glad you picked Alzheimers disease! Your husband sounds amazing and those pics cracked me up. So many people have touched my life…but I'd say my husband and his unconditional love has had the biggest impact.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  96. Kathy wrote:

    Hi Cassie, Your husband sounds very special. I was thinking about it & could come up with quite a few examples but I think that no matter what profession/position you are in it is possible to help people if you really want to. Some professions clearly make it easier to have the opportunity to do so but I think it is the "person" who truly cares who make the most difference. Even folks who never encounter another person in their profession can make an impact if they care about what they do because it always comes back out & around eventually. Thank you for choosing The Alzheimer's Association. By the way I never comment but I LOVE your blog.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  97. That is so awesome that they would do that!

    My kindergarten teacher changed my whole life! My mom worked I had 6 siblings needing attention and I often went to a babysitter that watched way to many children. My Kindergarten teacher always made it a point to make me feel loved and special. She live in my home town and every time we see each other we always hug and talk forever.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  98. Alecia wrote:

    Wow…how do I pick just one?!?! I would have to say my great grandma, who raised me. She made a huge sacrifice to take me in and care for me and I know because of that, I'm the person I am today.
    Thanks for sharing about your hubby!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  99. This is such an amazing story and I'm so excited to be able to help the cause gain another dollar through my comment =)

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  100. Anonymous wrote:

    I have been blessed with so many inspirational people in my life. Who comes to mind right now is someone who struggled with Alzheimers. She was a wonderful lady at our church. She was one of the first women to own a business in our City (long time ago!) She was actively involved in the Methodist church all over the world. And she always had the most wonderful shoes! Thanks Bettye for being an inspiration to so many!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  101. Rosterhome wrote:

    Your husband's story is so inspiring! Thank you to Capella University and BlogHer for their generouslots of comments!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  102. JaimeBurke wrote:

    Great story and a great cause

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  103. My brother made a huge difference in my life… so much so that when I get married next fall he will be performing the ceremony (we're not getting married in a church, so why have a stranger when I can have my best friend).

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  104. Megan wrote:

    Amazing story!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  105. oliveoyl64 wrote:

    I am very selective about who gets into my inner circle of friends. Be it IRL or cyber,I have many great people that I can turn to for a shoulder to cry on, to share in triumphs, or to kick my tail when needed. I cannot single one person out because they all bring something to my life and I hope I do the same for each of them.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  106. Hooray for Capella U and double Hooray for Mr. Sugarplum! Love the photo of Daddy lying in bed & babies smiling at him….family–that's what it's all about. I was my Mom's caretaker for many years. She was always someone I could look up to and know what to do by her example. Even in her later years, when Alzhiemers took over her mind, her courage kept me going.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  107. Anonymous wrote:

    Thanks for sharing your great story regarding your husband. We need so many like him. Thank-you Capella University and BlogHer for your generous donations. The person to most inspire me…. there are SO many, but the bottom line is they all were parts of showing me how to find joy in the Lord and know that I can find true happiness through HIM.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  108. Anonymous wrote:

    Thanks for sharing your husband's story. My grandma was my inspiration.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  109. Jen wrote:

    What a great thing! How nice of Capella University and Blogher.

    I think my first preceptor as a nurse inspired me. She was so caring and encouraging. She shaped me to be the nurse I am today.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  110. Anonymous wrote:

    Love all of it!

    Jill

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  111. Anonymous wrote:

    The lunge photo is still my fave! You two are very lucky for your beautiful family.

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  112. I'm blaming you for my makeup being a hot mess right now (c; That is such a sweet and inspiring story about your husband, what a fantastic example of true character…when life hands you lemons…(c: The charity you choose is also close to my heart because my grandma (who, incidentally, is one of my inspirational peeps!) suffers from Alzheimers and dementia, it's heartbreaking…anything that goes towards that cause is *awesome* in my book!

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  113. Great post and choice of charity! <3

    Posted 8.28.12 Reply
  114. Awe that is the sweetest! He is so cute too Cassie! What a sweet family! <3

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  115. kather0712 wrote:

    My sigma kappa sisters! The Alzheimer's Association is our philanthropy!

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  116. kather0712 wrote:

    My gradmother-in-law battled Alzheimers diease!

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  117. Katie wrote:

    First time commenter on your blog…but for such a great cause!

    Thanks!
    Katie

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  118. Dede wrote:

    This totally rocks!! Love it!

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  119. Anonymous wrote:

    You and your husband are adorable! Thanks for sharing.

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  120. bridgetgo wrote:

    Great story! So glad he found his calling in life!

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  121. Lisa Mende wrote:

    I love this! What a great way to give back Cassie!

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  122. I LOOOOVE THIS!!!!!! Mr.Sugarplum has such an AMAZING story!!!!! He has an infectious energy that just radiates off him! He is SO full of life & such an incredible guy!!!!! What an awesome post Cass!!!!! You two are an amazing couple!!!!! Much much love!!!!! xo

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  123. Cammee wrote:

    Well now I am in tears. My brother died 3 years ago from a drug addiction. He was an inspiration to me. He fought so hard to change this one major flaw he had. I am grateful for people like your husband who work in this field. I know from experience it can be depressing and frustrating, but also very rewarding. My brother was an amazing person, brother, father, son and friend. He was so kind and tenderhearted and I miss him everyday.

    My grandma died in November after suffering far too long with Alzheimers. See why I'm a boobing mess after reading this post?!

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  124. Anonymous wrote:

    Great post!

    Posted 8.29.12 Reply
  125. Connie wrote:

    What he's doing is a great thing. But to do it with the passion you describe is beyond awesome!

    Posted 8.30.12 Reply
  126. Hi Cassie! Wonderful post, thanks for sharing about your husband's important work. I love reading your blog all the way from where I live in São Paulo, Brazil. I love your genuine way of writing about yourself and your life and hearing about your home decorating ideas. Best wishes, Sabrina

    Posted 9.1.12 Reply
  127. Gina Rhodes Haynes wrote:

    Love you guys! Y'all are awesome. miss you!

    Posted 9.3.12 Reply
  128. Love this post! And fabulous charity opportunity. Thank you for sharing his story and for partnering up for such a great cause!

    xo,
    Jen

    Posted 9.3.12 Reply
  129. Anonymous wrote:

    Awesome!

    Posted 9.3.12 Reply
  130. Anonymous wrote:

    My grandmother passed away from Alzheimer's, so this organization you've chosen is near and dear to my heart. And I'm a crazy weirdo who loves hearing about your life, because I think of you as a real friend instead of just the blogger behind one of my fave blogs, so I always love these little glimpses of the "real" life stuff – and a big thanks for your husband's work choice, it takes the heart of a good person to have the necessary compassion and sympathy to help people overcome difficulties in life. Thank you for this post! Hope you all have a great week!
    Jen M.
    mccluskeyja@yahoo.com

    Posted 9.4.12 Reply
  131. Anonymous wrote:

    the two people that impacted me and inspired me was my great grandmother and my grandmother. they are both gone now and i miss them terribly. It was always, me my mom, my grandma and great grandma… two of my three children had the pleasure of knowing both of these wonderful women but my great grandmother passed when i was seven months pregnant with the last baby. my grandmother was in the early stages of alzheimer's. your husband sounds like an amazing man. thanks for all your inspiration.

    Sommer Mullins
    sommermullinsrn@yahoo. com

    Posted 9.4.12 Reply
  132. Angel wrote:

    What a great story of how life's changes in our path can be inspiring. Thank you for sharing. Loved hearing about Mr. Sugarplum!

    Posted 9.4.12 Reply
  133. I love this story and the cause hits very close to my heart. Thank you!

    Posted 9.6.12 Reply
  134. A comment for a charitable dollar? Sounds good to me 🙂

    Posted 9.7.12 Reply
  135. Helen wrote:

    Such a greatly positive post on why your husband rocks your world 🙂

    Posted 9.8.12 Reply
  136. Anonymous wrote:

    Great post!

    Posted 9.26.12 Reply
  137. Cindy wrote:

    I knew I had to check this out when I saw your link back to this post! Your hubby sounds wonderful, but I am even more grateful to see your charity of choice. My mom is 68 and we have been struggling with Alzheimer's for a few years now…in fact I blog about my experiences on Mondays. Thanks for this post!

    Posted 9.26.12 Reply
  138. Kate wrote:

    What an inspiring story! My biggest inspiration is my mother. She is supportive, loving and hardworking! She motivates me to be a better person everyday! Without her I would be lost!

    Posted 9.26.12 Reply
  139. Beatiful, great post.

    Posted 9.26.12 Reply
  140. Anonymous wrote:

    great story…great cause!

    Posted 9.26.12 Reply
  141. Tara wrote:

    Yes, love this story and love this cause – thanks for posting. Though of course you've driven us crazy wanting to know what band/song waas his!

    And I would say watching my Dad learn to live with my mom getting early on-set Alzheimers (at the age of 50) and how well he loves her through this disease is super inspiring – and makes me double glad to comment for this cause.

    Posted 9.26.12 Reply
  142. Becky wrote:

    My grandma had Alzheimers.

    Posted 9.26.12 Reply
  143. Anonymous wrote:

    My mom has Alzheimer's, and I never miss a chance to do even the smallest thing to help the Alzheimer's Association further the all important work they do. As to who influences me,that would again be my mom…not only prior to her disease, but now more than ever, seeing the courageous way she deals with this new reality in her life. Thank you for the opportunity to aid this vital organization…many caregivers like me would have a much more painful time navigating this awful disease without their help. Lynn in FL

    Posted 9.26.12 Reply
  144. Such a wonderful story!

    Posted 9.27.12 Reply
  145. Jenna wrote:

    Beautiful Post!

    Posted 9.27.12 Reply
  146. For whatever reason, I keep missing a lot of your posts on FB. I only see some go through (same for most blogs I follow that way), so I missed this post. Glad I saw a link to it. So sweet. I love the way you talk about your man. And, I love that he developed a new passion and life with the counseling. I had been super into that for a while myself – in the form of youth ministry and trying to get teens on track. Great post!

    Posted 9.27.12 Reply
  147. Lauren wrote:

    My Grandmother had Alzheimer's. I would never wish this disease on anyone!! Your husband is a very inspirational man, you are one lucky lady 😉

    Posted 9.27.12 Reply
  148. Jackie wrote:

    I'm new to the blog but was lead to this story and just have to comment! Beautiful

    Posted 9.27.12 Reply
  149. Anonymous wrote:

    Sounds like a great man!

    Posted 9.29.12 Reply
  150. Anonymous wrote:

    I am pretty sure you and your husband just inspired me.

    Posted 12.17.12 Reply