Maureen’s Hope “IBelieve” 2017
Maureen’s Hope created a new event last year, “iBelieve” to bring the community together for encouragement and positivity.
President of Maureen’s Hope, Susan Bertrand says this year’s event will have diverse speakers for various topics. She says that people will be able to connect with these speakers because they are opening themselves up and becoming vulnerable as they share their stories.
In between the speakers, the event will feature ballet dancers and a LeMoyne College a cappella group to help lighten the mood.
One of the speakers, Bryan Morgan, will be holding an interactive session that deals with how motion and exercise can change a person’s mood. Morgan says that when you wake up in the morning and know you are going to have a good day, your body language will show it. He also says that if you are slouched down, with your head hanging, you are going to be in a negative state of mind.
Tim Conners will also be speaking at the event about overcoming challenges. At 15, he was diagnosed with cancer, losing his eyesight as a result, almost dying and then coming back from it all. He is now about to graduate Ithaca College with a 3.9 GPA and plans to climb the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, after graduation.
Conners says that he received so much support when he was sick that he wanted to give back. As he climbs Mount Kilimanjaro, Connors says, he will be raising $500,000 for charity organizations that not only helped save his life but helped him keep going.
IBelieve: An Event For Inspiration and Hope will be held this Sunday, April 30th from 3pm to 6pm at the Palace Theater. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit maureenshope.org.
Maureen’s Hope was originally created by Susan Bertrand in memory of her sister Maureen. It is a not for profit that offers direct support and assistance for community members who are facing the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.