Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Well, I did it

Last night after work, I took a few last pictures of my beautiful wedding dress - my most favorite thing I've ever worn - zipped the garment bag and drove to David's Bridal (cheapest shipping I found) to have my dress shipped off to the Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation. I took Dan with me because I wasn't sure if I'd get emotional, and I'm glad I did, because I did. As much as I know that donating my dress to a worthy cause was the absolute right thing for me to do, I got teary leaving the store, and leaving my dress behind. Dan grabbed me in a big hug and told me how proud he was of my generosity, and that meant so much to me, because I think he's one of the most generous and selfless people I know. I still get a little lump in my throat thinking about it. The overwhelming support here and on Facebook and the Twitter have been wonderful - thank you for that. It also made me feel good that the consultant at David's Bridal took the organization's info so they could have it on hand for other potential donors.

As much as I like to believe I'm not a sentimental person - and really, I'm usually not - that dress symbolized an amazing day in our lives. I felt beautiful in it, and I had one of the best days of my life wearing it. However, I love knowing that now someone else may have the chance to feel the exact same way about it. Not to mention, the proceeds from its sale will grant final wishes to those battling the fight of their lives. Hopefully someday, no one will have to fight that battle.

In case you're wondering, I decided against having a piece removed from the train. I called a few cleaners and tailors yesterday and it would have been quite pricey for me just to have a 3" strip of fabric. And I decided not to wait until next week because I wanted to just get it done. Like ripping off a band-aid.

Even if you're not wanting to donate your dress, I urge you to check out Making Memories and the Pink Envelope Project. There are a number of ways to contribute, and I truly think that breast cancer awareness and research are worthy of our time and attention.

5 comments:

donatelli98 said...

So proud of you!!

Amanda @ It's Blogworthy said...

I'm also very proud of you!! some bride out there is going to have the time of her life in that dress and you'll both be happy you were able to help those cancer patients...good job Brooke!

Shana said...

I'm so proud of you. That was an amazingly selfless thing to do.

Anonymous said...

What a fantastic idea! I think ripping off the band-aid was probably the best method. The memories you have of the dress and the pictures will be just as special as having it in your possession.

Unknown said...

I am so proud of you. I had tears in my eyes too when you told me you had sent it off. Still now, thinking of that special day, brings a smile and tear to my face all at the same time. I am so proud of you Brooke. Love you!