Michael's Origin Story

Not all heroes wear capes. Sometimes they wear a size 2 storm trooper boot and spider-man toque. This little hero is my youngest son and his name is Michael. He is 6-years-old and a self-described "helper."  It's a title that he takes abundant pride in - as well he should.

Two weeks ago Michael was home just getting over strep throat (while at the same time fighting off a chest infection) when he came to me and stated that he was going to, "...help fund-raise for kids with cancer." My initial reaction was, "aw, that's sweet of you," and my mind went to the Terry Fox run or other school-based activities, but that's not what was on his mind. Apparently this is something that he had been thinking about for a while because he already had a plan. He is going to make bracelets and sell them and then give the money to sick children.

"Okay, so how are we going to sell them?" I asked naively.  "We make them and then people buy them." Oh...right...well don't I feel silly?

So, I admit, this is a great idea! Except...I'm not sure just how to go about getting these trinkets to the people who want to buy them. So far we've figured out a name, a product and a price ($2), but logistically there are a few issues. I've already mentioned the one about how to get the bracelets to the people who want to buy them. Do we sell them door-to-door? What about the people who have said they'll buy one who don't live close? Do we mail them and if so, how much is that going to cost, and who covers that cost? Etc., etc., etc.

Where else does a mom turn to in times like these, but Facebook! I've had some wonderful suggestions and recommendations, and I will keep everyone posted on how they work out. In the mean time we are busy making bracelets and have been appreciatively accepting donations of beads, strings and clasps.

And so, with more questions than answers, we'll learn as we go - "Michael Helps" begins.