Letter From Japan

As we are finalizing the last minute details of the itinerary for Europe…I had to take pause when a touching letter arrived for me from Kazuo Sakashita, a burn survivor from Saitama-ken, Japan. I was touched by Mr. Sakashita’s story during our visit in Tokyo, as he was burned many years ago and spent a large part of his life feeling very alone. He shared with me how he watched the Fuji TV Amazing Stories episode in December, which featured my journey as a burn survivor to the Mrs. International crown. The message spoke to him, and he knew it was God’s plan that we should meet. Tears streamed down both of our faces as his words were interpreted, but I can assure you I felt his message long before the interpreter opened her mouth.

Here is the letter sent to me by this lovely individual who lives a world away:

Dear Mrs. Sarah,
Thank you very much for your kind card, which I received on my birthday. It was first time getting birthday card from Mrs. International. I was so moved when I received it. Your encouraging words really cheered up me and I could feel happiness. I am deeply grateful to you.

Well, if you do not mind, I want to send you a picture which your husband took. When you come to Asia, please do come to Japan again and see us. We will always waiting you. I wish you and your family all the good luck.

Sincerely yours,
Kazuo Sakashita

My hopes and dreams of honoring this crown and all that it represents have exceeded any expectation I could have imagined. Meeting individuals like Mr. Sakashita throughout the world has been the most unbelievable journey. I am humbly filled with gratitude to God, to all of the people who have graciously supported me, and I am so very ready to see what treasured memories Europe will hold! I hope you will follow my blog, because we have some incredible events planned in; London, Paris, Frankfurt, Geneva, Rome and Istanbul!

With an abundance of love and appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Phoenix Society Board Retreat in Chicago

In a previous blog posted back in September, I wrote about my personal views of the importance and responsibility of serving on a board of directors. This post is going to take those views a step further and highlight the value of a board retreat.

The weekend before Thanksgiving, I flew into Chicago for a Phoenix Society Board Retreat, which we have done every year around the same time and in various parts of the country. The reason for such a meeting is to give directors the ability to focus on an organization with a deeper and more thoughtful contemplation. Sometimes it is simply difficult to accomplish the leadership responsibilities of a board within an hour or two structured meeting. This is the opportunity to brainstorm and consider strategy or changes in strategy, as well as, any other topic deemed important and timely to the organization.

Directors usually travel to a location that is neutral, central if possible, and will have minimal distractions. Agenda and document preparation is important, and the more prepared everyone is when they arrive, the better the outcome. It is also imperative, in my humble opinion, that the attendees find the time to enjoy themselves and develop as a cohesive group outside the meeting space, with a nice dinner, an activity, or some other fun event. We usually host a dinner with the directors and as many staff or management as possible, which has helped to build a very nice working relationship.

This may be quite elementary information to many of you, but unfamiliar to others…and I would challenge anyone interested in participating in a charitable or community organization to view the responsibility as an honor. If you are passionate about the cause; the time you spend, the energy you give, and the financial commitment you make to the best of your financial ability will come back to you in spades!

Best wishes to all,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Asian and Australian Tour Announcement

In the spirit of inclusion, this blog is a reprint of the press release announcing an international tour of Asia and Australia. If you are reading this blog, believe in the values and mission of the International title, have an interest in the goals stated in the release, or simply want to have an excuse to see the world and meet some phenomenal people, please know that you are invited!

MRS. INTERNATIONAL 2012, SARAH BAZEY,

ANNOUNCES INTERNATIONAL TOUR THROUGH

ASIA AND AUSTRALIA

 

Join Sarah on this journey of connecting people around the world

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(Minneapolis, MN) – November 20– Mrs. International 2012, Sarah Bazey, announces the release of her itinerary for an international tour of Asia and Australia. The January 2013 tour will highlight Bazey’s three stated goals of; honoring the Mrs. International title, sharing a message of living a heart-healthy life, and connecting the burn survivor community worldwide.

The tour is scheduled to kick off in Los Angeles, California on December 31, 2012, and will include visits to Tokyo, Japan; Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China; Manila, Philippines; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Sydney, Australia; and Honolulu, Hawaii, before returning to Minneapolis, Minnesota, on January 19, 2013.

Bazey’s Harvard Business School classmates are especially recognized for their assistance with hosting and development for the tour, while the American Heart Association, World Heart Federation, and the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors have also offered valuable support and encouragement.

For specific Asian and Australian tour itinerary details and event information, preliminary May 2013 European tour details, and information about how to participate in either tour, please visit www.sarahbazey.com.

Tour Goals:
Upon being crowned, Bazey stated, “As Mrs. International 2012, it is my privilege to represent the title and all that it embodies; elegance, integrity, commitment to family, accomplishments of married women and a devotion to charitable causes. It is often said that a crown can open doors, but it is my hope that this very special crown will open borders.”

Beyond the crown, the true mission of the International Pageant System is to make a difference in the world, which is exemplified by its national alliance with the American Heart Association and its “Go Red for Women” campaign. Bazey will share the message of living a heart-healthy life throughout the United States and with World Heart Federation members abroad.

Bazey, who was severely burned in a helicopter crash in 1994, will also promote her platform of burn awareness and education on behalf of the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. “It is my mission to connect the burn survivor community throughout the world – including the family and friends of burn survivors and the medical community – to help others as they journey through the pain and fear associated with these injuries,” she states.

Sarah Bazey:
    A Harvard Business School graduate and an accomplished business professional, Bazey is the owner and president of Minneapolis-based Simplex Construction Supplies, Inc. She proudly serves as vice president of the National Board of Trustees for the Phoenix Society, a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering burn survivors through support programs, education and advocacy.

Since 1995, Bazey also has served as a volunteer to help burn patients at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota.  In 2001, the Phoenix Society launched its Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery (SOAR) program and Bazey has continued to volunteer at the hospital through the SOAR program.  Additionally, she has been a keynote speaker for the Phoenix Society’s World Burn Congress, which was held this September in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This year’s conference featured co-Board of Trustees member, J. R. Martinez, a burn survivor and veteran of the Iraqi War and winner of ABC Television’s 2011 season of Dancing with the Stars.

Mrs. International Pageant System:
The Mrs. International Pageant is the only platform-based system and is owned and operated by International Pageants, Inc., which also operates the Miss International and Miss Teen International competitions.  Mrs. International showcases married women from ages 21 through 56 and includes their husbands as an integral part of the event.  For more information visit www.mrsinternational.com.

Warmest Regards,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Celebrating Life!

If you have ever had a life changing event, good or bad, you most likely know what it is to wake up on the anniversary of that particular day…and simply know deep down today is the day. For me, the day is October 26th…and on this day 18 years ago, I was 28, engaged to be married, owned a growing construction materials company, was on the ice daily coaching some talented figure skaters, lived in a loft in downtown Minneapolis, and shared my home with my Bichon Frise puppy named Rockwell.

On that fateful day, I chose to charter a helicopter to fly over a construction project with the hope of giving the workers a unique perspective of a significant project on which they had worked so hard. The rides were well received and everyone was enjoying the views from above…until the last ride of the day, when there was room for one more to fill the five passenger Bell Jet Ranger. The guys waved me over and I climbed into the rear center seat, put on my headset, and felt the excitement that only a helicopter can galvanize.

As we flew over a newly constructed bridge, the pilot saw the power lines that had just been strung. He made a decision to fly under versus over the lines, which I credit for keeping us alive, regardless we became entangled. The lines wrapped around the post and cables connecting our rotor. Unfortunately, the cables broke causing our rotor to disconnect from the helicopter. The turbulence was immediate and violent. With an obstructed view looking forward, I had no idea what had happened, but the pilot instructed us “hold on, we’re going down!”

Our momentum carried us another quarter mile with extreme jarring and shaking and I knew this was going to hurt…and hurt bad. I never thought I was going to die. We were seated upright, and to me that somehow meant survival. Microphones were connected to each headset, and I can hear the nearly unanimous “Oh my Gods” as clear today as if I were still seated in the cabin.

We came down hard on the brand new concrete pavement, skidded into the ditch and crashed into the temporary concrete median barrier. All four men were out of the wreckage instantly, however, I remained inside unable to get my leather work gloves under the buckle to release the lap constraint. I looked up and saw the bright blue sky…thinking where did the roof go? In that very moment, the helicopter exploded…with me right in the center…where it was completely quiet and eerily serene. I was blown backward and found my legs coming up over my head in the bench seat to which I was still confined. I could see the red flames and black smoke with a towering plume climbing into the sky…in an instant, I realized the flames were coming around the bench seat from both sides just as I was able to free my seat belt and somersault out of the seat. The flames caught the back of my jet fuel soaked turtle neck, and I knew my clothing was on fire. It never dawned on me…that in fact, I was on fire.

The Stop, Drop, and Roll message ran through my head, therefore, I stayed on the ground rolling…only to look back at the dry vegetation igniting behind me. I screamed for help with all that I had, knowing at this point that I was in real trouble. The pilot jumped on my back, causing severe burns to himself, and put out the flames. I recall this entire event in slow-motion detail and could share with you the acts of kindness and heroism that I witnessed on that afternoon, but I do not want to lose sight of the meaning of this message.

When I wake up on this day, October 26th, I have felt a range of emotions. I have been filled with sadness, I have felt guilt, I have been consumed with anger for my loss, but mostly…I celebrate…I celebrate the fact that I am alive, I celebrate that God gave me choice…and I fought to survive. I celebrate all of the loved ones who were there for me, supported me, and love me even with my flaws. It is important to share with you that I don’t judge those feelings or consider them to be unhealthy; I simply feel them, acknowledge them, and accept to the best of my ability.

As I sit here writing this blog…I can’t help but thank God and those that mean so very much to me for being there every step of the way, for helping me fight, and for encouraging me to share my life’s journey with so many of you…

With unimaginable gratitude and love to you all,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Video Release - Regions Hospital Burn Center

When someone is severely burned, they are often cared for initially by a community hospital or medical center that would then refer them to the nearest “Burn Center,” which specializes in the care of burns. Fortunately, because of the location of my accident I was taken directly by ambulance to Regions Hospital Burn Center located in St. Paul, Minnesota, on the afternoon of October 26, 1994.

Prior to that day I had never been hospitalized, broken a bone, or known what it was to experience real pain. Even without previous experience, I knew that I was being given the best care available. The burn team, which is comprised of; doctors, nurses, therapists, social worker, psychiatrist, and even the hospital Chaplin where with me every step of the painful journey. Unfortunately, they often had to inflict more pain on my body than a person should ever have to endure, but they did it with the best of intensions. I often think this is the cruelest part of being burned, as if the event itself is not enough, the road to recovery is comprised of torturous surgeries, therapies, and an emotional roller coaster ride that challenges the strongest of individuals.

Regardless, I want you to know there is a positive and amazing message to be shared, as a burn center is filled with dedicated angels, who do what many could not do, and I will be eternally grateful to each and every member of my burn team for their role in saving my life. Therefore, it was my privilege to be asked to participate in a video for promotion of the burn center, encouraging community care facilities to send their patients to Regions.

If you would like to view the video, here is the link…and it is my pleasure to share with you that it opens on a current bridge project for which my company is supplying materials to Lunda Construction Company of Black River Falls, Wisconsin:  http://files.bolstercreative.com/regions/burn_center/

Best Wishes,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

“The Best Ever You Show “ on Blog Talk Radio

If you have never listened to “The Best Ever You Show” on Blog Talk Radio…this is your invitation to do so! The fabulous Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino, Founder & CEO (aka Mrs. Maine International 2011), was an absolutely gracious host, and I could not have enjoyed our second hour long interview any more if I had tried! The first interview was in June, and I was a guest on the show as Mrs. Minnesota International 2012. We agreed (or maybe Elizabeth agreed and I giggled) during the live interview to re-unite if I was fortunate enough to capture the Mrs. International title. ..which is exactly what we did on September 16th.

Prior to the show going “LIVE” Elizabeth informed me we were selected for Today’s Picks section, which meant we were featured on the homepage of Blog Talk Radio, giving the show even more exposure. Not only was it my pleasure to share a very conversational interview with such a lovely lady, but the power of social media and its ability to connect people continues to amaze me!

I want to say “THANK YOU” to Elizabeth, her staff, and Blog Talk Radio for giving me an opportunity to promote the Mrs. International Title, the American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” campaign, and the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. If you would like to know more about Elizabeth, who has quite a story to share herself, please feel free to checkout her website:  http://www.elizabethhamilton.info/

If you have an hour - get a cup of java or tea, sit back, relax and I hope you enjoy our interview!
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/besteveryou/2012/09/16/sarah-bazey--mrs-international

With love and appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Phoenix Society Founder Alan Breslau

The mythical bird called the Phoenix was the inspiration for a society focused on rising from the ashes and being reborn more brilliant than before…just as the legendary bird. In 1963, Alan Breslau was extensively burned in the crash of a commercial airliner, and he went on to become the Founder of the Phoenix Society in 1977. Today the organization is the largest of its kind, and though it is based out of Grand Rapids, Michigan, it has reached the burn community around the world.

Alan worked tirelessly to expand the burn survivor network from an office in his home in Pennsylvania, and even with modest resources was able to touch thousands of lives. He retired in 1998 and the Board of Trustees worked hard to raise the necessary funds to hire and Executive Director and developed a strategy to fulfill Alan’s dreams.

It was my privilege to visit with both Alan and his lovely wife Delwyn during the World Burn Congress earlier this month. Alan also signed a copy of his book “The Beauty of Disfigurement,” which I am currently reading with awe and respect. The Breslau’s now reside in New Zealand, and I hope to connect with them in early 2013 during a tour as Mrs. International that will take me to the neighboring Australia.

With love and appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

JR Martinez

What can I say...JR Martinez has many titles; War Hero, Brot Monroe on the ABC daytime drama All My Children, Champion of ABC’s Season 13 Dancing with the Stars, one of People Magazine’s Sexiest Men Alive, and now his favorite title of all Daddy to little Lauryn Anabelle! It was such a treat to sit down with JR in the “Green Room” back stage before he was introduced to the highly charged audience in Milwaukee just over a week ago!

When I think back to the first time I met this amazing individual, it was just after JR stood up at “Open Mic” and shared his story of surviving an explosion of an IED while serving as a United States Army infantryman in Iraq. He had not yet become a soap opera star, I am not certain if he knew he could dance, but he might have agreed with the sexiest man alive title…seriously, he had one of those personalities that just made you take notice and believe you were in the presence of someone special.

The Phoenix Society is fortunate to have JR as a director, and he was honored by the association with the first ever 2012 Advocacy Award. This award recognizes the significant contribution of time and positive exposure, thereby bringing greater awareness, support and understanding of the burn survivor community as a whole. I personally want to thank JR for sharing his time with me and smiling for the camera!

Best wishes always,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

World Burn Congress

If you are reading this blog, you might be wondering, “What exactly is a World Burn Congress?” Well, please allow me to share with you…that it is a beautiful experience to witness individuals who have overcome unimaginable adversity and pain as they find support, encouragement, peace, hope, and unconditional love in a safe environment.

With fellow burn survivor and friend Tony

Just last week, more than 800 burn survivors, caregivers, fire fighters and burn care professionals joined together for the 24th Annual World Burn Congress in Milwaukee, WI. Though I am certain this event means something a different to each attendee, I will share with you my perspective as a board member and burn survivor.

Local visitors bureau capturing testimonials from WBC participants

Starting with my favorite part in all of the conference, which is called “Open Mic.” This is a period of time devoted each day to an open forum where anyone in the room can raise their hand and be given as much time as they need to tell their story. There is no judgment, no repeating of stories outside the room, and boxes of tissue on each and every table.

The strong and courageous Jonathan

Aside from open mic, there are seminars on how to apply makeup to add eyebrows where they no longer exist, groups gather to discuss how to respond to strangers who stare, a large ballroom is filled with exhibitors who are devoted to burn prevention and care, a silent auction raises funds to support programs and a youth program that gives young people a chance to feel as though they belong without anyone pointing out their scars. The speakers and panels that educate and inspire go on for days, awards are given for those who make significant contributions (including a very special guest this year, who I will be blogging about shortly), and the event always ends with a fabulous party.

Not only is Ariel a survivor, but a future Miss Teen International

Also, this year there was a once in a life time opportunity for me to participate wearing a different “hat,” literally…my crown! I was so thrilled to spend hours posing for pictures with attendees and signing autograph cards, which was so very special for me. As a keynote speaker last year following my selection as Mrs. Minneapolis International, many of the Phoenix Society members cheered me on as I became Mrs. Minnesota International and were over the moon when I was crowned Mrs. International!

Signing Autograph Cards with local CBS News filming

 

Congratulatory hug from Laurie

 

Congratulatory kiss on the hand from the charming Richard

 

As a board member there is a business side to it all, therefore, I am always tuned into the number of attendees, the value they receive for the registration, how well the conference runs, and trying to assess the level of stress on a staff that gives 100% and then some. A board meeting is always conducted at the beginning of the event, and an annual membership meeting is held near the end with an update to all members of the financial, as well as, overall condition of the organization.

It takes a village and both Grant and I know to survive

The 2013 World Burn Congress will be held in Rhode Island, and it will be the 10th Anniversary of the Rhode Island Station nightclub fire, which some of you may remember from the news coverage it received in 2003. It is certain to be a wonderful event, and if you…or someone you know could benefit from attending a World Burn Congress, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Phoenix Society at www.phoenix-society.org or send me a message.

Best wishes always,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

The Importance of Board Membership

For many of the women who participate in the International Pageant System, serving on a board of directors for a given charity or non-profit organization is a responsibility for which we have decided to commit. This level of service and passion regarding charitable work is one of the many attributes of the Mrs. International Pageant that motivates women from around the world to seek this prestigious title. My personal road to serving as an officer on the National Board of Trustees for the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors started years ago.

In 1995, just months after I was released from the hospital (after being severely burned in a helicopter crash), I found myself volunteering to meet with burn victims and family members in an informal manner. I was compelled to connect with these people who were in pain and scared, and to assure them they could become survivors.

As the years progressed I was introduced to the Phoenix Society, and specifically the Survivors Offering Assistance in Recover (SOAR) program, which was a new concept in 2001. SOAR was developed to connect those who had endured a burn injury with those in the process of treatment. I quickly volunteered at Regions Hospital to be trained. Shortly after I completed the SOAR initiation, I was asked to join the National Advisory Committee for the organization and went on to become the Co-Chair of the committee.

A year later Amy Acton, Executive Director of the Phoenix Society formally asked me to submit my résumé to the National Board of Trustees for a position on the board. I accepted the invitation, knowing that there were serious commitments involved in participating on such a board; significant travel, financial commitment, and a dedication of time and energy to serving the burn community. The board voted affirmatively and I was promptly elected as the Chair of the Investment Committee. Soon after, I was elected as Treasurer of the organization, and last year was elected as the Vice President.

I am sharing the journey of serving a non-profit with you, because for those who may not know, the commitment is very real and very important. Serving on any board, for that matter, is an opportunity to lead, to make change when necessary, and a responsibility that should not be underestimated. Fortunately for me at the age of 46, I have had many opportunities to serve on boards of various types; corporations, charities, non-profits, foundations, professional organizations and community groups. In nearly every case I have chaired committees, served as an officer, and on almost each board served as President or Chairperson of the Board. Regardless of the type of board, I have consistently taken my role as a leader to heart.

I could not be more honored to be affiliated with the Phoenix Society, which is the largest organization of its kind, serving the burn community throughout the world. Both the members of this board, and the staff who get the job done every day, are exceptional individuals who have a sincere passion about the mission of this organization. In the center of this photo is the founder, Alan Breslau (seated in the wheelchair) , to his right is our Executive Director, Amy Acton and I was thrilled to stand to his left. The remaining members of the Board of Trustees who were in attendance at our meeting in Milwaukee, WI on September 12, 2012 are (left to right); Don Cheley, Billy Leahy, Vickie Pritchett, Tim Sendelbach, Pat Horan, Tony Burke, Lorraine Carli, Peg Paul, and Dr. Lynn Solem.

Submitted with respect and appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Regions Hospital Burn Center Video Filming

Within a matter of minutes, my office was turned into video film set; with lights, cameras, interview chairs and crew. This was the start of several hours of filming for a promotional video being produced for Regions Hospital Burn Center.

As a former patient of the burn center, current volunteer, and as Mrs. International 2012, the hospital staff asked me to participate in their production, with a focus on my perception of care provided and support available for burn survivors. The interview afforded me an opportunity to talk about the helicopter crash, the burn center and staff, returning to my life, giving back, the Phoenix Society and the incredible work done by all the women who compete in the International Pageant System.

Following the interview, we moved filming onto a construction site to which my company is currently supplying materials for seven bridges along Interstate 694. We parked on top of a decommissioned bridge directly over active West bound traffic, which gave us a panoramic view of the new bridge construction. Our customer, Lunda Construction of Black River Falls, WI, was kind enough to participate in the filming and I want to thank Dennis, Bruce and Mike for their time and effort.

Once the crew was satisfied with the shots from the bridge, we drove to Regions Hospital and set up three more action scenes, including a SOAR visit with a current patient named Jill. Though we were supposed to be acting the roles of a Survivor Offering Assistance in Recovery with a burn patient, the meeting quickly became a live SOAR visit and Jill was able to ask me the types of questions any person who has just been burned would ask. It was my pleasure to meet Jill and I wish her the very best in her road to recovery.

Shooting this video was a wonderful experience! Once the video is complete, I hope to share it with all of you.

Best wishes always,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Burn Awareness & Education with the Phoenix Society

The Phoenix was a mythical bird that lived 500 years and when it was consumed by flames, only to rise again from the ashes more beautiful than before. The scarlet and golden Phoenix bird is synonymous with rebirth or recovery and is often connected to healing and peace.

In 1963 a man named Alan Breslau was severely burned in a commercial airliner crash, and in 1977 he founded the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors with a vision of ensuring that every burn survivor, their loved ones, and caregivers have the necessary support on their road to recovery. Today the Phoenix Society is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan and is the largest organization of its kind with a core belief of offering support from someone who has truly “been there” and can provide the hope needed for recovery of mind, body and spirit.

As a burn survivor myself, I started volunteering at Regions Hospital Burn Center in St. Paul, MN just months after my release from the hospital in 1995. My first act of volunteering came quite unexpectedly…as I was cleared to return to work and on my way to the office, when I heard the breaking news that a 19 year old male was severely burning in an aviation accident and taken to Regions Hospital. I turned my vehicle around and drove straight to the hospital without any thought. It was as if my body took control. When I arrived, I found a distraught mother, father and twin sister in the waiting room.

The hours I spend talking to them about my own experience and the care I was given gave them hope. They were afraid and rightfully so, however, being able to see me stand before them, show them my scars, and my determination to move forward with my life bonded us forever.

The Phoenix Society later implemented the Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery (SOAR) program in 2001, for which I was promptly trained. I was later asked to serve on the National Board of Trustees and today hold the position of Vice President of the Board. It has also been my privilege to promote the efforts of the Phoenix Society through speaking engagements with the World Burn Congress, American Burn Association and various Community Organizations both domestic and abroad.

Giving the keynote address at the World Burn Congress in Cincinnati, Ohio in September of 2011.

More than a million burns occur each year in the United States. Burns do not discriminate and can happen to anyone at any time. Unfortunately, many burns are preventable and it is also a mission of the Phoenix Society to advocate for prevention whenever possible.

As I shared with the fabulous Mrs. International Pageant Class of 2012 and their loved ones, I sincerely hope anyone reading this blog who knows a burn victim or may find themselves suffering from a severe burn injury will not hesitate to reach out to the Phoenix Society www.phoenix-society.org or contact me directly mrsinternational2012@gmail.com.

With love and gratitude,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012