Phoenix Society Japan

In 1991, the Phoenix Society Japan for Burn Survivors and Their Families was founded because of the passion of a few good men who believed there was a need for support in the burn community. One of those individuals was Mr. Masayuki TEJIMA, who was introduced to the founder of the original Phoenix Society (Alan Breslau) through reading a book.

Once Mr. TEJIMA met with Alan and learned about the mission of the Phoenix Society, they created an organization of their own. The current President of the Phoenix Society Japan is Mr. Masaru NISHIGAKI, who himself was severely burned. It was such an honor to be able to meet both men and to learn of their history from the very beginning.

My time with the Phoenix Society Japan was spent at the gorgeous Hotel Nikko Tokyo and included 22 participants from around Japan. The afternoon commenced with an hour presentation given on both my personal burn story and the current activities of the Phoenix Society for which I represent. Mr. TEJIMA was kind enough to handle all translation both in print and as I presented. His daughter Aya also assisted as the members in attendance started to share with me their individual and very personal stories.

We engaged in an Q & A session, I was presented with a gift and flowers, followed by photos with the Tokyo skyline in the background, a very nice buffet dinner, and introductions by each attendee...which were so thoughtful and touching. Many of those in attendance had watched the Fuji TV production of "Amazing Stories" on which Joe and I were featured, and several believed it was destiny that we should meet. Tears were shed, there were moments of laughter and though I bowed with respect...a hug was shared with each individual.

We will never forget the time spent with the Phoenix Society Japan, and to say Arigato Gozaimasu does not even come close to expressing the appreciation Joe and I feel for these amazing and thoughtful people.

Please enjoy these photos!:

As I was giving my presentation with Mr. Tejima translating from the left side podium.

President Mr. Nishigaki presented me with a plaque on behalf of the Phoenix Society Japan and to the right in the photo is Mr. Tejima.

I bow in appreciation for the flowers being presented by Naomi, burned 61 years ago.

Naomi and me

Joe and me with the members of the Phoenix Society Japan

The Noro family, whose daughter was burned in a bath when she was four years old.

Emi is a beautiful young lady who was also burned as a baby and today has a fabulous smile!

Left to Right; Aya, Mizuho, me, Joe and Masayuki

Mr. International delivering a toast to the entire group, which was very nice.

Joe and I before we departed the Hotel Nikko Tokyo.

Warmest wishes,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

The Beautiful City of Tokyo!

Konnichiwa (Hello) from Tokyo, Japan! Joe and I crossed the date line and arrived in Japan on the evening of January 4th. Our hotel is located next to the Imperial Palace and is simply spectacular!

We already love it here and have met the most gracious and elegant people. Dinner was at our hotel and hosted by the founding member and true force behind the Phoenix Society Japan for Burn Survivors and Their Families. Mr. Masayuki Tejima along with his lovely wife and daughter are so very nice and we are sincerely looking forward to spending more time with them and the burn survivor community later today.

Mizuho, Aya, Masayuki TEJIMA, along with Joseph and me

In fact, I will be giving an hour presentation to burn survivors from around Japan, they will be giving me a presentation, and then we are sharing in a celebration this evening. What a dream I am living...

Arigato Gozaimasu (Thank You) to Mr. Tejima and his family, the Phoenix Society USA and Japan, my fabulous Harvard classmate Mr.Mori Sato, and all the individuals who have been willing to help me make this a reality!

Love to you all,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

Color Day Themes: Ornate Oriental

Jen is currently traveling in Asia, so we thought this "Oriental" inspired color-day would be appropriate.  The underlying color to this theme is red, which can be as subtle or as bold as you want. The key to this theme is the details: go for the take-out boxes, over-sized lanterns, paper cranes, chopsticks, and fortune cookies.  We realize we're blending cultures, but you can pick and choose what look you want to go with. Just remember to be bold, and when in doubt, go for take-out!

Images from: awaysoiree, Biz Bash, Claire Pettibone, Favor Ideas, Jacques, Priceless Weddings, Wedding Paper Divas, Worldly Weddings, Wedding Dazed