Thanks to Roseann and some other great friends who keep me up to date with information regarding my famous parents.
Scroll down in this link and have a look at the last person to be in the running for White House Chef. Yes, that is the butter cow lady, my mother. And by the way, the first person pictured...who is Tom Seitsma's pick for the job... well, Tom, the food critic of the Washington Post is a friend of Steve and me.
Now, I don't know if my mother will be cooking at the white house, but it is true, she and my father were supporters of Barack Obama at the Iowa Caucuses way back when. She also sculpted our future presidents bust out of butter. While I am excited we have elected Barack Obama as our 44th president, it is with concern of being contacted by the secret service, that I say, "my mother has his head (butter sculpture bust) in the freezer." Good to know that it is no longer there and we have safely elected this man without any spilt milk.
Check out the following links: My mom and dad starred in a video in support of his campaign September 27, 2007.
http://iowa.barackobama.com/page/community/post_group/IowaHQ/CJQ7
My father was part of Barack Obama's pre-election infomercial. the 4th video segment at click 3.53.
Video:
Joe and Duffy Lyon of Tama, IA talk about why Barack Obama inspired "hope" - in the form of a large "O" made out of butter.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid353515028/bctid1270735621
Pictures of mom and dad at the farm: http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/samgrahamfelsen/CJVX
Be sure to click on the Duffy Lyon an her husband Joe link for more pictures scroll down and you can find the (or click here) "No Bull" radio ad done by my mother as well.
Or Obama Nabs Butter Cow Backing October 24, 2007. again scroll for the "No Bull" commercial which is easier to find on this page.
Citizen Kate report - "On the trail" commission of Barack Obama bust.
Thank you to everyone for your support of my family and their celebrity status.
This is Doug Lyon MyMS.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
2008 River Road Run August 16-17, 2008
Dear Friends,
Once again I will join over 200 motorcyclists August 16th and 17th riding to end the devastating effects of MS. As you know last year I was honored to be the Ambassador for this event. This year, the honor is to let all of my friends and family know that while still on my daily injections of Copaxone, my doctor reports that I am healthier (as far as MS goes) than ever and with this course of treatment - I may even be better than in previous years.
In May, I also survived, very well I might add, volunteering atMS Camp for my second year.
Thank you for supporting me in helping others and to be the change I want to become.
Because of your generous support, I was one of the top fundraisers for this event last year. My goal again this year is to raise at least $10,000 – a goal you graciously helped me meet. Please help me again with your tax-deductible donations. Remember to check with your employer, as many businesses match contributions made by employees.
If you would like to contribute via the Internet, please log on to www.mssociety.org. You will find on the left hand side towards the bottom of the menu’s an icon for ePledge – sponsor a Participant. Search for me and then select me from the short list.
Otherwise, please make your checks payable to the National MS Society. If your place of business matches your contribution, let me know so I can keep track of contribution totals. My deadline to get my donations is Friday, August 15th, 2008. After the event, I will make sure I send you a recap of the event to all my sponsors.
Thank you so much for your support of me and the fight against MS. Please call me if you have any questions or comments about this event. I can be reached at 612-236-9420 or by email at douglyon@tech4learning.com
Sincerely,
Once again I will join over 200 motorcyclists August 16th and 17th riding to end the devastating effects of MS. As you know last year I was honored to be the Ambassador for this event. This year, the honor is to let all of my friends and family know that while still on my daily injections of Copaxone, my doctor reports that I am healthier (as far as MS goes) than ever and with this course of treatment - I may even be better than in previous years.
In May, I also survived, very well I might add, volunteering atMS Camp for my second year.
Thank you for supporting me in helping others and to be the change I want to become.
Because of your generous support, I was one of the top fundraisers for this event last year. My goal again this year is to raise at least $10,000 – a goal you graciously helped me meet. Please help me again with your tax-deductible donations. Remember to check with your employer, as many businesses match contributions made by employees.
If you would like to contribute via the Internet, please log on to www.mssociety.org. You will find on the left hand side towards the bottom of the menu’s an icon for ePledge – sponsor a Participant. Search for me and then select me from the short list.
Otherwise, please make your checks payable to the National MS Society. If your place of business matches your contribution, let me know so I can keep track of contribution totals. My deadline to get my donations is Friday, August 15th, 2008. After the event, I will make sure I send you a recap of the event to all my sponsors.
Thank you so much for your support of me and the fight against MS. Please call me if you have any questions or comments about this event. I can be reached at 612-236-9420 or by email at douglyon@tech4learning.com
Sincerely,
Camp Survival 2008 Preparing for the River Road Run
In May, I survived very well, MS Camp for my second year. My first year volunteering, I was apprehensive about MS Camp because I didn’t know what to expect. The second year my apprehension grew because I knew exactly what to expect. However, the 2nd year I quickly was reconnect with my family I realized I had missed all year. It has become a special experience for me to strengthen the bond with friends and meet new people. Being a part of providing such a positive experience for so many people has more rewards than I imagined. I have seen first hand how far your dollars have gone to help these individuals.
Stopping my life for a week and getting to know people I likely would not have meet in my daily life is also very rewarding. It makes me know more about why I am who I am, who I want to be and most importantly why you and all of my friends are such an important part of my life.
I know it is difficult to understand with words how powerful of an experience MS Camp can be. I see people living with this crazy disease which has devastating effects in how they live. I also see amazing examples of the human spirit in such a different way than I could have imagined. It is amazing to be a part of helping people with MS live their lives. And doing it well.
Thank you for supporting me in helping others and to be the change I want to become.
Stopping my life for a week and getting to know people I likely would not have meet in my daily life is also very rewarding. It makes me know more about why I am who I am, who I want to be and most importantly why you and all of my friends are such an important part of my life.
I know it is difficult to understand with words how powerful of an experience MS Camp can be. I see people living with this crazy disease which has devastating effects in how they live. I also see amazing examples of the human spirit in such a different way than I could have imagined. It is amazing to be a part of helping people with MS live their lives. And doing it well.
Thank you for supporting me in helping others and to be the change I want to become.
Monday, May 5, 2008
May May MS Camp Day 2 - may 5, 2008
The schedules change from year to year to try to keep some variety for campers. Sunday all the campers arrived and this year I was part of the welcoming committee greeting campers as they came in for the week. Most of the independent campers (independent meaning they can get around by themselves) drove here by themselves. I was the Valet car guy; parking cars out o f the way in the field.
Since the arrivals were staggered, I had plenty of time to get to know some of my fellow volunteers better. This is a tiny world. I realized so many connections. One to my old next door nieghbor Jane who rode with me in the River Road Run a couple of years ago. Lisa, who is not only a trainer for care giving dogs, "helper dogs" is also vice president of the MN hosta association. So, that is one of the many connections I have made by talking to all the people here.
One of the schedule changes was the first night of camp. Last year, while I don't remember what was on the agenda, this year, we had a cabin sharing session. First with the volunteers. MS Camp is 29 years old. One of the volunteers, Dave has been volunteering for 26 years. In addition to being a kind, helping person, he loves the environment at MS Camp. It is some wonderful people helping other people.
Pat really made me think about what a positive environment the MS Society has created here at camp. Throughout the year, he has so many things to worry about. When he comes to camp, this week at MS Camp he does not have to worry about anything. Besides the number of years people have been coming to camp, and the enjoyment, fellowship, education and sharing about MS, many of these campers spouse's and caregivers are thrilled to have a week off as well. Funny how this effort by the MS Society brings help, relief, and support to so many people struggling with the devastating effects of MS.
Now after hearing about that some what "taglined" sentence. "Fighting to end the devasting effects of MS. Come to camp. While there is hardly any negativity here at camp, believe me, this disease is or can be devastating. From not being able to eat by yourself, to losing your cognitive abilities. It is devastating. It is one thing to see someone in a wheel chair who you can see what the disease has done to them. Rick, however, looks normal, talks normal, walks normal, but MS has taken away his cognitive abilities. None of which are obvious, in fact, I would still debate there are any issues with him. Perhaps you need more than a week to see those devastating effects of MS.
Camp is a powerful thing for many people. I am glad I am here. The only reason it is easier here at year 2, is that I now belong to a new family. Being part of a family brings all sorts of things to consider, but the most important is a common understanding, respect, love, likes, dislikes, and you know, family stuff.
Keep an eye out for my next posts on a healthy balance, and MS and Doug's arm chair politics.
This is MYMS.
Since the arrivals were staggered, I had plenty of time to get to know some of my fellow volunteers better. This is a tiny world. I realized so many connections. One to my old next door nieghbor Jane who rode with me in the River Road Run a couple of years ago. Lisa, who is not only a trainer for care giving dogs, "helper dogs" is also vice president of the MN hosta association. So, that is one of the many connections I have made by talking to all the people here.
One of the schedule changes was the first night of camp. Last year, while I don't remember what was on the agenda, this year, we had a cabin sharing session. First with the volunteers. MS Camp is 29 years old. One of the volunteers, Dave has been volunteering for 26 years. In addition to being a kind, helping person, he loves the environment at MS Camp. It is some wonderful people helping other people.
Pat really made me think about what a positive environment the MS Society has created here at camp. Throughout the year, he has so many things to worry about. When he comes to camp, this week at MS Camp he does not have to worry about anything. Besides the number of years people have been coming to camp, and the enjoyment, fellowship, education and sharing about MS, many of these campers spouse's and caregivers are thrilled to have a week off as well. Funny how this effort by the MS Society brings help, relief, and support to so many people struggling with the devastating effects of MS.
Now after hearing about that some what "taglined" sentence. "Fighting to end the devasting effects of MS. Come to camp. While there is hardly any negativity here at camp, believe me, this disease is or can be devastating. From not being able to eat by yourself, to losing your cognitive abilities. It is devastating. It is one thing to see someone in a wheel chair who you can see what the disease has done to them. Rick, however, looks normal, talks normal, walks normal, but MS has taken away his cognitive abilities. None of which are obvious, in fact, I would still debate there are any issues with him. Perhaps you need more than a week to see those devastating effects of MS.
Camp is a powerful thing for many people. I am glad I am here. The only reason it is easier here at year 2, is that I now belong to a new family. Being part of a family brings all sorts of things to consider, but the most important is a common understanding, respect, love, likes, dislikes, and you know, family stuff.
Keep an eye out for my next posts on a healthy balance, and MS and Doug's arm chair politics.
This is MYMS.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
New Camp 2008
I have been telling people that I am not looking forward to camp this year. Last year, I was not looking forward to it because I had no idea what to expect. This year, I knew exactly what to expect, so that is why I was not looking forward to it.
Upon arrival at Camp Courage, I fell right back into it. Seeing all of my past friends I made last year (volunteers) and actually many more. I think we have more volunteers this year. My negative energy quickly turned to eagerness to get the week started. Our training we all get was a welcome review not only for me a 1 year vetran, but the volunteers of 20 years as well.
This year we learned how to take better care of ourselves with transfers of campers and how not to hurt ourselves. I learned that the nursing profession has surpassed injuries and loss time accidents than the construction industry. Health care is actually a dangerous business for caregivers. The training was great for anyone who cares for anyone else.
My greatest challenge so far at camp was snoring. 3:15 am my fellow volunteers are louder than the nearby freight trains near the camp. At 11am campers will begin to arrive. Tonight, I remember, and I am told that the snoring will be even worse.
This is mymsdouglyon Sunday Morning at MS Camp 2008.
Upon arrival at Camp Courage, I fell right back into it. Seeing all of my past friends I made last year (volunteers) and actually many more. I think we have more volunteers this year. My negative energy quickly turned to eagerness to get the week started. Our training we all get was a welcome review not only for me a 1 year vetran, but the volunteers of 20 years as well.
This year we learned how to take better care of ourselves with transfers of campers and how not to hurt ourselves. I learned that the nursing profession has surpassed injuries and loss time accidents than the construction industry. Health care is actually a dangerous business for caregivers. The training was great for anyone who cares for anyone else.
My greatest challenge so far at camp was snoring. 3:15 am my fellow volunteers are louder than the nearby freight trains near the camp. At 11am campers will begin to arrive. Tonight, I remember, and I am told that the snoring will be even worse.
This is mymsdouglyon Sunday Morning at MS Camp 2008.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Mr. MS Himself, Montel Williams
My lucky life took me to New York City last weekend. On the way home at Laguardia Airport I had the pleasure to briefly meet Montel Williams. After trying to get home on an earlier flight, the neighboring gate was deplaning. Steve, my partner, noticed him and said I should go talk to him. I shy away from approaching stars. They just want to be left alone. After about 120 feet of persuasion from Steve and building my courage, I did approach him after another woman briefly spoke to him.
"Mr. Williams," I said, "I just wanted to thank you for all you are doing for MS. I have it too. " He was quite friendly and conversational. He said to keep up the fight and then also talked about the fact that there are some new treatments just around the corner. He talked about the possibility of a cocktail that would prove effective for people struggling with the disease.
I said that I don't have the disease that badly. I told him that my diagnosis motivated me to do something. Fundraising.
Following Montel, you could tell he was affected by MS. I am a fan of Montel Williams. He is strong and outspoken and in all of his appearances, you would not realize he has MS.
We chit chatted a little bit and he asked about what medication I was on... I said Copaxone.
Montel was nice and positive. At the close of our conversation, he said to check out his
Website to get some more information about how he is supporting the disease. So have a look. http://www.montelms.org/ Montel heavily supports the medical community in finding a cure for this disease and 100% of your contributions go toward the cause.
Not only was this fan glad to meet you, Mr. Williams, as even one other person whom I noticed grabbed your attention after I left you. Everyone is impressed with your struggle, courage, and leadership in what you are doing to find a cure for this disease.
Make sure you have a look at his site. Take notice of the section called Take Action: Montel Williams on Medical Marijauna. With all the experiments drug companies get to do in concocting drugs to sell, and the sometimes harmful and deadly side effects they have to explain in their commercials, I know that for the people who marijauna helps, there is no reason they need to be considered criminals. Like Montel, I don't condone breaking the law, but consider this. After you have a few cocktails to unwind from a hard day, look me or someone suffering the effects of MS in the eye, and tell them they should not be using this effective safe "drug." Then for my arguments sake, be prepared to never drink again!
This is MYMS.
"Mr. Williams," I said, "I just wanted to thank you for all you are doing for MS. I have it too. " He was quite friendly and conversational. He said to keep up the fight and then also talked about the fact that there are some new treatments just around the corner. He talked about the possibility of a cocktail that would prove effective for people struggling with the disease.
I said that I don't have the disease that badly. I told him that my diagnosis motivated me to do something. Fundraising.
Following Montel, you could tell he was affected by MS. I am a fan of Montel Williams. He is strong and outspoken and in all of his appearances, you would not realize he has MS.
We chit chatted a little bit and he asked about what medication I was on... I said Copaxone.
Montel was nice and positive. At the close of our conversation, he said to check out his
Website to get some more information about how he is supporting the disease. So have a look. http://www.montelms.org/ Montel heavily supports the medical community in finding a cure for this disease and 100% of your contributions go toward the cause.
Not only was this fan glad to meet you, Mr. Williams, as even one other person whom I noticed grabbed your attention after I left you. Everyone is impressed with your struggle, courage, and leadership in what you are doing to find a cure for this disease.
Make sure you have a look at his site. Take notice of the section called Take Action: Montel Williams on Medical Marijauna. With all the experiments drug companies get to do in concocting drugs to sell, and the sometimes harmful and deadly side effects they have to explain in their commercials, I know that for the people who marijauna helps, there is no reason they need to be considered criminals. Like Montel, I don't condone breaking the law, but consider this. After you have a few cocktails to unwind from a hard day, look me or someone suffering the effects of MS in the eye, and tell them they should not be using this effective safe "drug." Then for my arguments sake, be prepared to never drink again!
This is MYMS.
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