September

Since it's the first day of September, I thought it'd be a good idea to mention a couple major "events" across the nation.

Being part of the Military, there are certain things you just know. As many might know that September is Suicide Prevention Month. The topic of suicide prevention have always been pretty big around military lives. Even high ranking officers have first hand experience what suicide can do to a family. Since then, many commanders have keep the topic of suicide a top priority when it comes to overall troops health and moral.

There are loads of sites all around that gives information about suicide prevents and where you can get help (sites like Army G-1 Human Resources) but truly the most important thing is know what to do and know when to ask for help.

MG Mark Graham with pictures of his late sons: ROTC Cadet Kevin Graham and 2Lt. Jeff Graham

What many may not know, however, September is also National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Ever since Sean was diagnosed, I think our entire family have been turned upside-down (not to mention both of his parents are still away!) and through the reading and research, I've found that a huge community that brings family together to raise awareness of childhood cancer. Places like Complete the Cure and Cure Search really help in the cause to raise more awareness to childhood cancer and raise money to finding a cure!

Best of all, you can do your part to help! Support National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month by downloading CureSearch.org's September calendar. Each day shows you a different way for you to help conquer childhood cancer.

There are also ways to help if you love eating at Chili's Grill & Bar®. Chili's Grill & Bar® and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have come together again for their fifth annual contribution. Starting today to September 30th, when you eat at Chili's you can:

1. Make a donation to St. Jude and receive a Create-A-Pepper chili pepper coloring sheet designed for display at restaurants during the month.

Create a Pepper!

2. Purchase Create-A-Pepper T-shirts that can be customized with permanent marker.

3. Buy a customized Create-A-Pepper key that can be cut for use at home or the office.

And here is the awesome part: If you eat at Chili’s on Monday, Sept. 28th, Chili’s will donate 100% of profits to St. Jude! This is just amazing way to help while enjoying the food from Chili's! Thank you Chili's for continuing to help the cause to find a cure for childhood cancer! Click here to find the closest participating Chili's near you :D

You can find out more about Chili's cause, make donations online and more over at Create A Pepper

I'm hoping after I post this, you will spread this big event with your family and friends. After all, kids should never have to fight such battle. Help the cause to cure childhood cancer!