Michelle Burdiss with Christa Donahue.
We had a fantastic Supermom 2013 celebration last night with Michelle Colo Burdiss, family, and friends. Michelle had the most unique votes and is our 2013 Richmond Supermom! Read her nomination and those of the many other amazing women nominated here.
Thanks to Medarva at Stony Point Surgery Center for sponsoring this amazing tribute to Richmond moms. We’re super excited that Shannon Milligan of Keller Williams Realty matched our donation to CJSTUF for the contest too. Together, we made a $500 donation to this very important local nonprofit that was started in memory of Charlotte. Read more about Charlotte from her mom, Rachel Reynolds.
We celebrated with doctors and other representatives from Medarva at Stony Point Surgery Center and had a great time. Kate Hall, Richmondmom.com Founder, and Christa Donahue, one of the new owners of Richmondmom.com, celebrated alongside everyone (Christa’s husband and co-owner of Richmondmom.com was at home babysitting their 2 little ones!).
Shannon Milligan, Kate Hall, Michelle Burdiss, Rachel Reynolds, and Christa Donahue
We just had to share the comments from Michelle’s husband about her too. He posted the following on Facebook before the contest ended – not knowing whether she’d be the official winner in our Richmondmom.com contest or not:
Eddie Edwards, Shannon Milligan, and Rachel Reynolds congratulate Michelle!
**So Michelle’s mom nominated her for Richmond Supermom before I had the chance. So what can I say……….a whole lot ! There are so many reasons one can be defined as a Supermom and I know there are a lot of them out there. They may have risen above tragedy, juggle a job and kids all by themselves, have sacrificed everything for their children and I am amazed at what so many of them do. What makes Michelle a Supermom to me is her endless efforts to always strive for better, yet not in a way that compromises being herself. She keeps it real, there is no false presentation of our family and our life across the facebook world where no one can really see the truth. Raising kids is the most awesome and difficult thing at the same time and Michelle is not afraid to hide it. She never pretends to know it all and through all the different challenges we have faced she has seeked out advice through books, others, and shared it with me. That is a most important factor for me she gets the brunt of parenthood while I am working and has to manage so much by herself, but she shares it with me and allows me to be a most involved father. I am sure at times just like when you have had enough of anything and you just want to put it away, sweep it under the rug if you will, you don’t want to talk about it anymore. You also certainly might not want to have the person who only had a glimpse into the madness take part in making a decision for how to handle certain situations, but we are a team……she allows me full partnership even as many times as I have totally sabotaged the system.
System you may ask…..well I hope you have one if you have 5 kids or that system is going to run you : ) So thank you Michelle Colo Burdiss for being real, making all the efforts you do each day just to keep it going, and also still making time for me, your best friend…….that is how it all started……….who knew………..well everyone knew because you told them, but I meant who knew it would turn out this way???? Certainly not me. I didn’t have expectations of you, I just love you, but you would exceed anyone’s in my opinion that is why you are a Supermom and a Superwife!*** (written by Michelle’s husband).
Bruce Kupper, CEO of MEDARVA, celebrate with our Supermom.
Congratulations again to Michelle – Richmondmom.com 2013 Supermom! You ROCK!
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Congrats to Michelle Colo Burdiss who had the most unique votes and is our 2013 Richmond Supermom! Read her nomination and those of the many other amazing women nominated here.
Thanks to Medarva at Stony Point Surgery Center for sponsoring this amazing tribute to Richmond moms.
Prizes include over $3,000 of great local swag including a celebration for Michelle and her friends at Brio Tuscan Grill at Stony Point Fashion Park on May 8th, 2013 at 6:00-7:30pm.
- We’ve made a donation to CJStuf.Org for every nomination! They grant $500 gifts to families suffering with illness in memory of Charlotte Reynolds who passed away at the tender age of four. Read more about Charlotte from her mom, Rachel Reynolds.
- Shannon Milligan of Keller Williams Realty matched our donations to CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation = $500 total donation. One family will receive help because of your involvement.
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Prizes are subject to change with many thanks to our generous sponsors, and Michelle will receive:
Gardner & Jones Orthodontics – $500 off one full case of braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen for a child or an adult!
Hayes & Fisk $500 gift certificate
The Wine Loft – A wine and Cheese tasting for 6 people valued at $250
Richmond Symphony – Family four pack of tickets valued at approximately $200. The tickets will be for Sunday, May 19 at 3 pm. Pixar in Concert. The magic of 13 Pixar films on a BIG screen with scores played live by the Richmond Symphony. It’s a uniquely magical experience.
Massage Envy – A one-hour Massage and 1-hour Healthy Skin Facial worth $166
Health Focus – 90 minute microcurrent facial rejuvenation ($139 value).
Kate Hall: Richmond Rocks – 5 books to winner; 1 to each of two runners up – Value $105
nTelos – 2 tickets to see The Avett Brothers at the nTelos Wireless Pavilion in Portsmouth on June 22 – Value $100
Indulgence Salon & Boutique in Ashland and Gundlach Plumbing & Heating. Monique of Indulgence and the sisters from Gundlach are giving a joint gift certificate for $100.00 for the Salon. They have a beautiful boutique, hair styling, message therapy, facials, manicures and pedicures and wonderful facials. They also have several types of tanning and the new spray tanning service.
Virginia Eye Institute – a $100 gift certificate to our optical shops
Atkins, Maestrello, Miller & Associates – Sonicare toothbrush worth $99
Science Museum of Virginia - One year family membership valued at $99
Affiliated Dermatologists of Virginia – $90 gift of a 60 minute European facial
Spirited Art – 2 seats at an art class worth $70
VHS, 428 North Boulevard, Richmond, VA (next to the Fine Arts Museum) – One year membership to the Virginia Historical Society valued at $72.
College Nannies – 4 hours of nanny care worth $70
Romp n’ Roll – One free week of summer camp – ”week” is Tues/Thurs from 9am-noon or 2pm-5pm – $65
Sweet & Simple Moments with God Devotional (release scheduled for 9/2013) – Kim Newlen, local Richmond author and Founder of Sweet Monday is giving the winner and 2 runners-up a gift certificate for signed copy of new devotional book when it is released in September – Value is $50.
Frostings – One dozen delicious cupcakes – $30
Granny Babysits The Mischievous Five(retail value $23.95) to the winner, and the runner up receives My Dear Rosa Jean(retail value $14.95) by Carin Casey
Three (3) classes at the Barre Boutique worth $50!
Seven (7) free yogurt cards at Sweet Frog – one for every day of the week! Value of $35.
Two free movie ticket vouchers to Cinebistro at Stony Point Fashion Mall worth $26.
A gift basket from Fruit 66 valued at $25.
Thanks to Medarva at Stony Point Surgery Center who is our sponsor for this contest once again. And they’re donating a Botox treatment for one facial area worth $240 to our winner too!
- Prizes include over $3,000 of great local swag including a celebration for the winning mom and her friends at Brio Tuscan Grill at Stony Point Fashion Park on May 8th, 2013 at 6:00-7:30pm.
- Last year we celebrated with Beth Trebour and had a blast! Who will this year’s Supermom be?
- We’ve made a $5 donation to CJStuf.Org for every nomination! They grant $500 gifts to families suffering with illness in memory of Charlotte Reynolds who passed away at the tender age of four. Read more about Charlotte from her mom, Rachel Reynolds.
- Shannon Milligan of Keller Williams Realty is going to match our donations to CJ’s!
1) Click here or on ANY link below to vote for a SuperMom (all links go to the same contest survey) Nominees with first names beginning with A-M are listed in Question 2 of the survey. Nominees with first names beginning with N-Z are in Question 3 of the survey.
2) Voting occurs from 4/17-4/30, and each individual may only vote once in this contest. Why? We realize folks don’t have time to vote multiple times, and don’t want to take up time for our voters. So once is it, and we don’t count duplicate votes. We do not add anyone to our email list unless they opt-in, nor do we send mail so your privacy is protected!
3) The winner will be announced on 5/1/12, and she may invite 20 friends to celebrate with her at our SuperMom Celebration at Brio Tuscan Grill on May 8th, where she’ll be treated to the amazing bunch of prizes below. (Actual prizes and amounts may vary based on each advertiser’s discretion.)
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And without further ado, the 2013 Richmond Virginia SuperMom Nominees in alphabetical order by FIRST NAME are:
Alicia Wilburn Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
I have had the privileged of knowing Alicia for the last 2.5 years. She is one amazing woman. She is a massage therapist who specializes in fertility and prenatal care, which I know for her has been especially hard since her spouse and her have struggled to conceive again. She also works as a doula, you can tell she really loves what she does because she just glows when she talks about anything birth-related. Last year her husband was diagnosed with a serious heart problem and is currently awaiting correct surgery. Due to his substantial medical problems he had to retire. You would think this would stress her out, but I have not seen her frown once through this all. I can not even really put into words how amazing she is; but i do know this the Richmond area is better off because we always need talented caring women like her around!
Amber Mattice Elliott Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
Amber Elliott is the most deserving Richmond mom for this award! She is not only a Registered Nurse at MCV, but she is the mother to 2 young children and caregiver to her husband. Her husband was diagnosed with MS in 2008 and his condition has progressively worsened. At just 38 years old, he can only walk with a cane, is unable to work, cannot drive, and is no longer responding to medication. Amber works night shifts full-time at MCV so she can be home days with her husband and children. Amber helps raise money for MS and other non-profits in many local events. She is an outstanding nurse and her patients and their families love her - and she is a loyal friend to those who know her, never hesitating to help them too. She NEVER complains or asks for help and she spends 100% of her waking hours taking care of someone else. She is totally deserving of this Richmond Supermom title – whether she wins this contest or not, she is definitely a Supermom, Superwife, and a Superfriend!
April Michelle Davis Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
April Michelle Davis is a business owner and a mom. April established her business, Editorial Inspirations, in 2001, and she is a freelance editor, indexer, and proofreader. In 2008, her son was born–a month early. While she was in the hospital because her water had ruptured, but she wasn’t yet having contractions, she was writing holiday cards to her clients and finishing up other tasks to prepare for the birth of her son. April cut back on the number of clients and projects she works on at one time, and he son now stays home with her. April homeschools her son, and they have been learning Spanish since he was 1.5 years old. Her son is a very dependent child; he loves to read, do math, and play with his Mama. April works for her clients when her son sleeps, so she gets little to no time to herself. April is a wonderful mother and wife. She is always working to keep her family in check, on time, and fed. Her house may be a mess, but that just shows what her priority is–her family.
Ashley Porter Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
Being a new mother of two is a full time job. But what if you have 10+ hour shifts as a nurse on top of it? My wife is definitely a Richmond Supermom. When she was pregnant with our daughter last year, she worked on her feet at the hospital almost up to her due date. Then, after the baby was born, she cut her pregnancy leave short because they needed her back at the hospital. But that didn’t stop her from breastfeeding our daughter – she managed to slip in some pump breaks just so she could avoid formula as long as possible. To top it all off, my income was cut in half last year. We also recently moved into a new house. The combination of my unexpectedly lower income and all the new expenses put us on a shoestring budget.
Betsy Williams Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
I have known Betsy for over 10 years, as a client and a friend. She is the kindest, most genuine person I know. In addition to the many charitable organizations that she volunteers for, she is the #1 champion for her kids. Betsy was diagnosed with breast cancer last year; when she told me, I could only wonder how a woman who is meant to be on this earth to set an example for others could be stricken with this disease. I still wonder. Not long after the diagnosis, I attended a fund-raiser for victims of domestic violence, and there was Betsy-wearing a fabulous wig, battling a dreadful disease, but more concerned with the welfare of others–no surprise at all. I have chatted with some of her friends about this, and we all agreed, after she beats this disease, she will no doubt become a passionate advocate for other women suffering from breast cancer. I feel sorry for the cancer-it had no idea who it’s dealing with-Betsy is truly the most caring and genuine women I have ever met.
Beverly Hires Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
My mother, Beverly Hires is most deserving of the Richmond’s 2013 Supermom Award. Not only is my mother an unbelievable mom, best friend and role model, she is a hands-on “Nana of 5″ and the most selfless person I know. She is always putting others first. On August 8, 2011, my mother donated one of her kidneys to save my husband’s life. My husband was in renal kidney failure living on 1 kidney at 12% efficiency. My mom, without hesitation, offered to donate one of her kidneys to save his life. We will never be able to thank my mother enough for the selfless act of kindness. I strive daily to be the mother my mom is to me to my children. I am lucky to call her my mother; she deserves the world. Please consider Beverly Hires for the Richmond’s 2013 Supermom Award. Thank you!
Carolyn Mustain Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
I’m proud to nominate my wife for Supermom. As we raised two sons, Carolyn filled many volunteer slots: homeroom mom, PTA, team mom, chaperone, chauffeur, club sponsor and party hostess for birthdays, holidays, and more. She can innovate, renovate or repair whatever is broken: toilets, toys, and hearts. When her sister died, she adopted surrogate mode for her sister’s teens. She encouraged, comforted, and became whatever-you-need-I’m-here for them, and now for their children as well. Carolyn draws people into her motherly orbit with hospitality, humor and love. Our home was a gathering spot for our sons’ friends (sometimes still is!) As kids, she hosted play dates. As teens, Carolyn hosted hungry kids, sometimes more than 100! Routinely kids gathered in our TV room, ate snacks, and named her “Cookie Mom.” Several proclaimed themselves third son. Even breast cancer didn’t stop our supermom. She had surgery, chemo, and simultaneously wrote a book. She deserves Supermom of the Century!
Haylee is a hard working mom, nurse and wife.
Isabel Shealy Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
She does everything. She has a husband, 2 kids and a dog. She is a CAREGIVER. She takes cares of everyone around her, including her in laws, uncle, niece and nephew. She has the perfect house (it looks like from a design magazine) and is very organized. She always finds the time to volunteer in different organizations such as: the kids schools, where she has been from room mother to Director of the board; Church, where she teaches Sunday school or any other program. She is the best cooker and is never afraid to try a new recipe despite she doesn’t always know the ingredients or is familiar with the process. She is a doula by nature not by training. She coached and helped her sister in the process of two natural births. She shares all that she has (even money) with all people around her, but specially with her family. She always looks stylish, does her hair, wears make up and has the best [out]look between her girlfriends. She really deserves the super mom award!
Janice LeSueur Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
My mom has supported us through the unthinkable.She kicked cancer’s butt in 2009. After her own battle with breast cancer, I started having issues with my hydrocephalus, a condition in which the ceriabal spinal fluid does not drain. My mom supported me through 12 brain surgeries, countless ER Trips, 20 hospital admissions, hundreds of catscans and MRI’s , and too many doctor appointments to count just in the last three years. After all of this hell our family has been through in the past five years, it’s now time to reward my momma for putting up with all of this.
Jenni Bagley Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
I am nominating my wife, Jenni, for Supermom Award. Jenni is a US Army wife currently playing the roles of mommy and daddy while I am deployed to Afghanistan. She works 40+ hours a week all the while taking care of our 8 month old daughter in my absence. My wife had surgery on her foot and she is actually doing everything on one good foot, which is pretty super to me. I am grateful for all she does for our baby girl. I am thankful my daughter has a great mommy who loves and nurtures her on a daily basis. I cannot imagine how difficult it is raising an infant by herself. Baby girl always has what she needs and is always very stylish with my wife’s creativity. And she always makes sure to take pictures of our baby girl so I can see her grow while I am deployed. My wife works from sun up to sun down all on her own and that is why she should win Richmond’s 2013 Supermom award.
Jennifer Morris Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
Jennifer certainly deserves to be this year’s Supermom. Through many challenges, she wrangles three kids, manages serious health issues, and wrestlers with public officials! All with a fun spirit that makes me smile just thinking about it.
Jennifer Tate Crowder Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
Jennifer juggles a busy schedule (like many moms). She has a very bright and active 3-1/2 year old daughter. She and her husband both work in education. She is the Director of School Counseling at a Henrico Co. high school, while her husband is the Student Activities Director at a high school in Hanover County. The nature of their jobs creates many evening activities for which they are responsible. She handles the pressure with grace and calm. She is always available to her parents and in-laws when there is a problem or health crisis. Since she lives in Beaverdam, she spends countless hours behind the wheel commuting to school as well as to the home of her parents in Mechanicsville. She always puts herself at the end of the line when it comes to things like getting a hair cut, going to the doctor, etc. She deserves to have some pampering and attention.
Jenny High Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
My wife Jenny High deserves the Supermom Award, because she is the epitome of a SUPERMOM! She is not only an outstanding wife and mother to our two children, but she is mother to many other children in our community. She has created an organization named Prom Bring It, that not only provides formal wear to the youth in the community, but provides leadership, employment resources and love. She also works a full time job. She genuinely cares about all the kids lives she touches. She has been the primary financial source for the organization. She has delivered gowns to young ladies that did not have transportation, and has also paid for young mens tuxedos out of her own pocket. She has chauffered youth to and from prom, and has also taken them shopping for school clothes when their parents were not available. My wife is a mother to all youth regardles of sex, race, religion or orientation. My wife gives from the heart and does not expect anything in return! SHE IS A SUPERMOM!
Katye Snipes Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
Katye is a wonderful mom to two young boys and wife to her husband Mark. However, it is her role as Administrative Assistant at The Anna Julia Cooper Episcopal School (AJCES) where Katye becomes a SuperMom to 70+ students and staff. AJCES is an independent, tuition-free, faith-based middle school for students of limited resources primarily from Richmond’s East End. AJCES is a beacon of hope in one of Richmond’s poorest neighborhoods- Katye’s contribution has been enormous. Katye’s job description is astounding: bill payer, receptionist, volunteer coordinator, nurse, computer & copier fixer, supply orderer, record keeper…the list is endless. She approaches every task with a willing & kind heart and a sense of grace that is immeasurable. Perhaps her greatest gift is the support & nurturing she gives to all the students and staff alike. Katye truly mothers everyone at AJCES with a ready hug, words of encouragement and a shoulder to lean on when needed. Everyone adores her!
Kim Brandt Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
My wife, Kim Brandt, is the most supermom ever. In August of 2012, our daughter Campbell was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. This totally turned our world upside down. Kim had to take a leave of absence from her job and become the full time care giver for our daughter. Kim takes Campbell to VCU several times each week. When Campbell is in the hospital, Kim spends every night by her side giving her the care that only a supermom can give. Kim has become Campbell’s “in home teacher” keeping her ahead of schedule of her classmates. My wife has made every effort to keep Campbell’s and our whole family’s life as “normal” as possible. Kim juggles schedules like no other person I have ever seen. Our home runs like a well-oiled machine even when she is in the hospital. Kim has touched the lives of other children in the hospital, including arranging birthday presents for a little girl who was all alone on her birthday. Kim is an amazing supermom; nurse, teacher,and wife!
Mary Smith Reese Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
I am nominating my mom , she has raised myself & my sister and brother with no help from my father since I was in 4th grade. I’m 47, we had no help from child support or the state (since that was for people who really needed it) so mom always worked multiple jobs & with the help of my grandmother she has made it all these years. I know there are lots of mothers who have done the same but my mom has never asked for a thing and has always helped others, she became a CNA later in life when her job was eliminated and now at 67 is still working. She also helped at a home with disabled people to visit with them and help with a birthday and holiday parties for the residents. Mom has helped my brother raise his child after her mother died and my sister with her battle with breast cancer. She took care of her own mother until she passed from Alzheimers and now she is helping me support my husband with his fight with kidney cancer. This is not about any kind of prize just recognition.
Michelle Colo Burdiss Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
Michelle is my daughter and a stay-at-home mom of 5 beautiful children. Michelle was an only child so seeing her with 5 children that she gave me as grandkids is wonderful. She tries really hard to be the best mom that she can be by making sure he children have great manners and show respect to the elders. She doesn’t allow her children to watch public TV with all of it’s commercialism. She makes sure her family eats a healthy meal by purchasing fresh fruits and veggies and purchasing organic and all natural choices. She special ordered her children’s Easter candy so that she could be sure it was all natural with none of the artificial dyes and junk. She tries to have special times with each of her children individually with them taking turns going to the store with her or on outings such as a hike. She loves photography and nature and has instilled the value of all life even bugs into her children. They actually capture bugs that have entered their house & release them outside.
Michelle Wingo Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
My daughter has a 22 month old baby boy, and is the wildest little boy you ever seen. She gave birth to him while working a full time job as a waitress while finishing up her Accounting degree. She graduated last December when my grandson was 18 months, and now she’s a full-time Mom and works two jobs: the waitress job and she works as a tax preparer. She’s always running around doing everything for everybody and I feel that she never has time for herself, so I watch my grandson as often as I can so she can at least sleep-in once in awhile. My daughter is a Supermom and I feel like she really deserves this award!
Miqueta Johnson Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
I feel like I should be Supermom of the Year, NOT b/c of attention but for being there no matter what. When my kids’ daddy turned his back, I stepped up & showed him the woman that I am! I had my 1st child when I was in high school but I still graduated, got my own apartment & took care of her by myself. Now I’m 24 with 3 beautiful girls and it’s hard being a single mom but I get it done – from cooking, cleaning, providing, and being a Nurse without pay. Trying to balance my own life is no joke. I cry sometimes because I want better for my family. Many say they understand but they don’t because the more I ask for help, I get none in return. I couldn’t attend college because I had no dependable sitter. I recently had to leave my job for the same reason. But I still smile because GOD has my back & always has when nobody else did. Some parents need to realize material things doesn’t count in parenting. I don’t live in the best neighborhood but I raise my family the old school way & I am proud of my scholars.
Patrice Wingo Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
My mom is a flight attendant, and all my life she has always been on a trip for 3-4 days a week. But that didn’t stop her from [attending] one athletic game growing up for my brother and me, or miss one musical concert. Sometimes she was the only parent from anybody on my teams to make it to events. Now that we children are older she is still awesome! She still flys the skys, and makes sure she gets to New York often on a layover to visit my brother, his new wife, and their new baby on the way, and when shes home she babysits my son and takes him to music class, nature class, carnivals, petting zoos, etc. While doing all that she had her own father pass away and now the care of her mother has passed into her hands that she shares the responsibilties of with her three sibilings that live in town. I feel she deserves a break sometimes that’s why for her birthday in two weeks I’m treating her to a massage, but I feel she deserves a bit more, and that will be by winning this contest.
Roneisha Mccomb Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
My elder child is a mother of three beautiful children. She does whatever it takes to take care of them. Her age is 27, I want to share this story with you. Last October my child was homeless, she and children. The whole time she made it to class on time and worked a full time job. Being a full time student and able to work take care her kids plus passing every class is hard for the average person. She does it all help people when she can as well as me, and I haven’t worked in seven years. When I call and need anything she is always there. Doing all of this she never goes out have any fun. On top of that she is never recognized for any of the smiles or happiness she brings in people lives every day. Sometimes she’s more like my mom than my daughter. My other two daughters are in D.C and she is the one that brings everybody together. I love her and recognize her as God’s angel. I would just like the whole world to recognize my angel to0.
Sarah Graves Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
I am nominating my Wife, Sarah Graves. She & I will have been married for 10 years this June. We have been trying to get pregnant for a majority of that time & although fun, proved to be unsuccessful. We went through several rounds IVF also. I always knew that she would be an excellent mother knowing how caring & wonderful she is. We kept our hopes up thinking it would be a matter of time still no child. This past January, quite out of the blue, we were approached by a pregnant woman who was unable to keep & raise her child. We met with her & without hesitation, decided to adopt her child. Met several times over the next 9 months & in Sept. of 2012 our son Hudson was born. In an amazing set of circumstances, we were in the room when Hudson was born & Sarah instantly became a mother after all of our trials. I didn’t know how awesome a Mom she would be until I saw it with my own eyes. She jumped right in & has all the natural gifts a mom needs. JUST INCREDIBLE! Our son & I love her.
Shannon Hubbel Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
Shannon has continued to be a shining example of a mother who cares for and loves her family. Her daughter was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a type of cancer, in December of 2010. Shannon has two other children as well who she continues to nurture and care for – even the midst of traveling to other states for treatment for Emily’s cancer AND holding down a full time job. Shannon is a wonderful person. She deserves recognition for all she has done for her family.
Shirley Lesser & India Lipton Click on any link to vote for any nominee!
We are nominating a pair of supermoms raising a miraculous son! Dylan was born 11 weeks premature. In his brief life, he has recovered from 3 months of sepsis & has had 12 brain surgeries. He spent 101 days in the NICU & hospitalized weeks more with all the surgeries. Through all of this, his moms have rarely left his side; India with him daily in the hospital & Shirley with him in the evening while maintaining her job. Despite the doctors’ initial prognosis of severe disabilities, Dylan’s moms are determined to provide him with every opportunity to lead a happy & productive life. India now stays home with Dylan performing physical & developmental therapy with him several times a day. Shirley works during the day, but continues with his care and therapy at night & weekends. Born on Valentine’s Day last year, Dylan is now a very happy, seemingly healthy 1 year old! If you met Dylan today you would never know how sick he was or that he has 2 VP shunts to manage his hydrocephalus.
Prizes are subject to change with many thanks to our generous sponsors:
Gardner & Jones Orthodontics – $500 off one full case of braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen for a child or an adult!
Hayes & Fisk $500 gift certificate
The Wine Loft – A wine and Cheese tasting for 6 people valued at $250
Richmond Symphony – Family four pack of tickets valued at approximately $200. The tickets will be for Sunday, May 19 at 3 pm. Pixar in Concert. The magic of 13 Pixar films on a BIG screen with scores played live by the Richmond Symphony. It’s a uniquely magical experience.
Massage Envy – A one-hour Massage and 1-hour Healthy Skin Facial worth $166
Health Focus – 90 minute microcurrent facial rejuvenation ($139 value).
Kate Hall: Richmond Rocks – 5 books to winner; 1 to each of two runners up – Value $105
nTelos – 2 tickets to see The Avett Brothers at the nTelos Wireless Pavilion in Portsmouth on June 22 – Value $100
Indulgence Salon & Boutique in Ashland and Gundlach Plumbing & Heating. Monique of Indulgence and the sisters from Gundlach are giving a joint gift certificate for $100.00 for the Salon. They have a beautiful boutique, hair styling, message therapy, facials, manicures and pedicures and wonderful facials. They also have several types of tanning and the new spray tanning service.
Virginia Eye Institute – a $100 gift certificate to our optical shops
Atkins, Maestrello, Miller & Associates – Sonicare toothbrush worth $99
Science Museum of Virginia - One year family membership valued at $99
Affiliated Dermatologists of Virginia – $90 gift of a 60 minute European facial
Spirited Art – 2 seats at an art class worth $70
VHS, 428 North Boulevard, Richmond, VA (next to the Fine Arts Museum) – One year membership to the Virginia Historical Society valued at $72.
College Nannies – 4 hours of nanny care worth $70
Romp n’ Roll – One free week of summer camp – ”week” is Tues/Thurs from 9am-noon or 2pm-5pm – $65
Sweet & Simple Moments with God Devotional (release scheduled for 9/2013) – Kim Newlen, local Richmond author and Founder of Sweet Monday is giving the winner and 2 runners-up a gift certificate for signed copy of new devotional book when it is released in September – Value is $50.
Frostings – One dozen delicious cupcakes – $30
Granny Babysits The Mischievous Five(retail value $23.95) to the winner, and the runner up receives My Dear Rosa Jean(retail value $14.95) by Carin Casey
Three (3) classes at the Barre Boutique worth $50!
Seven (7) free yogurt cards at Sweet Frog – one for every day of the week! Value of $35.
Two free movie ticket vouchers to Cinebistro at Stony Point Fashion Mall worth $26.
Prizes include over $3,000 of great local swag including a celebration for the winning mom and her friends at Brio Tuscan Grill at Stony Point Fashion Park on May 8th, 2013 at 6:00-7:30pm.
Beth Trebour Richmond Supermom 2012
Last year we celebrated with Richmond mom Beth Trebour. Who will this year’s Supermom be?
We want to know all about her too so please nominate someone you think is deserving of the title and these great prizes.
Nominate Here
1) Nominate any Richmond-area mom by clicking on this link between 4/1/13-4/15/13. You will need to provide all required information so we can contact both of you as the contest progresses.
2) We’ll make a $5 donation to CJ’s Thumbs Up Foundation for every nomination up to $500! AND THIS YEAR – Shannon Milligan of Keller Williams Realty is going to match our donations to CJ’s! Now that’s awesome!
3) Vote for her and encourage friends to do the same here on Richmondmom.com between 4/17/13-4/30/13. Each person may only vote once, so it’s simple and easy. We’ll send you the voting link once all the nominations are in.
4) The winner will be announced on May 1st, 2013. She may invite up to 20 friends and family to celebrate with her at our SuperMom Celebration at Brio Tuscan Grill in Stony Point Mall where she’ll be treated to amazing prizes (actual prizes and amounts may vary based at each contributor’s discretion).
Get ready to nominate a Supermom in your life – let everyone know about her so they can vote too!
Gardner & Jones Orthodontics – $500 off one full case of braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen for a child or an adult!
Hayes & Fisk $500 gift certificate
The Wine Loft – A wine and Cheese tasting for 6 people valued at $250
Richmond Symphony – Family four pack of tickets valued at approximately $200. The tickets will be for Sunday, May 19 at 3 pm. Pixar in Concert. The magic of 13 Pixar films on a BIG screen with scores played live by the Richmond Symphony. It’s a uniquely magical experience.
Massage Envy – A one-hour Massage and 1-hour Healthy Skin Facial worth $166
Health Focus – 90 minute microcurrent facial rejuvenation ($139 value).
Kate Hall: Richmond Rocks – 5 books to winner; 1 to each of two runners up – Value $105
Thank you nTelos!
nTelos – 2 tickets to see The Avett Brothers at the nTelos Wireless Pavilion in Portsmouth on June 22 – Value $100
Indulgence Salon & Boutique in Ashland and Gundlach Plumbing & Heating. Monique of Indulgence and the sisters from Gundlach are giving a joint gift certificate for $100.00 for the Salon. They have a beautiful boutique, hair styling, message therapy, facials, manicures and pedicures and wonderful facials. They also have several types of tanning and the new spray tanning service.
Virginia Eye Institute – a $100 gift certificate to our optical shops
Atkins, Maestrello, Miller & Associates – Sonicare toothbrush worth $99
Science Museum of Virginia - One year family membership valued at $99
Affiliated Dermatologists of Virginia – $90 gift of a 60 minute European facial
Spirited Art – 2 seats at an art class worth $70
VHS, 428 North Boulevard, Richmond, VA (next to the Fine Arts Museum)
One year membership to the Virginia Historical Society valued at $72.
College Nannies – 4 hours of nanny care worth $70
Romp n’ Roll – One free week of summer camp – “week” is Tues/Thurs from 9am-noon or 2pm-5pm – $65
Sweet & Simple Moments with God Devotional (release scheduled for 9/2013) – Kim Newlen, local Richmond author and Founder of Sweet Monday is giving the winner and 2 runners-up a gift certificate for signed copy of new devotional book when it is released in September – Value is $50.
Frostings – One dozen delicious cupcakes – $30
Granny Babysits The Mischievous Five (retail value $23.95) to the winner, and the runner up receives My Dear Rosa Jean (retail value $14.95) by Carin Casey.
Three (3) classes at the Barre Boutique worth $50!
Seven (7) free yogurt cards at Sweet Frog – one for every day of the week! Value of $35.
Two free movie ticket vouchers to Cinebistro at Stony Point Fashion Mall worth $26.
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Some of you may be living the difficult challenge in your lives of dealing with elderly, unhealthy parents or others. Recently having made the decision with my husband that it was time to move his mother to a Richmond Assisted Living Facility, we know that the anxiety, pain, stress, and hurt can be overwhelming. Even when you know you have made the best decision for your loved one, it still hurts and the unexpected moments of sadness are unsettling.
Watching my own mother suffer with Alzheimer’s Disease for years and finally succumbing to complications of the disease was unbelievably painful for all of us.
Unfortunately, many of you will also face this dilemma at some point in the future with someone you love. That’s just one reason you may want to attend this upcoming event sponsored by Medarva Healthcare.
Caring for an elderly or dying parent involves many difficult decisions. That’s why Medarva Healthcare has invited nationally known TIME Magazine columnist Joe Klein, author of the “The Long Goodbye” to speak to the Richmond community about his own experiences making healthcare decisions for his parents as their health steadily declined.
Klein will also provide a detailed description of his interaction with the health care system.
Event Specifics
The event will take place Thursday, March 21, 7 p.m. at The Steward School’s Lora M. Robins Theatre, located at 11600 Gayton Rd, Richmond, VA 23238.
Tickets to the program are free. However, due to the anticipated turnout and limited seating capacity, registration is required.
Visit www.Medarva.com or call 804.775.4552 to register for the event, or to obtain more information.
“This is not an easy subject for anyone, but it’s a topic that needs to be addressed more often and by more people,” said Bruce P. Kupper, President/CEO of MEDARVA Healthcare. “With this in mind, one of Medarva Healthcare’s commitments to the community is to stimulate conversations on difficult subjects. The changing health care environment and end of life decisions are two such topics that need to be discussed under the guidance of local experts and those who have personal experiences, which others can learn from. Bringing in a speaker of Joe Klein’s caliber, demonstrates our commitment to doing it right.”
Speakers
Klein’s article, from the June 2012 edition of Time, is a close-up look at the tough decisions he faced managing the care for his parents in the final months of their lives. He also addresses the partnership that he formed with the physicians of the Geisinger Health System that made this difficult process a little easier. Knowing what his parents wanted, having realistic expectations, and having realistic physicians created an environment in which the best interests of his parents were placed above all else.
In addition to Klein, the event will also feature Dr. Raymond L. Spence, Jr., retired pastor of Second Baptist Church, speaking on the clergy’s perspective of end of life decisions; and Laurel (Laurie) Lyckholm, M.D., professor of Hematology/Oncology and Palliative Care at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Cancer Center.
About Joe Klein
Klein is one of America’s leading political journalists, a provocative and probing analyst of events in our nation’s capital and abroad. His weekly column “In the Arena” covers domestic and international affairs ranging from campaigns to healthcare.
A veteran of 10 presidential campaigns, Klein has been praised for his “dogged reporting, a thorough, subtle grasp of issues, and a clear-eyed, compelling style.” He is the rare political junkie who loves the intricacies of policy-making, has extensive sources not only within the US Government but throughout the world, and is at home as much in Damascus as he is in Des Moines.
Klein wrote the #1 bestseller, Primary Colors: A Novel of Politics, as “Anonymous.” The New York Times Book Review called it “one of the best political novels to appear in the latter half of the 20th Century;” it later became a major motion picture.
Klein has written more than 25 cover stories for TIME, ranging from political commentary and analysis to war stories in Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 2010, he has taken road trips across America driving through regions of the country interviewing voters, politicians, and community leaders about the nation’s most important concerns.
About MEDARVA Healthcare
Medarva Healthcare was formed in April 2012 and its roots can be traced back to October 31, 1951 when Richmond Eye Hospital was established. The Medarva Foundation is part of Medarva Healthcare (Medarva.com) and supports numerous medical care and education programs in Richmond’s community, as well as collaborative ventures with academic institutions, medical organizations and philanthropic groups to fund leading-edge research aimed at achieving important medical breakthroughs. The nonprofit includes Medarva at Stony Point Surgery Center.
For more information about Medarva Healthcare and this program, visit the website.
We had a great time planning and preparing for the perfect event for our winner
of the Hip to Be Round Richmondmom.com Dream Baby Shower. Kasi, her friends, and family were treated to a fun event – all orchestrated by Chris Nease of Celebrations at Home.
Chris created a theme around her shabby chic and pink ideas to celebrate the upcoming birth. With a cupcake table, baby shoes and coordinating ribbons, chalkboard painted silver tray, fabric flowers, buttons, and more unusual “finds” – it was the perfect setting!
Chris ensured that lots of details were woven throughout the party and celebration. Her inspiration continued to grow and grow, and
finally it all came together for Kasi. Delicious food was provided by Wild Greens Catering and Frostings cupcakes.
Click here to see more photos and descriptions from Celebrations at Home – you’ll love the details!
The Dream Baby Shower contest was sponsored by Hip to Be Round, MEDARVA Stony Point Surgery Center and many other local businesses donated fantastic gifts for our winner. Our winner was announced at the Hip to be Round Expectant Girls Night Out where we had delicious food and fun.
Congratulations again to Kasi and thanks to everyone who helped make this event a huge success!
More About Celebrations at Home
Chris Nease is the owner and party stylist for Celebrations at Home. With over 15 years of experience, Chris is recognized as an entertaining expert, and creative party stylist. Although she earned her degree in Fashion Merchandising, she parlayed her love of food and visual display into home entertaining and tabletop styling. For years she has designed parties with her unique and accessible style.
In addition to being creative director of Celebrations At Home, Chris shares her expertise through freelance contributions and has been published in Woman’s World, Cottages & Bungalows, Yum Food & Fun for Kids, HGTV.com, and she authored a chapter on holiday party planning in the bookClutterbugs Guide to an Organized Christmas. Chris also volunteers her time to Operation Shower, a non-profit organization providing group baby showers to wives of our deployed service men.
Chris Nease
Dr. Natario Couser
Just 60 seconds after entering the office of Dr. Natario Couser at Virginia Pediatric Ophthalmology Specialists and you already know he’s not only an expert physician, but he’s a very down-to-earth person and easy to talk with. Our conversation quickly turned to the adorable photo of his 3 1/2 month old son. With his wife currently completing her residency, they are a busy couple.
After spending some time with Dr. Couser, we learned that his sincere concern and caring for children extends beyond his personal life, and into his medical practice.
Dr. Couser is a Pediatric Ophthalmologist and he is the newly appointed Medical Director of the WHEELS Program. A pediatric ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who was first trained in diseases and surgery of the eye after finishing medical school. They then pursue further training in the diagnosis, treatment and surgery of those eye disorders that are unique to children. This makes Dr. Couser highly qualified to treat vision issues in children and to serve as Medical Director of the free WHEELS Program.
WHEELS: A Free Screening Program
The WHEELS program (Where Healthy Eyes and Ears Lead to Success) is jointly developed through Prevent Blindness Mid-Atlantic and the MEDARVA Foundation. It is a pre-school vision and hearing screening program, designed to promote healthy vision and hearing as a component of school readiness.
According to Dr. Couser, “An estimated 80 percent of what a child learns in a normal classroom setting is through vision and 75 percent of a child’s normal school day includes an auditory component. Considering these statistics, it’s easy to see how healthy vision and hearing contribute to a child’s overall success in school. I am proud to be a part of this innovative program, unlike any in the country.”
Since there is no federal guideline or mandate to make sure hearing/vision testing is consistent across the states, it’s up to individual states to create their own. With 50 different states, that means 50 different things going on related to testing children’s vital functions of seeing and hearing. Unfortunately, lots of kids unknowingly enter school with some type of vision problem that affects their educational and social interactions.
We asked Dr.Couser what parents need to know about testing, and he gave us some great information.
Potential Vision/Hearing Problems
“Many conditions in kids are asymptomatic and parents or children don’t even realize there is a problem. Some of the potential issues affecting kids can be effectively treated at a young age, but are more difficult to treat once children are older,” he explained. “Amblyopia is an example of a condition that can potentially cause permanent vison loss if not treated early. Of children who are diagnosed and treated before age 7, over 75% usually recover completely normal vision. Delaying treatment can result in permanent vision problems and after age 7, a higher percentage of patients will unfortunately not reach their full vision potential.”
In Virginia, it’s recommended that children receive a thorough hearing and vision test in kindergarten, 3rd, 7th and 10th grades. These are good baselines, but availability of screening by the school nurse or other staff does not guarantee that every child is tested or problems are detected with standard screening processes.
And vision testing really begins at birth and with each pediatric well-baby checkup thereafter. Even infants can follow lights and sounds as a part of the testing process. Dr. Couser explains that referrals from pediatricians make up a big part of his patient list.
“Pediatricians are great for front-line testing. They can refer to specialists if a potential problem is detected and this allows more thorough testing,” Dr. Couser says. “There is a difference in a vision screening versus a comprehensive exam so having that preliminary screening is efficient in finding issues.”
How WHEELS Works
“We are fortunate to have the WHEELS Program in Richmond. It is very unique and I’m not aware of any other screening program prior to kindergarten like this in the U.S. We have a model program here. And it’s an easy and free program for schools to offer.” The program has screened close to 7,000 kids so far and they are partnering with 70 school-related programs in the Richmond and surrounding area.
Dr. Couser explains how the program works:
- The WHEELS Program is scheduled at local schools or pre-schools.
- Screenings are conducted in collaboration with the school health nurse or day care coordinator, and delivered by a certified screener. The screenings are performed using the plusoptiX screening technology vision screener and the Welch Allyn OAE hearing screener, both highly advanced technological screening devices, meaning that the child does not have to physically respond to any commands, providing the most reliable results during the screening process.
- During the vision screening, which takes about 15 seconds, a digital camera like device is pointed at the child’s eyes and takes a series of pictures which are then analyzed by the screening software and a pass/refer is generated based on pre-determined parameters. During the hearing screening, which also takes about 15 seconds, a sterile-tipped sensor is placed just inside the opening of the ear, sending a series of frequency-controlled tones down the auditory passage, the tones are recorded and a pass/refer is generated again based on pre-determined parameters.
- The screening takes only a matter of seconds and it takes multiple digital pictures of the eyes and interprets the pictures and measurements to return a screening result.
- The screening program is free to the school and the parents.
- The screening identifies children who potentially have vision problems, some that could potentially cause permanent vision loss.
- Parents of children with potential problems receive confidential information that recommends seeing an eye specialist and includes the findings of the testing. Parents are free to choose any eye specialist for follow-up.
WHEELS assistance is available for scheduling in the cities of Richmond, Colonial Heights, Hopewell and Petersburg; and the counties of Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, Goochland, Powhatan, New Kent, Charles City, Lancaster, Northumberland, Richmond, Westmoreland, Amelia, Nottoway and Cumberland.
Dr. Couser emphasizes, “Thanks to a grant from MEDARVA Health Care Virginia, there is absolutely no charge to schools, kids and families for this screening. It’s a non-invasive, quick screening that could save the sight or hearing of a child. Staff are expertly trained and undergo background checks for safety and security. It’s an excellent program available to our community.”
Learn more about Dr. Couser and the WHEELS Program in this video or at MEDARVA.com.
Signs to watch for in children that MAY indicate a need for vision testing:
Squinting
Sitting closer to the TV
Headaches
Drop in grades
Head tilt
Red or irritated eyes
Drooping lid
Eyes shaking
Family history
Genetic abnormality
Eyes crossing after 3 months of age
