The Story Behind the Collection...
In March of 1990, Donna Safer was diagnosed with Familial Adenomatos Polyposis (FAP), a rare form of hereditary colon cancer. She was 36 years old and it was just six weeks before her wedding. Unfortunately, Donna did not learn of her father's diagnosis of FAP until after she was diagnosed.
Donna has made it her mission to make people aware of colorectal cancer and the importance of knowing your family history and screening procedures. One of her many accomplishments was the passing of a duty to warn law which protects people at risk of hereditary diseases.
Donna wanted to do something to raise awareness of colon cancer. She contacted a friend, Jewelry designer Elise Rosenstock, and told her about CCA. She explained to Elise that Colon Cancer Alliance depended totally on donations and that she wanted to design a line of jewelry which could raise money for CCA. One Sunday afternoon, Donna brought a picture of the blue star, the national symbol for colorectal cancer, to Elise at her daughter's soccer tournament and asked her if she could design an enhancer (charm) to resemble this symbol. That's how it all started and eight months later we have a beautiful line of jewelry. Donna's hope is that by wearing this jewelry, it will raise awareness about colon cancer. It will provide an opportunity to talk with people about screening and prevention.
The blue star symbol represents the eternal memory of those people whose lives have been lost to colorectal cancer (CRC) and the shining hope for a future free of this disease. The blue star collection, designed by Elise Rosenstock of ElyseRyan, will serve as a reminder of the importance of screening and signify that people who have been touched by the disease are not alone. The jewelry is designed in sterling silver with blue and clear Swarovski crystals and the ElyseRyan signature toggle clasp with garnet cabochons. The colors were chosen to represent the colors of the blue star.
The enhancer is available in 2 sizes, $29 and $65. The necklace is available in 2 lengths, 16” $75 and 18” $85. Orders can be placed at www.ccalliance.org or www.ElyseRyan.com . A portion of the proceeds will benefit Colon Cancer Alliance. |
Colorectal Cancer is 90% beatable if detected early. In many cases, screening and testing can prevent colorectal cancer by finding and removing polyps before they become cancer. Know your family history and risk factors. Talk to your doctor about screening...it could save your life!