The beauty industry is filled with driven, passionate professionals who work hard and love what they do. For them, work isn't just a means of paying the bills; it's also a calling, one that gives them a sense of purpose and self.
Previously: CEW Crowns 2014 Beauty Insiders' Choice Award Winners
So imagine how devastating a cancer diagnosis can be: facing a loss of self-sufficiency and identity.
“As a breast cancer survivor, Sonia has lent her voice, passion and resources to help make Cancer and Careers the workplace authority it is today.”
This is where Cancer and Careers, partnering with Cosmetic Executive Women, comes in. The organization supports people with cancer by empowering and educating working people with cancer to continue their careers or discover new professional avenues. I highly recommend you visit the organization's site to learn more: www.cancerandcareers.org.
Further reading: Cultivating a Luxe Bath and Body Collection for the Mass Space
Cancer and Careers recently raised funds ($665,000) during the Cosmetic Executive Women Foundation's Beauty of Giving luncheon in New York. The event honored cancer survivor and beauty brand leader, Sonia Kashuk, who has been a strong supporter of Cancer and Careers.
The organization was praised for helping people with cancer keep up with their careers and maintain their sense of identity, for helping people "be who they are."
“The CEW Foundation is privileged to have industry leaders like Sonia Kashuk provide such strong support for Cancer and Careers,” said Kate Sweeney, executive director of CEW Foundation. “As a breast cancer survivor, Sonia has lent her voice, passion and resources to help make Cancer and Careers the workplace authority it is today.”
Celebrity spokesperson and longtime friend of Kashuk, Cindy Crawford, spoke eloquently of the honoree's bravery in the face of breast cancer. Crawford noted that cancer is a "family diagnosis," one that impacts patients and loved ones alike.
She added, "Sonia—you inspire me in so many ways. You are a true friend and celebrate your friends’ successes as much as your own. You are a creative force who never rests on her laurels but constantly strives for better. But most importantly, you are a tiger mother and wife who gives so much of herself to her family. Your unconditional love enables them to take on the world. I love you, friend!"
Carlotta Jacobson, president CEW, shared the impact a friend's recent diagnosis had had, underscoring the importance of Cancer and Careers' mission.
Taking the stage to a standing ovation, Kashuk noted that "empowerment is one of the greatest things we can give an individual after a cancer diagnosis."
She added, "When you continue to work, you continue to live."
Finally, thanking the audience and participating organizations, Kashuk concluded by quoting Maya Angelou:
“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
