From Awareness to Action: Support for Cancer Research
George Oustayiannis
Managing Director at GO International. Director At The Balloon Academy. Association of Business Mentors. Institute of Leadership & Management. Advisory Board Hertfordshire University Business School.
This post deviates from my usual content, and in just a few moments, you'll understand why. As we navigate the path of life, we grow to appreciate the preciousness of time. We come to terms with the reality of saying goodbye to family, friends, and loved ones, realising our own vulnerability and mortality. With this newfound understanding, perhaps we even start considering how we leave a legacy, by investing in the hearts and minds of others, so that they, in turn, will make the world a better place long after we're gone.
It's been a year and three months since I bid farewell to my father. His last years were marked by difficult challenges, yet he persevered because he had the heart of a lion and a stubborn streak that put mine to shame. His unwavering resolve to live life on his terms, will always remain an enduring lesson. But there's another hero in this tale - my mother. Her unwavering love and care kept Dad with us longer than anyone thought possible.
For anyone who doubts the strength of women, they haven't met my mother. She's the pillar of our family, the glue that keeps us all united. If my mum were in charge of the country, there'd be no wars, no unemployment, no crime, no envy, and, of course, she would probably put a time limit to how long we could be on social media (maybe not such a bad idea!). I've witnessed her walk into a room of accountants, lawyers and bankers who looked down their noses, with an almost arrogant irreverence, because she was a woman, lacked a university degree, and…. was a foreigner. But by the time she left, they were in awe of her strength and abilities.
Our parents often start as our heroes, and eventually, we come to realise they're not infallible. Yet for me, Mum and Dad will forever remain my true heroes. Their unwavering love and support extended beyond immediate family, reaching anyone genuinely in need. I can’t even start to tell you how this infuriated me as a young boy. It seemed I was constantly sharing them and I just didn’t understand why. This lack of understanding intensified as the years went by and I saw how some that had been helped had little, if any appreciation. But as I grew older, I finally realised that helping others shouldn't be about expecting a reward, or even about being appreciated. It should come from a place where no thanks is necessary, because you are simply doing the right thing! Despite starting with nothing and achieving remarkable success, my parents true wealth was always measured by their generosity in helping others.
I've strived to emulate much of what they taught me, and on rare occasions, I've come close. But how do you compete with superheroes? It doesn't stop me from trying though. Right now, I've embarked on a challenge for Cancer Research UK: 100 press-ups a day throughout November.
As this and my email list reaches an audience of over 25,000 remarkable individuals, envision the impact we could make if each of you made a small contribution. Together, we could present an extraordinary gift to this remarkable charity. Despite this, I’ve set my goal at a very achievable ￡1,000. Regardless of your relationship with me, my company and our products and services—whether you're a friend, valued customer, someone who hasn't used us recently, I sincerely hope you've found value in my intentions and writings.
It's a rare occasion when I ask for anything, apart from my constant request for you to be a valued client of GO International. Why? Because I know we offer what you need to succeed and I genuinely believe no other company possesses the same level of passion, industry knowledge, product knowledge, experience, dedication and of course, stubbornness to never give in!
Today, however, I'm extending a heartfelt request for you to click the Cancer Research UK Link: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/georges-giving-page-1370 and join hands to make a meaningful difference. As each day approaches, and the 100 press-ups challenge looms, your support, regardless of its size, will be a priceless contribution. I will be profoundly grateful for your kindness and generosity. Together, we can honour the memory of my father and countless others we've lost, as well as all those battling illnesses of any kind. Let's make a resounding statement of unity and compassion.
Let's make November a month of meaningful impact and in the process, make me feel very sore and uncomfortable. I've been doing a little training and on Saturday I did my first 100 press-ups...Yesterday was a day of rest. Today I WILL Do 100, but all I can say at the moment is OUCH!!..........
With heartfelt thanks,
George Oustayiannis