I spent the weekend in New Orleans as a special blogger correspondent for the American Cancer Society and More Birthdays at the Essence Music Festival. As a member of their Blogger Advisory Council I always jump at the chance to get involved to do what I can to help in their quest to create a world with less cancer and more birthdays.

At the Essence Music Festival, More Birthdays’ had one of the most happening booths. “Life Is Your Party” was the theme and it definitely was a party. They had a professional photo booth for great party pics, fun and giveaways – we even broke out the hoola-hoops. More Birthdays also took over the Essence.com stage each day of the event and held a birthday party where they gave away concert tickets, celebrated survivors on stage and, yes, the Soul Train line was in full effect.

We also held empowerment walks on Saturday and Sunday morning. One of the ladies who walked with us shared her family’s story with me as she’s lost several family members to cancer – some at a very young age. She’s a supporter of the American Cancer Society and took a quick minute to tell me why taking part in the programs means so much to her …

“Being apart of the walks helps me to help someone else be cured of this disease,” – Brenda Veal

In addition to making a donation, there are many ways you can actively get involved including Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, Relay For Life, and DetermiNation. I participated in DetermiNation for my second marathon. the Chicago Marathon in 2011, and had an AWESOME experience. I plan to do it again soon.

To find out more about these and other opportunities visit Cancer.org or MoreBirthdays.com.

Winks & Smiles,

Disclosure: My travel accommodations were provided by the American Cancer Society. As always, my thoughts and opinions are all my own.