Bakken Invitation Honoree Alumni

After surviving the ballistic missile threat in Hawaii, which I described, in my last blog post, I was ready to enjoy the experience of being a Bakken Invitation Honoree Alumni. Time for a field trip! Which I thought was perfect way to remind us that (even though we thought that we were going to die for 38 minutes) there are still good people in the world doing amazing things.

We were headed to Mala’ai Waimea Culinary Garden School. Their mission is to “cultivate the relationship between students and the land through growing and sharing nourishing food in our outdoor living classroom.” They host students from the local middle school at the garden and the kids experience hands on learning by planting and watching the growth. We got a tour of the grounds and found a Jackson Chameleon, which I just had to hold… oh and a chicken, but he really didn’t want to be photographed.

Then it was time for the 2018 honorees to get their awards. I was going to have a chance to shake the hand of Earl Bakken (Founder of Medtronic) and tell him that I have kept my promise to “Live on. Give on.” It was such an honor to have the opportunity to shake the hand of the man who was a pioneer in creating the technology that I use today.

The week brought a wealth of resources and I had the honor to meet some awe-inspiring people but I did have a few A-ha moments during the week in Hawaii that stuck with me…

 

1. Just by sharing your story once, you’ve started a movement. That’s the power of connecting with others. Our experiences might not be exactly the same, but we can relate to the fear, pain, loss and sadness with each other.

2. You cannot do it alone. Whether it’s an idea to launch a new Parkinson’s support group in your area or choosing to do a surgery to help your condition. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. That’s why you have a wolfpack to lean on.

 

3. We are stronger in numbers. The Bakken Initiation reflects that when people come together to share their work, we become a better community. I learned from all the presenters of what others have tried… what’s worked, what hasn’t. As we come together and combine our knowledge we become stronger.

4. We need to remember to our focus on our community, not just an individual’s personal success. Today, I can see that people pride themselves on their own achievements

5. Macadamia nut sticky buns are more addictive than any drug sold on the street. I’m still having withdrawals.

Well that was a small glimpse into my week in Kona as a Bakken Invitaiton Honoree Alumni.  I survived a missile threat, made new friends, got to hold a chameleon, took home a minor addiction to “stick to your buns” and got to shake the had of the man who has been instrumental in being able to Live on. Give on.