Dear Friends and Family,

In my tradition, messy March seems appropriately Lenten. It is a messy, muddy season. 

Thankfully, health-wise, things are holding stable. Stable. Stable. Stable. Chemo is still a wild ride emotionally, physically, financially... but last week's round went smoothly. My oncology team predicts/hopes that we will continue on this every three-week rhythm for a full year at a minimum.  It's a little intimidating, but this rhythm of living with cancer continues to be so much better than a year ago. We can do this!

So, why messy March? Well, friends, because I was laid off from my full time job. I've been working full time through this cancer adventure as the Director of Fellows and Civic Engagement with Odyssey Impact. It was a small nonprofit that created social impact campaigns for documentary films on social justice issues. My work was to gather a cohort of faith leaders to learn to use films in their communities for civic engagement. It took me to Carlisle, England, Cairo, Egypt, and the Goat Mansion in Atlanta, Georgia (See pics!). It was a great gig for me, and I met some truly amazing, faithful leaders. However, Odyssey decided to change its organizational structure and so my program and the other departments were closed at the end of February. Hence, messy March.  So very Lenten... 

The past few weeks have been a crash course in disability, unemployment, marketplace insurance options, and today's job market. If anyone is looking for a program director, executive leadership, or an administrative educational program developer, I'm on the market. Leads are most welcome! (My email address is: leaschweitzllc@gmail.com)

I have also officially launched "Playdates with Death™" as a business project. 

Caring Bridge is where it got its start! As I have talked with people about this project, it's clear that serving those who are doing end-of-life planning is part of what's next for me. The path is still a little foggy but such is messy March!

So, beloved community, many of you have asked how you can help. This month I have four requests:

1. Become a free subscriber on my newly launched Playdates with Death™ substack. This is truly a help. Having a robust subscriber network is a key part of the business plan! It helps me partner with outstanding sponsors and experts.

2. Consider becoming a paid member and join us for a playdate! We'd love for you to join us to do some of your own end-of-life planning. You'll be in very good company, beautiful mortal! 

3. Help get the word out - invite your friends to become a member! The substack address is: playdateswithdeath.substack.com

4. And, lastly, if you have job leads or the means to continue to support our GoFundMe campaign, it is appreciated more than I can say. 

For all the ways you have supported us over the last year, thank you. And, thank you for considering some new ways of support.  Sending big love to each of you in and through whatever messy March is bringing your way! Lea