from the editor

There’s Always Something To Be Thankful For!

This year Thanksgiving falls on Nov. 25, 2021, but the whole month is considered “National Gratitude Month,” after author Stacey Grewal advocated for it back in 2015.

After the tough times we’ve all been experiencing since the pandemic started, I think we should take some time to remind ourselves of our blessings and focus less on what seems to be lacking from our lives or stressing us out. We should do our best to show our gratitude to all the people who have helped keep our way of life continuing.

As part of Tampa Bay News and Lifestyles’ commitment to the Tampa Bay community, we regularly embrace many opportunities to show our gratitude, promote awareness, and give back to those in need.

In the spirit of gratefulness and giving back, I invite all of our readers to consider volunteering or donating (as much or as little as possible) to any local shelters or nonprofit organizations that support a cause that speaks to you and that you may be passionate about.

You may have heard of the term “Movember,” but do you know the meaning behind it? Is it just about funny facial hair, and how long can a man go without shaving?

The Movember Foundation was founded in 2003, and it is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of all the men in your life. The month’s commitment to MOVEMBER takes on three serious issues facing men’s health; prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health.

How To Participate? Use #MOVEMBER when you post on social media.

Bring the whole gang together, grandfather, dad, husband, boyfriend, best friend, and tell them this is what they need to do; 1. Grow your mustache! Whether patchy, lopsided, itchy, full of genuinely epic - whatever Mo you grow, your face will help raise funds and awareness for men’s health. The mustache is a powerful upperlip accessory, and it commands attention, demands a double-take, and can compel lifesaving conversations. Shave down on November 1st, then uphold the sacred rules of Mo Growing the entire month. Please visit https://us.movember.com/ for more information. 2. Commit to walking or running 60 miles, for every 60 men lost to suicide each hour.

3. Host an event to raise funds for charity or donate to a local charity of your choice.

This month also brings attention to a condition affecting more than 3 million people in the United States; Epilepsy. This life-long condition has no cure, and continued research is needed. Since epilepsy is the 4th most common neurological disease, it impacts everyone. This condition does not discriminate, and it can affect people of any age, gender, or cultural background.

The Epilepsy Services Foundation is a non-profit organization in Tampa Bay, Florida that offers programs and services designed to increase understanding of epilepsy and promote dialogue between persons with epilepsy, families, and others dealing with the impact of this condition. ESF offers current information, support, encouragement, and hope to persons struggling with the day-to-day challenges and fears associated with this chronic medical condition. To learn more or donate to this cause, please visit epilepsysf.org.

Additionally, November also marks “Adopt a Senior Pet Month.” The ASPCA and petfinder.com founded Adopt a Senior Pet Month to improve the perception of senior pets as quality animals for adoption. As the proud owner of 3 adorable shelter cats, one of them a grumpy looking yet extremely lovable and attention-seeking 10-year-old senior cat, I can tell you that they still have SO much love to give! A senior pet can be your favorite companion. They are usually well-trained, their personalities are already fully developed, they are incredibly thankful for you, and make wonderful loving pets.

Please visit your local pet shelter this November if you’re looking for a new 4-legged best friend. Multiple places will be running Senior Specials; Pasco County Animal Services will be hosting a $16 Senior Saturday (Age 6 and older) pet adoptions every Saturday ALL month long! So if you’re considering adopting, please give a senior pet a chance, they will be furrrever thankful!

Happy and safe Thanksgiving from all of us at Tampa Bay News and Lifestyles.

Until next time,

Carla M. Dubis Tedeschi.