My mother died in March 2000. She had multiple types of cancer. She also collected butterflies. So wehn I saw the Butterfly of Life charm I knew I had to to have one. I picked the one that has a diamond in it since that was my mother's birthstone. I wear it all the time and tell everyone about it. Thank you for helping me keep my mother with me at all times. Carol, York Springs PA Survivor Story on www.butterflyoflife.com
We were just at the University of Minnesota's student lead Relay for Life. There were so many students showing their support to help raise money to find a cure. Everyone was coming up and wanting to know the story behind The Butterfly of Life. I was so nice to be able to show them the pendants, charms, earrings and pins for cancer awareness.
The Butterfly of Life® was designed by ovarian cancer survivor, Rita Willaert, from St. Peter, Minnesota. Willaert works in sales at an independent jewelry store, Exclusively Diamonds, located in Mankato, Minnesota. Willaert’s passion for fine jewelry and drive to promote cancer awareness and education inspired The Butterfly of Life®. Willaert knew she wanted to create a beautiful piece of fine jewelry that survivors and supporters could wear that would donate to research and education. When thinking the task was too big, Willaert spent her day off outside on her deck enjoying the sunshine. It was at that moment that a butterfly whispered by her and she knew this was her mission.
The Butterfly of Life® was born and the concept has since evolved into 24 designs. Every design keeps the butterfly silhouette to represent courage, strength and most of all hope. The various gemstones and diamonds are used to symbolize a specific type of cancer. This way everyone can wear the butterfly for cancer awareness or in honor of a special person to make it their very own symbol.
Willaert and Exclusively Diamonds actively promote The Butterfly of Life® through local Relay for Life events, Hospice events, cancer support groups and more. The Butterfly of Life® collection is a connection between survivors and supporters and can trigger a bond or conversation. Willaert’s goal is to raise $1 million for cancer research and education. A portion of every butterfly sold is being donated to various charitable organizations.
Willaert has inspired many, touched countless survivors and supporters and is a true advocate for cancer awareness. She has endured chemotherapy, surgeries and tremendous pain that cancer brings. She has always strived to get better to come back to work at Exclusively Diamonds. Her inner strength has kept her going eight years. She is a remarkable woman that knows the meaning of fighting for a cure. Willaert’s design is her way of making a difference and allowing people to connect and share with other survivors and supporters. It’s through the butterfly that so many have contacted her to thank her for her inspiring spirit.
Currently The Butterfly of Life® is available at www.butterflyoflife.com and at Exclusively Diamonds.
