Instead, Love decided to throw a party.
This was a party with a purpose, one that will elevate the public’s consciousness when it comes to dealing with, and overcoming, this malignant malady. Love and celebrity friends like Lisa Wu and Ed Hartwell, “Real Housewives of Atlanta‘s” Cynthia Bailey, former NFL star Bob Whitfield and deejay Tracy Steele joined her at Nancy’s Pizzeria in Atlanta’s trendy Buckhead district so that Love could relaunch “A Love Offering, Incorporated.” It will be a fundraising and educational vehicle that will be part of the frontline battle against this ruthless and indiscriminate killer called cancer. The official launch will take place in March 2011.
“I went through so many health ups and downs, I decided that either I could wallow in my sickness or be inspired by it,” Love said inside the high-decibel party that was stacked with friends and supporters. “I feel like my platform was to engage the entertainment industry and bring a conscious level of attention to the health and wellness.”
Lisa Wu Hartwell, multitalented actress and former “Real Housewives of Atlanta” cast member, got the party jumping as the host.
“I love [April] as a friend, as a sister and her story is very inspiring, very motivational. She’s battling cancer and instead of saying ,‘Whoa is me,’ she’s realizing what her purpose is and she’s using that to inspire other people. Although you have been diagnosed with it, you don’t have to wallow in it; [you can] educate other people. That’s what it’s about,“ Hartwell said. “It was just an honor to be a host of this because she’s a great friend and this is a great cause.”
Hartwell’s heartfelt speech was the only thing that could coax tears out of Love. Before and after the speech, Love was too busy fighting cancer — by partying.
“Too many people at the age of 20 and 30 are succumbing to diabetes and all levels of cancer and heart disease. It’s time for us to take on some levels of responsibilities. We can’t just put on a pink ribbon and just put on a party and be responsible,” Love said. –terry shropshire
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