ASHLEY'S Connection with DRUMSTRONG

The following testimony is from PMT Employee, Ashley Tisdale, MT-BC: 


I started attending drumSTRONG after I met Scott and Mason Swimmer at Queens University of Charlotte three years ago.  DrumSTRONG supports local cancer initiatives through facilitating interactive rhythm events and drum circles in the community.  I was immediately hooked on the cause: "Drumming to beat cancer".  "You should come to the main event in May", Scott and Mason suggested.  So, I did... and I was FLOORED. 

DrumSTRONG is one of those events that you have to see to believe.  Drumming non-stop for 12 hours with people from 70 cities and 25 countries all over the world via live webcast.  Globally making connections.  People come from all over the state for the main event to drum in memory of or in support of friends and family - anyone effected by cancer.  Locally making connections.  Participants are given the option of writing prayer intentions to be shared with the group.  It's a beautiful experience to see people reaching out and supporting one another not just verbally or physically, but musically and rhythmically.  The beat of the drums is a powerful and cathartic release made accessible to all who enter the circle and share their spirit.  

We drum in memory of, in honor of, and in support of those who have lost their battle to cancer and those who are fighting.  Connected by the steady beat of the grandmother drum as it resonates in our hearts - We, as a community, drum for assurance, for hope, for love, for healing... We drum to beat cancer.  

This will be my third year attending and facilitating the drum circle at drumSTRONG's main event in Weddington, NC (Misty Meadows Farm).  With such great people and such a great cause, it's hard not to come back every year - in fact, I've started to plan my year around the event!  I sincerely hope that you will join this wonderful cause. 

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