September 2007
It is still a bit surreal that I am indeed Miss Canada International. I suppose I was half expecting some fundamental change to set in during the first month and a half of my journey. Possibly I would acquire something to help me along my way, such as a more regal demeanor, or the power to speak diplomatically at all times. Obviously, I put too much stock in the science fiction books that I like to read, as alas, I am still the goofy farm girl that I have always been!
My rural roots have been an asset in providing many local opportunities to assist charities and meet the people of Canada. I visited Medicine Hat, Alberta, a city familiar to me in my youth as the nearest metropolis to our family farm. In Medicine Hat, I assisted with the Terry Fox Run, an event that truly embodies Canadian spirit. Beautiful weather, good attendance, and high spirits, combined to make this event successful. The total funds raised to support cancer research were double the amount raised at last year's event! I also visited four senior homes, and the children in the pediatric ward of the hospital, which provided me with many special personal memories.
With schools back in full-force, I was able to continue my work with Breakfast for Learning. I had the opportunity to visit George Davidson Elementary in Medicine Hat, Central School in Taber, AB and St. Joseph's in Coaldale, AB. I was honoured by the warm welcomes from the staff and students at each of the schools. In Taber, the mayor was even present to greet me! I helped hand out the meals and visited classrooms to discuss nutrition, my charities, and to take questions from the students. Some of the most common questions were; How did you become MCI? Are those real diamonds in the crown? and, How old are you? (Although I am nearly twenty-four, most kids guessed that I was about eighteen, with the exception of a second grade class who thought I was sixty! Kids are so endearing!)
To end off the month I was involved with a couple of local Calgary events. The first, Cardel Homes 'Walk a Mile in Her Shoes', was an entertaining event in support of the local women's shelter. Male celebrities, including Mayor Dave Bronconnier, took on the task of walking in high heels to raise pledge money. I was invited as a 'Lean-On-Me Lady' to provide much needed support to the wobbly gentlemen while walking the catwalk. I also had the opportunity to aid The Cerebral Palsy Association, a group that I have worked with for many years. Although I cannot continue my support as a dance instructor this year, I was able to assist as the guest speaker at their 'Life Without Limits Challenge'. It was an exciting day of physical challenges and team spirit that raised funds and awareness for the charity.
September has provided me many wonderful opportunities within my home province. I am delighted for the chance to support these local towns and cities that have been a part of my upbringing and I look forward to continuing my work in Alberta. I am also excited to discover new people, landscapes and cultures in the upcoming months as I travel both nationally and internationally promoting my sponsors and charities as a Canadian ambassador.
Sincerely,
Alesia Fieldberg - Miss Canada International 2008