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A Former Fly Girl Gets Down With Breast Cancer Awareness Month

marie-todd-article
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we've partnered up with jewelry and home fragrance line Marie Todd to bring you an exclusive boutique of awesome products that give back. A little something we found out about designer Lisa Marie Todd? She was a real-life Fly Girl. So, obviously we had to talk to her. Read on to get the scoop on this do-gooding dancer, and remember, when you shop her R29 Shops boutique, 30% of all proceeds will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation — win, win!
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Word on the street is you were once an In Loving Color Fly Girl (we're not worthy!). What was that like?
"Yes, it was an amazing time in my life. I was doing what I loved, working with talented people and just having a good time! One of my favorite memories was shooting and airing the show live — anything could happen at anytime, which made the censors very nervous!"

Do you still dance? If so, where and what time can we meet you there?
"In my kitchen, when I cook and at Zumba classes. Come join me!"

Why did you decide to stop acting and dancing and move on to jewelry design?
"I started studying metalsmithing with a master goldsmith in Los Angeles and fell in love with the process. A passion turned into a hobby, which then turned into a business. I love what I do, and am so excited to expand into a home-fragrance collection."  

What has made you so dedicated to the fight against breast cancer?
"I had a family member and friends who were diagnosed with breast cancer. Watching their strength and determination to reclaim health was a wake-up call for me. I wanted to find a way to help raise awareness, fight the disease, and provide information."

Why was it important to you to create this special collection of ribbon necklaces and candles? 
"I feel lucky I'm able to do what I love, and I wanted to give back in some way. For me, creating my version of the ribbon necklace represents strength, courage, and a commitment to finding a cure. The Bloom candle and diffuser have the spicy scent of roses, which always makes me feel positive, strong, and inspired. Knowing that these products can help further a good cause makes what I do more fulfilling."

Breast cancer is obviously top of mind in October, but do you have any advice on how to get involved with this issue on a more regular basis?
"There are fundraising events going on all year long like walks or runs. Donate money or your time as a volunteer with a local organization. The important thing is to just do something, no matter how small — every little bit helps!"

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