Of all the blessings and opportunities that come with being Mrs South Carolina International, the most humbling and rewarding by far is the ability of my role and "the crown" to impact others.
Making crowns and shields with the kids! From the sights and sounds of our activity, you would NEVER know we were in a hospital playroom! :)
In my time spent working with and for Ronald McDonald House Charities - fundraising, doing press and publicity, traveling to homes across the country, serving meals, and hosting drives to fund and supply the houses - I see first hand the impact of childhood illness on their families and loved ones.
In front of the RMDH "Family Room" in the hospital's lobby
Being able to spend time in the hospital with the children themselves was a unique and moving experience for me. The bravery and hope of these little miracles is inspiring to say the least! I laughed at antics (I learned that a child is a child whether at home or in the hospital!) and felt my heart swell to the point of explosion with admiration and love.
"Hey Princess! I wanna be your king!"
Contrary to what you would think, it is IMPOSSIBLE to be sad while you are there. Well, at least it was for me. The hope and love that fills each room is awe-inspiring. And beneath the tubes, machines, and illness, they are not patients, but KIDS. Sassy, funny, and wise-beyond-their-years children.
One of the most beautiful, sweet, and bravest girls I have ever met. My idol <3
I left my time at Palmetto Children's with a heart both light and full. While some might confuse the power of the crown with personal power, for me the difference is clear and most apparent on days like this. I am never more humbled than when I am wearing my crown and sash. The smiles and joy that I brought to each room I visited come from a power far beyond me and even the crown itself.. it comes from Above. And while I may never fully know or understand why God chose me for this incredible role and mission, I am never more grateful that he did.
Elizabeth Malvasia
Mrs South Carolina International 2011
