IN HONOR OF NATALIE AND RANDY, A $250 ESTRELLA MOUNTAIN RESIDENTS CHARITY PROGRAM DONATION HAS BEEN MADE TO ASSISTANCE IN HEALTHCARE.
NATALIE & RANDY
JANUARY 22, 2016
Jen's Editing Note: I truly believe everything happens for a reason... good, bad, or otherwise. Today's feature sincerely reinforces that notion.
Sticking with the Estrella Mountain Residents page is one of the best decisions I've ever made. I've met so many incredible people through this endeavor. Randy Smith and Natalie Badolato are an example of the kind people in our community I'm proud to call neighbors.
In this feature, you'll see I'm a cancer survivor. At the height of my broadcasting career, I was diagnosed with throat cancer and lost my voice for two years. After multiple surgeries and another diagnosis, my husband and I chose to move our family to Arizona specifically so I could be treated at Mayo Clinic. My vocal cords have been clear and free since 2008 and I've just overcome a 7th round of skin cancer in the past month. My hurdles are absolutely nothing compared to what most cancer patients fight to survive and I thank my lucky stars every day for a supportive husband, daughter, parents and friends.
Randy and I had an opportunity to discuss his feature and I think we both agreed that during the struggles one faces in life... the best thing you can do is find the positive and make the most of it.
Natalie and I recently met and she's just the sweetest person ever. I really look forward to getting to know her better, too!
In sincere appreciation of both Natalie and Randy, our late spring Estrella Mountain Residents' charity donation will be going toward the charity of their choice... Arizona Assistance in Healthcare.
Randy, THANK YOU for taking the time to answer our Q&A!
Sticking with the Estrella Mountain Residents page is one of the best decisions I've ever made. I've met so many incredible people through this endeavor. Randy Smith and Natalie Badolato are an example of the kind people in our community I'm proud to call neighbors.
In this feature, you'll see I'm a cancer survivor. At the height of my broadcasting career, I was diagnosed with throat cancer and lost my voice for two years. After multiple surgeries and another diagnosis, my husband and I chose to move our family to Arizona specifically so I could be treated at Mayo Clinic. My vocal cords have been clear and free since 2008 and I've just overcome a 7th round of skin cancer in the past month. My hurdles are absolutely nothing compared to what most cancer patients fight to survive and I thank my lucky stars every day for a supportive husband, daughter, parents and friends.
Randy and I had an opportunity to discuss his feature and I think we both agreed that during the struggles one faces in life... the best thing you can do is find the positive and make the most of it.
Natalie and I recently met and she's just the sweetest person ever. I really look forward to getting to know her better, too!
In sincere appreciation of both Natalie and Randy, our late spring Estrella Mountain Residents' charity donation will be going toward the charity of their choice... Arizona Assistance in Healthcare.
Randy, THANK YOU for taking the time to answer our Q&A!
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Q. Where are you from and how did you choose to live in Estrella?
A. Natalie and I were born and raised in Orange County, California. We were classmates in Jr. High and High school -- becoming a couple would happen much later. I moved to Goodyear from California in 2004 to be near family. Natalie moved to Arizona from New York in 2009 to begin our life together. We looked around the West Valley, but loved the natural setting, amenities and activities available to the Estrella community. Our lovely house "up-the-hill" is perfect for us. I don't believe in waiting for good things to happen in life, but if it took that long to find true love, so be it. |
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Q. Can you please tell me a little about yourself and Natalie?
A. We both enjoyed growing-up in southern California. It was a wonderful time and place to be a kid. Sun, sand and surf in the 1970; stereotypical beach kids. We graduated high school and parted ways. Natalie and I saw each other again at our 20 year high school reunion and once again went our separate ways. Fast-forward nine years and we reconnected online. Romance blossomed and we decided to build a life together. We attended our 30 year reunion as a couple. Who knew that almost thirty years after we graduated, we would call beautiful Estrella home and be incredibly happy together. I don't believe in waiting for good things to happen in life, but if it took that long to find true love, so be it. We'll gladly accept it and celebrate the time we have together.
A. We both enjoyed growing-up in southern California. It was a wonderful time and place to be a kid. Sun, sand and surf in the 1970; stereotypical beach kids. We graduated high school and parted ways. Natalie and I saw each other again at our 20 year high school reunion and once again went our separate ways. Fast-forward nine years and we reconnected online. Romance blossomed and we decided to build a life together. We attended our 30 year reunion as a couple. Who knew that almost thirty years after we graduated, we would call beautiful Estrella home and be incredibly happy together. I don't believe in waiting for good things to happen in life, but if it took that long to find true love, so be it. We'll gladly accept it and celebrate the time we have together.
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During my sophomore year in high school, I suffered a spinal cord injury while diving into the surf at the beach. A sandbar created an unseen shallow and when I dove into the breakwater, the impact broke my neck. It was a tough blow to go from athlete to wheelchair -- but I was a tough kid and lucky to have supportive family and friends. I returned to my high school a week after coming home from a seven month rehab stay. The quick reintegration with peers and a normal class schedule proved important to my recovery. It contributed to the confidence I needed to move forward.
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It was a tough blow to go from athlete to wheelchair -- but I was a tough kid and lucky to have supportive family and friends.
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I went on to college for a marketing degree, became interested in computer technology, and converted that interest into a career in information technology management. Over the course of a thirty-year career, I worked for an engineering and tooling company, a software development firm, a national call-center, an industrial coating company, and finally, managing infrastructure projects for a private-equity firm. It was both challenging and rewarding. I'm now semi-retired and helping a small number of business clients align their profitability objectives with their information technology portfolio. There's always intriguing problems and the work keeps me sharp.
Natalie started her career as an executive assistant then shifted her focus to systems analysis in information technology. She now works at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Goodyear where she is a senior marketing specialist for the marketing team. Her favorite job to date was co-hosting The View on television for one glorious day in 2007. She has three grown children and two grandchildren in elementary school. She is a crafter extraordinaire, and her current crafting passion is working with paper. |
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Natalie is close to completing her first novel. Watching someone put eighty-thousand words to paper is an inspiring experience. The discipline and creativity on display is astounding. It's not easy, but her perseverance is carrying her to the end.
Q. What do you like to do in your free time?
A. We both enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the outdoors. Camping and exploring the beautiful, natural landscape of Arizona are favorite pastimes. We've been known to throw a line in the water at Saguaro and Canyon Lakes trying to hook whatever is willing to take the bait.
Our fondness for theater, good movies, good books and sporting events connect us to each other and the local community. We've adopted the local teams as our own and attend games throughout the seasons. Go Cardinals!
Photography is a life-long passion of mine; from documentary stills, to artistic abstract images, I'm fascinated by the power of imagery. Creating photographs that successfully express a personal vision is very rewarding. I recently joined the Estrella Photo Group. They are most willing to help you grow as a photographer. I recommend joining if you have a serious interest in photography.
Natalie is close to completing her first novel. Watching someone put eighty-thousand words to paper is an inspiring experience. The discipline and creativity on display is astounding. It's not easy, but her perseverance is carrying her to the end. She'll publish in 2016 and we'll celebrate such a fine accomplishment!
A. We both enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the outdoors. Camping and exploring the beautiful, natural landscape of Arizona are favorite pastimes. We've been known to throw a line in the water at Saguaro and Canyon Lakes trying to hook whatever is willing to take the bait.
Our fondness for theater, good movies, good books and sporting events connect us to each other and the local community. We've adopted the local teams as our own and attend games throughout the seasons. Go Cardinals!
Photography is a life-long passion of mine; from documentary stills, to artistic abstract images, I'm fascinated by the power of imagery. Creating photographs that successfully express a personal vision is very rewarding. I recently joined the Estrella Photo Group. They are most willing to help you grow as a photographer. I recommend joining if you have a serious interest in photography.
Natalie is close to completing her first novel. Watching someone put eighty-thousand words to paper is an inspiring experience. The discipline and creativity on display is astounding. It's not easy, but her perseverance is carrying her to the end. She'll publish in 2016 and we'll celebrate such a fine accomplishment!
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...the proper response to that recognition is not fear, but instead, making good decisions, taking nothing for granted, and doing our best as often as we can. Then if things don't go our way, we know we did everything within our control to create good outcomes. That's really all we can do. |
Q. Do you have any causes or organizations you support?
A. I support the Reeve-Irvine Research Center for spinal cord injury research. They're working on two fronts; developing treatments to stop permanent damage to the spinal cord after injury, and educating the injured about living with paralysis and moving forward with their lives. A cure will take time. In the meanwhile, people have a life to live. The educational programs reduce the cost of care by promoting well-being and encouraging healthy lifestyles after a spinal cord injury.
Natalie is a big supporter of Arizona Assistance in Healthcare. The organization raises funds for cancer patients in the West Valley. Specifically, for non-cancer related expenses such as groceries, utility bills, transportation, etc. Their work is important to the peace of mind of patients. Can you imagine being in the fight of your life against cancer and also worrying about paying for basic necessities?
A. I support the Reeve-Irvine Research Center for spinal cord injury research. They're working on two fronts; developing treatments to stop permanent damage to the spinal cord after injury, and educating the injured about living with paralysis and moving forward with their lives. A cure will take time. In the meanwhile, people have a life to live. The educational programs reduce the cost of care by promoting well-being and encouraging healthy lifestyles after a spinal cord injury.
Natalie is a big supporter of Arizona Assistance in Healthcare. The organization raises funds for cancer patients in the West Valley. Specifically, for non-cancer related expenses such as groceries, utility bills, transportation, etc. Their work is important to the peace of mind of patients. Can you imagine being in the fight of your life against cancer and also worrying about paying for basic necessities?
Q. My life changed the way I prioritize what's important when I received my cancer diagnosis. How has your injury and recovery changed your perspective about life?
A. Jen, I like the way you described it: "...I prioritize what's important.." Because doing what's important is an ongoing, deliberate process of choosing.
I think some elements in my perspective changed and others were reinforced. It's cliché, but I learned that nothing is guaranteed and our lives can be redirected without warning. Life is so routine at times that a drastic and permanent change seems beyond possibility. Unfortunately, it's not. However, the proper response to that recognition is not fear, but instead, making good decisions, taking nothing for granted, and doing our best as often as we can. Then if things don't go our way, we know we did everything within our control to create good outcomes. That's really all we can do.
If there is one lesson continually driven home over the years, it's the importance of staying enthusiastic about something in life. In this, I believe, we're all the same. It's hard to feel happy and fulfilled if we don't have something that gets us going. I kept my spirits up by continually finding new activities: "Photography, let's do it!" "Target shooting, let's try it!" "Fishing, yup!" If you don't find and engage in something important to you, you'll drift. That's an uninspiring and soul-numbing place to be.
A. Jen, I like the way you described it: "...I prioritize what's important.." Because doing what's important is an ongoing, deliberate process of choosing.
I think some elements in my perspective changed and others were reinforced. It's cliché, but I learned that nothing is guaranteed and our lives can be redirected without warning. Life is so routine at times that a drastic and permanent change seems beyond possibility. Unfortunately, it's not. However, the proper response to that recognition is not fear, but instead, making good decisions, taking nothing for granted, and doing our best as often as we can. Then if things don't go our way, we know we did everything within our control to create good outcomes. That's really all we can do.
If there is one lesson continually driven home over the years, it's the importance of staying enthusiastic about something in life. In this, I believe, we're all the same. It's hard to feel happy and fulfilled if we don't have something that gets us going. I kept my spirits up by continually finding new activities: "Photography, let's do it!" "Target shooting, let's try it!" "Fishing, yup!" If you don't find and engage in something important to you, you'll drift. That's an uninspiring and soul-numbing place to be.
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Q. What is something you think the City of Goodyear can do to support small business?
A. Continue to fund and support the Economic Development Division providing business assistance to Goodyear based businesses. Researching market opportunities is challenging and they can help with staff and guidance. As well, make sure that The Innovation Hub is well known throughout Goodyear high schools. Young people should know that local resources exist to support their entrepreneurial dreams. Kids today live in an age of almost free infrastructure support; cloud-based services, free marketing channels, and free product design software. They can start businesses with very little money and learn how to provide value and service to their customers and community. All they need is guidance. |
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Q. What would you like to see in Estrella over the next 10 years?
A. Nat and I would like to see a sit-down diner. We know it will take additional rooftops to make it economically viable. But having an eatery with a full breakfast and dinner menu we share with neighbors would be sweet. Beyond that, we hope the resources for teen activities keep pace with the population increase. We see it as vitally important to keep kids engaged and prideful in their community.
A. Nat and I would like to see a sit-down diner. We know it will take additional rooftops to make it economically viable. But having an eatery with a full breakfast and dinner menu we share with neighbors would be sweet. Beyond that, we hope the resources for teen activities keep pace with the population increase. We see it as vitally important to keep kids engaged and prideful in their community.
Nat and I would like to see a sit-down diner. We know it will take additional rooftops to make it economically viable. But having an eatery with a full breakfast and dinner menu we share with neighbors would be sweet. Beyond that, we hope the resources for teen activities keep pace with the population increase. We see it as vitally important to keep kids engaged and prideful in their community.
Q. What is your advice for new people moving to the area?
A. Explore and get involved. If you're inclined to spend time outdoors, take advantage of the fabulous trail system in Estrella. There are sections suitable for both beginners and advanced hikers and bikers. As well, explore the area along the Salt river and lake system to the east. It's a stunningly beautiful area with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, boating or fishing. We love it out there!
Estrella offers many clubs and events. Those benefits are not available in many neighborhoods. Take advantage of the opportunity to meet folks and have fun!
A. Explore and get involved. If you're inclined to spend time outdoors, take advantage of the fabulous trail system in Estrella. There are sections suitable for both beginners and advanced hikers and bikers. As well, explore the area along the Salt river and lake system to the east. It's a stunningly beautiful area with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, boating or fishing. We love it out there!
Estrella offers many clubs and events. Those benefits are not available in many neighborhoods. Take advantage of the opportunity to meet folks and have fun!
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The world seems crazy right now. But as bad as it may seem, can you imagine how our grandparents and great-grandparents felt when reading the news of a world war on two fronts? Their fears about the future? Like them, we can come together, focus our efforts, and come out on the other side of difficult times. We always have. |
Q. Anything you'd like to add?
A. We simply want to encourage others to remain hopeful in difficult times. The world seems crazy right now. But as bad as it may seem, can you imagine how our grandparents and great-grandparents felt when reading the news of a world war on two fronts? Their fears about the future? Like them, we can come together, focus our efforts, and come out on the other side of difficult times. We always have.
Natalie and I wish all of you a happy and prosperous 2016!
A. We simply want to encourage others to remain hopeful in difficult times. The world seems crazy right now. But as bad as it may seem, can you imagine how our grandparents and great-grandparents felt when reading the news of a world war on two fronts? Their fears about the future? Like them, we can come together, focus our efforts, and come out on the other side of difficult times. We always have.
Natalie and I wish all of you a happy and prosperous 2016!
CONNECT
CHECK OUT THESE ORGANIZATIONS MENTIONED IN TODAY'S FEATURE
Reeve-Irvine Research Institute On the Web
Arizona Assistance in Healthcare On the Web
Cancer Treatment Centers of America On the Web
Goodyear's Innovation Hub On the Web
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