I have copied this from another board I belong to. It was posted on The Bristol Board, then I saw it on The Wench Forum. I thought it was worth sharing. I saw it yesterday and already voted yesterday and today. I will continue to vote everyday, and I hope other forum members will, too. I don't know her, but she is a brave young woman.
***********
Hey guys, I know we've had a few of those "vote for me" contests posted recently, but I think you'll agree with me that this one is worth posting as well. The story is below, but in short, the 19 year old woman in question is the daughter of a Bristolian, who suffers from a cancer that will cause her to have her leg and part of her pelvis amputated.
"Many of you know her, many do not. Her name is Casey, and she's got osteosarcoma, which is an aggressive bone cancer that is eating away at her as we speak. In about a month she'll be losing her right leg and a portion of her pelvis sufficient to prevent use of a prosthetic.
She's also 19 years old.
She has entered a "Love your body" contest hosted by Victoria's Secret. The shortened text can be found at the link below, but here is the full text of what she wanted to say:
"I don't love the parts of my body that are affected by cancer. I don't love my tumor, or any of the nerves it's currently pressing against. I don't love the bones it has weakened to the point that I will have to use crutches even after the fracture heals in order to avoid fracturing more bones. On the other hand, I love my legs because they transport me, because I like their shape, because they've been pretty reliable for the last 19 years. I love my legs because I can move my little toes out separate from the rest of my toes. I love them because they make it possible for me to get piggy back rides. I love them because they help me dance. I love them because they come in a pair, so even when my right leg is amputated, I can still enjoy these things with my left leg. I love my arms because they support my weight on my crutches and make it possible for me to still get around without having to ask for too much help. I love my fingers for being able to grasp some things while still holding on to the crutches, without always spilling or dropping those things. I love my body's tolerance for pain, and the fact that it can take so much without making me cry in front of people. I love it for the fact that I didn't cry that one time when they were trying to hook me up to the IV and kept digging around the more tender veins in my arms. I love my body even though it doesn't look like the Victoria's Secret "A Body For Every Body" ad to the right of my screen as I type this. I love it even though it's bald and can't sexily toy with its hair, even though it has no eyebrows to arch at men, even though its bra size is only a 36A, even though its weight fluctuates but will probably never have that flat of a stomach, even though it will soon only have one leg and some people will be disgusted by it.
I love it even though it's falling apart. I love it because it's mine."
The prize for this contest is a three-day all-expenses-paid trip to NYC, includung a full spa day and other pampering prizes that she could really use after all of this awful trauma.
http://www.bodybyvictoria.com/#/Gallery/880
That is the link. All you have to do is click it, and click the vote button. (If you don't have the most recent java flash player you will be asked to get that, but it only takes a minute.)
Casey has been frequenting the Bristol Renaissance Faire for several years, and is a dear friend of mine, as well as one of Traveler's "daughters." For those who know Traveler's Lady, Debby...Casey is her youngest daughter.
You can vote once a day, and it only takes a second. Right now she's being beaten by a guy with a goatee who writes haikus. I think we can show the world something better than that.
So please. Go vote. Pass along the link to your friends. Because she needs this right now. Not only the support, but also something to look forward to when she recovers from the amputation surgery.
I voted and will continue to vote. that is an eye opener, I have been complaining because of a bad ankle, but that reminded me to think that it could always be worse. give her a BIG hug for me.
What a heartbreakingly beautiful message. I'm having a hard time deciding whether to cry or shout Hazzah for her spirit. :( Thanks for sharing that Renee. I hope she gets that push to the top from our Ren community.
...besides...why is a guy running..and in the lead...for a Vicky's Secret contest. What's up with that? grrr....
Voted
voted
I voted too!
Thanks for sharing this here.
I voted.
As far as I am concerned, she's already won.
I just voted. Would you mind if I copied your post, Renee, and forwarded it to a number of women I know) and several men, as well)? I am absolutely certain that they would not only vote for Casey, but forward it to all the women they know, as well as most of the men...
I don't know this woman. I think wildthingjew does. Please feel free to copy it. It's not my post. I took it off the Wench Forum who took it off the Bristol Board. I went on the board today, and the guy who did Haiku is in 2nd place, and Casey is in 4th place. The other day, the guy had 3 thousand or so votes, now he has 32 thousand. And the guys in 1st and 3rd place have 75 thousand and 12 thousand. And they weren't even near the top when I looked. I wonder if there is a way for somebody with computer knowledge to arrange the computer to get those kind of votes.
Note: In BIG letters. I am NOT saying these guys did this. But it is awfully strange to go in 2 days from 3 thousand votes to 32 thousand votes. And from nowhere to over 75000 votes. It can happen, I guess, but I don't even know that many people!
Anyway, I wish she would win. There is 1 category for those with the most votes and another Judge's Choice award. Maybe she can win that.
yes i do personally know her, and oh my i have never in my life met a more timid, sweet, person in my whole life, everyone please forward this to anyone in your address books, and from what i have heard the only way that this man leading her could have that many votes is some sort of manipulation so please all of us lets vote and lets vote daily, also a tidbit of information is that she is in the us airforce stationed in california for now but she was at bristol last weekend and what a delight to see her out. thank you all for your time and well wishes.
voted
voted
voted
What a brave young lady with a beautiful spirit ! I wish her well. I voted !
voted
but I'm getting servers errors.
here is another post from CASEY'S FRIEND ON THE BRISTOL BOARD:
http://www.cafepress.com/Team_Casey is now open! Anyone who wants to can buy a tshirt to show their support for Casey! I'm requesting that anyone who buys merchandise take a photo of them with it and mail it to caseyforthewin@gmail.com so I can forward it to her. 100% of the proceeds from the shop w ill be sent right to Casey and her family to help them out.
Thanks everyone!
THANK YOU FROM ME TOO! FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT TO THIS YOUNG LADY, LOVE YA ALL CAUSE NOT A LARGER GROUP OF KIND HEARTED PEOPLE EXIST IN THE WORLD!
Went online again today, she is now in first place...keep the votes coming ya'll!
I'm so glad to hear she's in 1st. Looks like those guys were pulled off the site, probably bc of hacking and stacking votes. I'm not saying they did, but it's really not hard to do so. :\
#1 6502 votes
6557 now
I voted, and will continue!! What a brave and strong woman!
I voted and hope she wins!
My votes in
I tried to log on to do my daily vote but there seems to be an error on the page. It says "done" but there's nothing there. I will try again after work.
Voted.
Best way to increase votes quickly? Media.
That is, if Casey was willing. That sort of showing may not be what she was going for, so it would all be her decision.
As for the other guys, there are ways to make the numbers, and some of them are questionable habits.
I would reccommend talking the IT types that work this forum, they might know a way that was perfectly legit.
Now, isn't it Body by Victoria's pergagotive to choose the finalist themselves?
Or, are they going to go soley on the popularity contest?
Per the rules, top vote wins the prize...though there is an additional prize selected by VS themselves.
I am voting daily, not because this was posted on a Rennie site, nor because she is associated with a Rennie, but because she flat out deserves it. Strength and spirit well beyond my comprehension.
Quote from: Noble Dreg on August 26, 2009, 05:11:09 PM
Per the rules, top vote wins the prize...though there is an additional prize selected by VS themselves.
I am voting daily, not because this was posted on a Rennie site, nor because she is associated with a Rennie, but because she flat out deserves it. Strength and spirit well beyond my comprehension.
this is so true, i gotta tell you all, you honestly could not meet a more deserving girl in your life, what a truly remarkable child this girl truly is!
7873 votes
8093
8141
8954
It finally let me vote (tried last week but the site would never load, for some reason). I'm glad to see she's in first now.
Quote from: wildthingjew on August 25, 2009, 09:06:05 AM
here is another post from CASEY'S FRIEND ON THE BRISTOL BOARD:
http://www.cafepress.com/Team_Casey is now open! Anyone who wants to can buy a tshirt to show their support for Casey! I'm requesting that anyone who buys merchandise take a photo of them with it and mail it to caseyforthewin@gmail.com so I can forward it to her. 100% of the proceeds from the shop w ill be sent right to Casey and her family to help them out.
Thanks everyone!
THANK YOU FROM ME TOO! FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT TO THIS YOUNG LADY, LOVE YA ALL CAUSE NOT A LARGER GROUP OF KIND HEARTED PEOPLE EXIST IN THE WORLD!
a new post on the bristol board with a response to a question from a friend of mine that lost his wife last tuesday to cancer, inquiring as to being able to make a donation direct without purchasing an item.
"For all who were wondering, there is now a paypal. It's all set up now and ready to receive donations! The email address is caseyforthewin@gmail.com
I can't seem to find anything like a URL that I can send you for easy donation, so if you need anything more than the email address let me know and I'll work on finding it.
As for myself, my communication may be a little touch-and-go until Tuesday, since I have a field training exercise until tuesday. I DO believe that I'll have free time in the evenings as well as internet access so communication should not be a problem. If you have trouble reaching me here, you can email me directly at fatalis.vox@gmail.com and it will go to my phone, so I can receive and answer there.
Thank you all for your love and support and help, it really is making a difference.
Love!"
9630 but now 2nd....
#1 has 12,000 +
#2 9863
10769
11215 but she's down to 4th.
hmmm, I sense foul play-again. On my way to vote.
I haven't had internet since last week, and I find it hard to believe that in 3 days, 3 people have passed Casey. I guess I'm prejudiced, but reading the responses of #1, #2, & #3, they sound like conceited little airheads.
Let's get Casey to win! Tell everyone you know and send the link to everyone in your email address books. I don't know her, and don't know her relative that works for Bristol, but she is one brave woman, and I have the greatest admiration for her.
Been trying for three days to get onto the website to vote again. Keeps giving errors.
12,369 I was getting errors for a couple of days, also, but it worked fine just now.
12,402 I was able to get to it tonight easy enough. And my wife has shared this on her mommy board, so there's another 50-60 voters.
Still says 12402
12669 but she's in 5th place now. :(
Quote from: Marietta Graziella on September 01, 2009, 07:35:52 AM
12669 but she's in 5th place now. :(
I just voted again...she's still in 5th. The girls ahead of her don't seem to have especially inspiring or creative reasons (although one does says she's researching a cure for cancer, so that's good). All one girl says is that she can wear "pretty little things!"... I can't imagine why that's ahead of Casey!
Finally managed to get back onto the site.
She's up to 13808
14069 and still in 5th :(
I'm having difficulties accessing the site. Keep getting server errors.
Well, regardless of the outcome she has still sent out an amazing message to a good many people. Many points in the good karma column for that from the big U.
I received an answer to the email I sent to VS the other day. Here it is below:
Dear Renee,
Thank you for your e-mail regarding the Love Your Body by Victoria contest. We appreciate your taking the time to share your concerns.
We assure you that your specific comments have been forwarded to the proper department. We appreciate your comments and take them seriously.
If we can assist you further, please reply to this e-mail or call anytime.
Renee, Victoria's Secret values you as a customer and it is our hope that you will grant us the opportunity to serve you again. Thank you for contacting Victoria's Secret.
Sincerely,
Brenda G.
VictoriasSecret.com Customer Service
15033, she's at #5
19042 and back in #1
HUZZAH!
And on a side note...
The former top 4 are now missing off of that list completely, thought it was odd that they came out of nowhere and straight to the top...
25125, in #1 place
27161 #1
Wowza, it says 83320 (I think...it's early...) and 1st this morning!
85723, #1
yes i was up about 2 am and it was no where near there, i wrote to them stating all the times that other people had tried cheating on this were removed now i guess that they are messing with her scores so that she get removed too.
I know I already voted this morning but just wanted to check the site. Found her #s to be at 108391. I read about some of the other contestants. Went back to Casey to check the #s and it had gone up to 108466. Refreshed the page and the #s changed to 108532. I just refreshed again and now it stands at 108847. And again 108908.
Am I wrong in thinking this may be very strange how dramatically the #s are rising?
113,774
???
Is it possible some former disgruntled contestant is messing with her numbers to get her kicked off?!
Quote from: Marietta Graziella on September 07, 2009, 04:43:31 PM
Is it possible some former disgruntled contestant is messing with her numbers to get her kicked off?!
That what I was thinking my self. >:(
As of now she's up to 266,781...and is in 2nd place, with 1st at 309,848 and 3rd is only at 4836 ???
Quote from: NoBill Lurker on September 07, 2009, 05:03:37 PM
As of now she's up to 266,781...and is in 2nd place, with 1st at 309,848 and 3rd is only at 4836 ???
That was the # it gave me this morning. I've been updating the page and it doesn't change. Strange.
Unless that initial post asking people to vote has gone viral, which is fairly easy to do with something so very moving as this sort of thing. Once it reaches critical mass it will be hitting literally hundreds of thousands of inboxes every day, if not more, and if even 1% of those people vote it's enough to make the numbers skyrocket. Holiday weekend means lots of people at home to check their email, also.
I sent it to 35 women, who each sent it to their list, and so on...
I met Casey!
And she is the most adorable, lovely young woman. We sat next to her at one of the shows. She had her hoodie up, so at first I didn't recognize her, of course, we weren't looking for her, so I didn't expect to see her. My husband was on my left, and when I went to talk to him, I glanced past him and at the same time, Casey turned her head to speak with her girlfriend, and I realized it was her.
So I jumped up and went over and asked, "Are you Casey?" and then I told her about the posting on this board and how everyone was voting for her, and she was so appreciative.
She is the bravest, most courageous young woman, and utterly charming. Please continue to vote for her. Since this thread is several pages long, I'm reposting the website.
http://www.bodybyvictoria.com/#/Gallery/880
Now she's in 2nd again...
I voted again today and the #s haven't change from yesterday when I voted.
26454
It wouldn't allow me to vote... is the contest over?
BTW, Casey is in FIRST PLACE!
I just went to vote for her and the 'vote' button is gone. And there's nothing on the page to indicate that the contest has ended. I have tried this in both Internet Explorer and Firefox.
Can anyone else confirm this?
I got the same thing, but she was the first picture listed on the Loved page.
posted to bristol board by the young lady that got all us rennies and our friends and families voting on this contest:
Post subject: CASEY HAS WON!Posted: Thu Sep 10, 2009 12:28 pm
So here's the deal: I am AWESOME and beat up the internet. I found the posts where people were admitting to spamvoting Casey and emailed them to VS, got brushed off so called my lawyer.
But in the end, they froze the vote to sort the real ones from the auto-generated ones. Today, they ended the contest (a week early) due to the tampering, and have posted the final results.
Casey has won by a margin of more than FIFTEEN THOUSAND LEGITIMATE VOTES, 26k to the 10k in second place.
You guys did this. You and everyone else who shared the link, the story, the support. Each and every one of you have impacted the life of this beautiful young girl, and we can never express our gratitude for it,
So on behalf of Casey, myself, and our family, from the bottom of my heart...
Thank you.
Love,
Vox
_________________
Kendall Steffen
Not-So-Random Red-Headed Rose-Girl
I just go goosebumps! Huzzah!
Well that's just wonderful. :) I'm glad VS was able to fairly determine the winner and I'm glad it was Casey.
I'm so glad they were able to sort though and throw out the fraudulent votes, to arrive at a valid and correct result.
It's really good to know that Casey Won!
Take Care,
David Baldock
i agree I'm glad she won and the people messing with the votes didn't succeed
Sooo happy to see that Casey has won.
That's just fantastic! Glad to hear that she's won.
Congratulations Casey! The most beautiful, honest, and deserving has prevailed!
HUZZAH!
Yayyy! This is truly great news. I'm glad to hear that someone so deserving won this contest, and that the cheaters and poopies were discovered.
It's not often in this world that the one who deserves something actually gets it, so it's wonderful to see this result! I hope they build an incredible ad campaign around Casey, and that she benefits enormously from it... :)
(http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c353/Knoty-Dragon/FUNNY/huzzah.png)
So glad to hear that Casey has won!
Been out of town on business for a week, couldn't vote... :'(
But I come back and see she won! Heck, she wins in my book regaurdless of this contest!
Huzzah!
Is there any update on this? I know she won the contest but what, exactly, has she "won"?
Quote from: Marietta Graziella on September 17, 2009, 07:51:59 AM
Is there any update on this? I know she won the contest but what, exactly, has she "won"?
There's a small description in the first post of this thread:
"
The prize for this contest is a three-day all-expenses-paid trip to NYC, including a full spa day and other pampering prizes that she could really use after all of this awful trauma."
Take Care,
David Baldock
According to wildthingjew, she went on Casey's live journal page, and the VS people decided that because of the vote tampering, they decided instead to pull 2 random winners (like out of a hat) instead of giving the trip to Casey, who had the most popular votes. They gave her a gift card.
I think that is horrible. I sent VS an email asking if this were true. I think if it is, everyone, and everyone you know, should bombard VS with emails that this is completely wrong. She won fair and square.
HERE IS CASEY'S OWN INPUT ON FACEBOOK:
Casey Pings:
For anyone who hasn't heard yet, I didn't win the VS contest. Because despite the fact that I won popular vote, they decided to give two judge's choice awards. They're giving me a $500 gift card, probably in the hopes that I won&#...039;t raise a shine storm. I won't. I'm fumbling exhausted. The idea of going to the media and getting even more attention does not appeal to me. I've been called Cancer belch enough already.
HERE IS A COPY OF A LETTER WRITTEN BY ONE OF HER VOTERS:
I am so very unhappy to learn that, after verifying the popular votes in the Body by Victoria contest, you ultimately decided to disregard those results and instead award your grand prizes to two judges' choices.
It was those of us who support Casey Pings who informed you, not only of the spamming that others were doing to get their contestants votes, but also that they were spamming Casey in an effort to get her disqualified. Until the spamming incidents, Casey's daily vote counts grew steadily and naturally, and at no point - not even when other contestants were using bots to generate votes for themselves! - did Casey fall out of the top ten.
Her votes were legitimately cast and she won this contest fairly. And she is now being told that, even though she followed all the rules, you have changed those rules and opted NOT to give her the prize she should have won. You have permitted cheaters and liars to influence your decision, and punished a young woman who acted with honesty and integrity throughout.
I will not do business with Victoria's Secret again. I realize that the loss of my business probably means nothing to you, as you have plenty of other customers, but I will be satisfied knowing that in so Victoria's Secret will never again be able to use a penny of my money to mismanage its business.
ANOTHER:
"I think that what you did to Casey Pings was absolutely abhorrent. You should have stated the ways you were going to be "randomly" selecting winners in the first place, before this contest started. I understand that you caught wind of "fraudulent behavior" and it was friends of CASEY that made this known to you in the first... Read More. ... Read MoreShe won that contest fair and square and what you have done by your "show of fairness" in giving her a $500 gift card is a joke. I will never shop at your store again, and I will be sure to tell my friends and family that your store is an ethical mess and that they should not shop there either. When you read the words "Social Responsibility" and "Ethics" in the future, remember this contest...and when your sales in the Midwest take a deep plunge you have only yourselves to thank for it."
MY LETTER WAS NOT SO NICE BUT I FORGOT TO COPY IT BEFORE I HIT SEND.
CASEY'S REPLY WHEN ONE OF HER FRIENDS CONNECTED WITH THE MEDIA MENTIONED MEDIA:
Casey Pings
Honestly, I considered it just for the fact that I think VS deserves a shiner bock storm right now, but I really have no desire at all to have any more attention on me after all of the bovine poopie with the forums. I can only imagine how much worse and more widespread it would be if I had the attention of the press. Plus, I really don't want to be turned into a huge pity story.
JUST GOT RESPONSE FROM VS INCLUDING A COPY OF THE LETTER I SENT TO THEM ORIGINALLY
Dear Jamie,
Thank you for your e-mail regarding the Love Your Body by Victoria contest. We appreciate your taking the time to share your concerns.
We assure you that your specific comments have been forwarded to the proper department. We appreciate your comments and take them seriously.
If we can assist you further, please reply to this e-mail or call anytime.
Jamie, Victoria's Secret values you as a customer and it is our hope that you will grant us the opportunity to serve you again. Thank you for contacting Victoria's Secret.
Sincerely,
Kimberly C.
VictoriasSecret.com Customer Service
Visit www.VictoriasSecret.com
Phone 1.800.475.1935 or (outside the U.S. and Canada) 1.937.438.4197
Fax 1.937.438.4290
--Original Message--
From: wildthingjew@yahoo.com
Date: 10/1/2009 9:32:53 PM
To: CustomerCare@VictoriasSecret.com
Subject: Comments and Suggestions
From: "jamie e grado" <wildthingjew@yahoo.com>
To: service@victoriassecret.com
Subject: Comments and Suggestions
O#
Comments:
i am totally disgusted by the way you handled the contest you provided, voters alerted you to the scam goin on with the votes and you punish the person that those people were voting for, trust me already everyone that has voted for the clear winner casey has been alerted to boycot your stores and website and are in the process of putting out the word to all that we alerted to the contest in the first place, your conduct aches my heart! thank you for your time and consideration
I've not had a response yet, but FYI, they are owned by Limited Brands, who also owns Bath & Body Works and La Senza (looks like a Canadian version of Victoria's Secret).
I've also posted my opinion on my blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace is next...
I wonder how the LiveStrong campaign at the Lance Armstrong foundation would think about this.
I received the exact same email as wildthingjew - word for word. I think this is outrageous. How horrible they are.
Here is a copy of the letter I sent. I don't know Casey but this whole thing is just wrong.
Dear contest judges,
I am writing to express my extreme displeasure at your handling of the "Love Your Body by Victoria contest".
I believe your actions in choosing "Judges Choice" winners and the pathetic attempt to conciliate by offering Casey Pings an insulting $500 gift card are unconscionable.
I do not know Casey Pings. I have no affiliation with her whatsoever so I believe I speak honestly and without biased.
Casey Pings is not a Victoria Secret pin up girl. She doesn't have long thick hair, big breasts, or the right body. You wouldn't have her as a model in your future campaigns and THAT is why you changed the rules. This contest wasn't looking for someone who truly and honestly loves their body. This contest was looking for a vapid beauty queen that you could parade around in public.
Casey was not like the other contestants in that she faces physical and emotional challenges every day. She had the courage to show herself to the world by joining this contest, risking ridicule, accusation, and rejection. She put herself out to the public, hoping they'd see the truth and beauty of her on the inside as she sees herself; and they did! The people voted for her. They supported her! But you crushed an opportunity for people to embrace themselves no matter what size, shape, or condition their body might be in. You proved to her, and to those who voted for her, that it's more important to be beautiful on the outside, than the inside. Instead of generating more business for your company by embracing all body types you have only reinforced your own stereotypical and pigeon-holed idea of beauty.
I will be certain to post this letter and any letter of response from you, provided it is not a canned "we're sorry, we hope to earn you business back" nonsense computer generated response, on my internet connections.
Let me reiterate that this is not about getting Casey Pings a bigger prize. After what you have put this poor woman through you'd be lucky if she returned your calls. This is about women. Women loving themselves, their bodies, and all their flaws. Women believing they don't have to be a Victoria Secret Super Model to be beautiful. In this matter I believe you have failed all women. I also believe I'll be taking my business and my money elsewhere since I don't quite meet up to your ideas of beauty, either. And you know what, neither do my friends.
Written most sincerely,
Dena SXXXXXXX
MN
Quote from: Marietta Graziella on October 04, 2009, 08:31:13 AM
Here is a copy of the letter I sent. I don't know Casey but this whole thing is just wrong.
Dear contest judges,
I am writing to express my extreme displeasure at your handling of the "Love Your Body by Victoria contest".
I believe your actions in choosing "Judges Choice" winners and the pathetic attempt to conciliate by offering Casey Pings an insulting $500 gift card are unconscionable.
I do not know Casey Pings. I have no affiliation with her whatsoever so I believe I speak honestly and without biased.
Casey Pings is not a Victoria Secret pin up girl. She doesn't have long thick hair, big breasts, or the right body. You wouldn't have her as a model in your future campaigns and THAT is why you changed the rules. This contest wasn't looking for someone who truly and honestly loves their body. This contest was looking for a vapid beauty queen that you could parade around in public.
Casey was not like the other contestants in that she faces physical and emotional challenges every day. She had the courage to show herself to the world by joining this contest, risking ridicule, accusation, and rejection. She put herself out to the public, hoping they'd see the truth and beauty of her on the inside as she sees herself; and they did! The people voted for her. They supported her! But you crushed an opportunity for people to embrace themselves no matter what size, shape, or condition their body might be in. You proved to her, and to those who voted for her, that it's more important to be beautiful on the outside, than the inside. Instead of generating more business for your company by embracing all body types you have only reinforced your own stereotypical and pigeon-holed idea of beauty.
I will be certain to post this letter and any letter of response from you, provided it is not a canned "we're sorry, we hope to earn you business back" nonsense computer generated response, on my internet connections.
Let me reiterate that this is not about getting Casey Pings a bigger prize. After what you have put this poor woman through you'd be lucky if she returned your calls. This is about women. Women loving themselves, their bodies, and all their flaws. Women believing they don't have to be a Victoria Secret Super Model to be beautiful. In this matter I believe you have failed all women. I also believe I'll be taking my business and my money elsewhere since I don't quite meet up to your ideas of beauty, either. And you know what, neither do my friends.
Written most sincerely,
Dena SXXXXXXX
MN
I HAVE TO TELL ALL OF YOU THAT HAVE POSTED TO THIS SUBJECT EITHER THROUGH THIS WEBSITE OR ANY OTHERS "THAT ALL OF YOU MAKE ME SO PROUD TO BE A RENNIE! CAUSE THERE ARE NO TRUER HEARTS OUT THERE!
I think it is very possible that you are spot on Marietta. I hate to think that's what lurks beneath this, and it's possible there are other reasons not clear to us, but I think VS took an easy out. I'll be composing and sending my own thoughts to VS.
We ran into Casey yesterday at Stronghold Renaissance Faire, and she is more beautiful than words can describe. And very sweet, bubbly, and smiled the whole time we talked about knitting. It was such a raw deal done to her.
Unfortunately, on the 3 forums that I belong to, everyone who has written to VS has received the same automated response. I don't know if anything will be done unless Casey gives her permission to go to the media, and that is her choice whether or not to do so.
I haven't even gotten a response at all from VS, nor have I gotten one from Bath & Body Works, who is also owned by the parent company Limited Brands. I am also boycotting B&BW, and made sure that they know it, in the hopes that they will forward the information to Limited Brands, who, of course, has no electronic contact information, however I did find these addresses on their website, for anyone that wants to notify the parent company.
Limited Brands
Three Limited Parkway
Columbus, OH 43230
614-415-7000
Limited Brands - NY Offices
1114 Avenue of the Americas
24th Floor
New York, NY 10036
212-884-3000
Lady Renee, I suspect you are right that there may not be anything really done without media information, but Casey responded to my comment on her LJ that someone had contacted the media without asking her or her family, and she's not happy about that, and is hoping that the media will respect her wishes not to be in the spotlight anymore.
this was just posted to the bristol board by casey's friend, the one that got us all started on this contest in the first place, lets hope that they stand by their word
THIS JUST IN!
We are disappointed that a few cheaters negatively impacted something that was supposed to be fun and uplifting. While legally we were not allowed to influence the independent judges or add Casey as another winner, we are honoring her with a trip to New York City including airfare, hotel, spa visit and dinner for two plus a $500 Victoria's Secret gift card.
We are sorry for the confusion and disappointment that this unfortunate circumstance has caused. We hope that going the extra step for Casey inspires her like she has inspired all of us.
Kendalll, thank you for contacting Victoria's Secret.
Sincerely,
Iris I.
VictoriasSecret.com Customer Service
Awesome. :) I just *knew* a place that held such cute frillies couldn't be all bad.
Here is the complete letter I just received from Victoria Secret...
Dear Dena,
Thank you for your e-mail expressing your concern for Casey. Like all of you, our team of contest organizers has also been inspired her story.
Unfortunately, the contest did not turn out like any of us planned. Due to illegal voting by a few cheaters, the contest had to be ended. As a result, an independent judging panel reviewed the 50 "most loved" entries in no particular order. While Casey was not selected, it was evident throughout the contest that she is an inspiration to all of us.
The independent judges selected two individuals, Jillian and Charis, who have their own inspiring stories and outlooks on life:
Jillian's story – "I have always been the biggest critic of myself, both inside and out. When I suffered 3rd degree burns in a kitchen fire 2 years ago, ended up in ICU for 7 days and had to have skin graft surgery, it changed so much about me. I realized the true definition of gratitude. The scars on my arms and hands have now just become a tattoo that I proudly wear to represent how brave I never realized I am."
Charis's story – "I love my body because it's MY body, no one else has it & there's no other body like it. I embrace my shape, my curves, & I carry myself as so. Because I'm confident in the way that I walk & stand & carry myself, it makes my body look beautiful. God gave me this body therefore I'm going to show off every inch of it in the most respectful and beautiful way. I LOVE MY BODY because it's ALL MINE!"
We are disappointed that a few cheaters negatively impacted something that was supposed to be fun and uplifting. While legally we were not allowed to influence the independent judges or add Casey as another winner, we are honoring her with a trip to New York City including airfare, hotel, spa visit and dinner for two plus a $500 Victoria's Secret gift card.
Dena, We are sorry for the confusion and disappointment that this unfortunate circumstance has caused. We hope that going the extra step for Casey inspires her like she has inspired all of us.
Sincerely,
Jessica T.
WOOHOO!!!
I went to vote before seeing the end of this thread
She is a incredible lady and deserves that and so much more..
Excellent! It was the right thing to do... though they may have come to it late in the game, it was still the right thing in the end. And a Huzzah to all the ren folk and their support - what an amazing community.
Wow, how cool of them...I may just go there today and pick something up...for the wife... ;)
Quote from: Noble Dreg on October 07, 2009, 07:57:35 AM
Wow, how cool of them...I may just go there today and pick something up...for the wife... ;)
Sure... whatever, Dreg. I saw you enjoying that pickle. :P :D ;)
cool of them? they make things right because alot of people write letters, what about the right thing in the first place?
here is the letter that i just now got from them.
Victoria's Secret [#459610]
Wednesday, October 7, 2009 8:33:46 AMFrom: Victoria's Secret Customer Care <CustomerCare@VictoriasSecret.com>Add to Contacts
To: wildthingjew@yahoo.com
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Jamie,
Thank you for your e-mail expressing your concern for Casey. Like all of you, our team of contest organizers have also been inspired by her story.
Unfortunately, the contest did not turn out like any of us planned. Due to illegal voting by a few cheaters, the contest had to be ended. As a result, an independent judging panel reviewed the 50 "most loved" entries in no particular order. While Casey was not selected, it was evident throughout the contest that she is an inspiration to all of us.
The independent judges selected two individuals, Jillian and Charis, who have their own inspiring stories and outlooks on life: ·
Jillian's story – "I have always been the biggest critic of myself, both inside and out. When I suffered 3rd degree burns in a kitchen fire 2 years ago, ended up in ICU for 7 days and had to have skin graft surgery, it changed so much about me. I realized the true definition of gratitude. The scars on my arms and hands have now just become a tattoo that I proudly wear to represent how brave I never realized I am."
Charis's story – "I love my body because it's MY body, no one else has it & there's no other body like it. I embrace my shape, my curves, & I carry myself as so. Because I'm confident in the way that I walk & stand & carry myself, it makes my body look beautiful. God gave me this body therefore I'm going to show off every inch of it in the most respectful and beautiful way. I LOVE MY BODY because it's ALL MINE!"
We are disappointed that a few cheaters negatively impacted something that was supposed to be fun and uplifting. While legally we were not allowed to influence the independent judges or add Casey as another winner, we are honoring her with a trip to New York City including airfare, hotel, spa visit and dinner for two plus a $500 Victoria's Secret gift card.
We are sorry for the confusion and disappointment that this unfortunate circumstance has caused. We hope that going the extra step for Casey inspires her like she has inspired all of us.
Jamie, thank you for contacting Victoria's Secret.
Sincerely,
Jessica M.
VictoriasSecret.com Customer Service
Visit www.VictoriasSecret.com
Phone 1.800.475.1935 or (outside the U.S. and Canada) 1.937.438.4197
Fax 1.937.438.4290
Well, we really don't know what their reasons were, corporations usually have a ton of lawyers looking at all the legal ramifications of any decision and yes people often have to be reminded of what really matters in order to do the right thing. I'm just glad for Casey that she'll get such a wonderful trip and that she *was* able to touch so many lives in such a positive way. This is a win. It's time to be glad.
WHAT I WILL SAY IS THAT I READ THE RULES WHEN THE ORIGINAL CONTEST GOT UNDERWAY WAS THAT THE #1 WOULD WIN AND THEN THEY WOULD HAVE AN INDEPENDENT JUDGE CHOOSE ANOTHER PERSON SO THAT A TOTAL OF 2 PRIZES WOULD BE GIVEN OUT.
Here's the email that was in my box today when I got home from work:
Dear Renee,
Thank you for your e-mail expressing your concern for Casey. Like all of you, our team of contest organizers have also been inspired by her story.
Unfortunately, the contest did not turn out like any of us planned. Due to illegal voting by a few cheaters, the contest had to be ended. As a result, an independent judging panel reviewed the 50 "most loved" entries in no particular order. While Casey was not selected, it was evident throughout the contest that she is an inspiration to all of us.
The independent judges selected two individuals, Jillian and Charis, who have their own inspiring stories and outlooks on life: ·
Jillian's story – "I have always been the biggest critic of myself, both inside and out. When I suffered 3rd degree burns in a kitchen fire 2 years ago, ended up in ICU for 7 days and had to have skin graft surgery, it changed so much about me. I realized the true definition of gratitude. The scars on my arms and hands have now just become a tattoo that I proudly wear to represent how brave I never realized I am."
Charis's story – "I love my body because it's MY body, no one else has it & there's no other body like it. I embrace my shape, my curves, & I carry myself as so. Because I'm confident in the way that I walk & stand & carry myself, it makes my body look beautiful. God gave me this body therefore I'm going to show off every inch of it in the most respectful and beautiful way. I LOVE MY BODY because it's ALL MINE!"
We are disappointed that a few cheaters negatively impacted something that was supposed to be fun and uplifting. While legally we were not allowed to influence the independent judges or add Casey as another winner, we are honoring her with a trip to New York City including airfare, hotel, spa visit and dinner for two plus a $500 Victoria's Secret gift card.
We are sorry for the confusion and disappointment that this unfortunate circumstance has caused. We hope that going the extra step for Casey inspires her like she has inspired all of us.
Renee, thank you for contacting Victoria's Secret.
Sincerely,
Jessica M.
VictoriasSecret.com Customer Service
Visit www.VictoriasSecret.com
Phone 1.800.475.1935 or (outside the U.S. and Canada) 1.937.438.4197
Fax 1.937.438.4290
this was just posted to facebook by casey's mother "Today I take Casey and Mandy to the airport. It is off to New York for them. Thank you again to all who helped make this work!"
and thank you all for me too!
I have thought of this saga from time to time...A great story with what I hope are many happy endings in store for the future. Thanks for the update.
Wishing them both a wonderful time and unforgettable time.