After raising her six children – Alec, Daniel, Billy, Stephen, Elizabeth, and Jane – Carol Baldwin was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1990. As a survivor, she made a commitment to help and support others facing the disease. For the last 32 years of her life, Carol worked tirelessly to raise money for researchers to learn more about the disease and find a cure. She launched the Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Fund, then the Carol M. Baldwin Fund of CNY (in her hometown of Syracuse). To date, their combined efforts have raised millions of dollars for medical research at Stony Brook University and SUNY Upstate Medical University.

Carol passed away on May 26, 2022, at the age of 92. But her daughter Beth, Executive Director of The Baldwin Fund, knew that her mom was still with her. Two days after Carol’s passing, a cardinal began banging on Beth’s window. For seven months, the cardinal made daily visits. “It’s said that cardinals appear when angels are near and they represent loved ones who have passed away,” says Beth. “They are seen as messengers from heaven who deliver love and comfort during difficult times.” 

One day in late fall 2022, the cardinal came close to the glass and lingered as Beth told her good morning. Beth sensed something was different. The bird came closer when she spoke, and Beth said a soft goodbye. “Winter came and I didn’t see the cardinal again. I began to think that might be the last time, that maybe it was just to help me mourn and say goodbye.” 

But when spring came, the cardinal returned. She sang loudly, letting Beth know she was back. “Carol the Cardinal is singing to me and letting me know that she is back and with me. My mother left a legacy. We can be Carol’s Cardinals here and support the mission she began. Together we will find a cure. We will help others and share love and compassion with those in need.”

Giving back is part of the mission of The Savage Homestead, a local mother-and-daughter-owned lifestyle brand. As an extension of their lives and family, the business reflects what co-owners Janine and Krista Savage love and value. “We’ve lost loved ones to cancer, and my sister-in-law’s sister is an inspiring breast cancer survivor,” said Janine. “Krista and I are honored to partner with The Baldwin Fund because we believe so strongly in the work they do.”

Janine has created a special edition hand-poured soy candle in a custom-blended Orange Blossom & French Vanilla fragrance to honor Carol. All proceeds from the sale of the Carol’s Cardinals candle will benefit The Baldwin Fund. They will be available for purchase in the Skaneateles boutique and online, and at The Baldwin Fund’s Annual Gala & Dinner at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown on November 3, 2023.

Together We Will Find a Cure

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