SPIRIT IN SISTERHOOD SHIFTS FOCUS TO VICTIMS OF AMERICAN TRAGEDY

Spirit in Sisterhood, an online store founded by three sisters who bonded during a family tragedy, is shifting its focus from support of breast cancer and Alzheimer's to support of the WTC tragedy.

FORT WAYNE, IND.-When Spirit in Sisterhood (SIS) was founded, the company dedicated a portion of its proceeds to benefit Alzheimers and breast cancer research, as a sort of living memorial to the women that had been lost to those diseases. After the tragedy on September 11, 2001, SIS has shifted its focus to helping those in direct need. Starting immediately, a portion of every sale made by SIS will be given to the disaster relief fund for the victims of the World Trade Center tragedy. Those people are our sisters, mothers and friends, too," says co-owner Joyce Oetting of Fort Wayne. Its a small gesture, but one that comes from our hearts."

Its the best way we know to honor the women who have had a powerful impact on our lives and the lives of others," adds Denise, sister of Joyce and co-owner of SIS. We have been so moved by this event, and want to reach out. If we can touch one life, that would make it all worthwhile."

The company was formed after the three Humphrey sisters, Barb, Denise, and Joyce, experienced the loss of their mother and a dear friend. They formed SIS, in honor of these women and as a means of helping them celebrate the sisterhood of women. The Humphrey sisters each had their own lives and careers, but were drawn to the idea of creating a company and a website that facilitated powerful connections between women. That site, www.sis-store.com has become more than an online retailer -- its also a gathering place where women can share their memories and their hearts.

SIS is dedicated to creating shared experiences, allowing women to acknowledge that special spirit called sisterhood -- symbolized by loyalty, friendship, fairness, strength, support, and understanding. The SIS catalog includes unique gifts that express a womans spirit for herself and for the special women in her life. Each item bears the SIS logo, a visual representation of sisterhood. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of SIS gift items will now be donated to the disaster relief fund for the World Trade Center victims. (END)