I had all intentions to say something at the benefit, but time escaped me and frankly, I was just overcome with emotion that I was not sure I would remember to say all I had hoped to, so now that I am home, I would like to share with you what I had prepared and hoped to say on that unforgettable day: I’d like to make this short and sweet, but I think ALL OF YOU deserve a little more time than that. Some have heard me say this before, but never did I think I’d be attending my own benefit. It’s all been so surreal, but it was such a joy to be amongst all of you; my family, friends and community that I hold so dear to me, your unending support has been phenomenal! There are so many people to thank; first and foremost, I want to thank Tim Cook, Kristina Olson and Kathy Olson for their generosity for allowing this wonderful event to take place here and for us to gather and support breast cancer. Also for your help with the beautiful poster, helping plan and organize as well as lining up the awesome band, The Cloudheads. I understand many hours were spent preparing this beautiful property, it’s just perfect here!! Next, to all whom I know that worked tirelessly putting all of this together. Although Paula and I weren’t really “allowed” to be involved, and I basically didn’t get to see any of you for at least a month or better, your efforts never went unnoticed! I knew you were all so busy dedicating your time to make this possible. It was killing me not to be able to help in some way, and each time I would ask, a firm “NO” was the reply. :) Now being here today, I get to see the fruits of your labor and it’s all just beyond fantastic! With that said, I would especially like to thank Jodie and David, Rachel and Scott, Cindy and Craig, and Leland and Carol for organizing and making it all come together. I’d also like to thank my Dad and Joe, as well as Paula’s family that also helped, either by donating money towards food, preparing the location, setting up, picking up auction items, cleaning, all tasks to help make it a go, you all really outdid yourselves! You are each so near and dear to me, you guys truly rocked this and I love you for this!! Also, huge thanks to Bruce Hamm for donating the hogs, Kenny Porth for processing them, and to Leland for cooking them to perfection! Additional thanks go out to Hog ‘n the Road, Econofoods, McDonalds, Lyle Hicks and other family/friends that helped donate towards the food/auction, and helped serve the delicious meal we all got to enjoy! To those that donated to the silent auction and chance drawing, UNBELIEVABLE, is all I can say!!! Your generosity is so evident in all the wonderful, beautiful items that were donated, all so very much appreciated!! I know putting this together was a big task and I appreciate all who were involved; Rachel helping organize it, along with others picking up items, and assisting with running it. And, to Ramsey Printing for their discounts and donations with the poster and auction sheets. I’d also like to thank all you hockey Mom’s and others who put together their time and goodies for the bake sale and/or silent auction. I appreciate our new found friendship through our wonderful kids and you being a part of this, means so much!! And now, I’d like to just say some words aside from the benefit if you would allow me a little bit longer…….I want to give a shout out to my dearest friends, Bonnie, Katie and Simon, Kayla and Brittny for coming to sit with Dan and I at chemo. You being there each time from the beginning and your support outside of those walls, made it that much more bearable and I don’t think we could have gotten through it without you……I actually always looked forward to the next time as I knew it was just another step closer and to also get to spend time with you again…….thanks for the laughs, hugs and some tears. Love you all so much! Now, I would like to thank my family, on my side as well as Dan’s, and best pals Jodie, Cindy, and Kris as well as many other special friends and co-workers I hold dear, you have been behind me from day one and without you, I don’t think I would have made it this far. I’ll never forget learning the devastating news of this horrible disease and having to share it with you, but you were all there lifting me up with your love and support. I always loved the phone calls, Mom and Dad, from the cabin, where I was wishing I could be, wrapping up in laughs and sometimes tears. And, I couldn’t ask for better brothers and their families, Joe and Julie, Scott, Rachel, Brady and Bella. I love being your seester! And, especially to my husband Dan, for your never ending care, love and support. You were with me from the start holding my hand through every moment, and that’s just what I needed each step of the way. We have a ways to go and I know you won’t let go of my hand. I love you! And Cassy, my best gal, your busyness is just the medicine I needed. I love you for that and so much more. I love being your Mom! Finally, I would like to thank all those that have battled cancer, either gone before us (cheers to you, Jenny!) or are currently in the fight, you have paved the way for us to be warriors like you. Again, I thank each and every one of you that played a part in the benefit; you all deserve a self-high five!! Please forgive me if I have overlooked something or someone. And, thanks to God for the glorious day we had and to each and every one of you that came out. I am so humbled by all the love and support shown through this event and then some. God bless, and love to all of youl!
Posted on: Thu, 02 Oct 2014 03:18:22 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015