Time for THANK YOUs!

I just returned from my somewhat monthly dinner with a group of friends - very special friends. Somehow we started calling our group of nine the "Ya Ya's" - not real orignal, but it works for us. We have been meeting for about 10 years, I think. When I think of all the "thank yous" I owe people, my "Ya Ya's" are at the top. From food, to hospital visits, to support, to gift cards, to grading my papers - my "Ya Ya's" have been there. We started donating money each month for a worthy cause; everyone chipped in $10 and then one person used the money to help a person in need. I'm not certain when it started and I am not certain when we stopped, but tonight, they all chipped in their money to support Leapforacure. Our "Random Acts of Kindness" has hit home. One of us is a person in need. I can never express my gratitude to these wonderful friends who are always there. Thank you.

So, on my way home from dinner, I began to think about ALL the people who have been so kind and supportive. My work place - Millard North High School - has been fabulous! Starting last spring after diagnosis, my school has embraced Heather and my family with kindness and genuine concern. My English department colleagues will always have a special place in my heart for their understanding and patience with me. From my tears to my laughter to my asking for help, someone has always been there willing to lend a hand - or tissue. Last spring my school donated over $1,000 in gift cards to Heather and our family. Upon return this year, the Mustang Mart sold "Heather t-shirts" with profits going to Leap-for-a-Cure. And it isn't over yet! Another fundraiser is September 29 for the Powder Puff game. Thank you.

Tricia - my best friend from high school - your support and shared knowledge (Alan) has been incredibily imporant and special to me. Alan made me feel so much better when he gave me confidence in Heather's doctor, support for San Francisco, and encouragement to ask him any questions that we may have. Just knowing that I could call him and you at any time for help has been a blessing. I can hardly wait for our next reunion :)

Kathy and Ted - you know all that you have done for Heather and for us. Without your support, we would have another problem with which to deal. I can never thank you enough for loving Heather as you do. Thank you.

Jean (one of my "Ya-Ya's") - you have almost the same passion as I have with Leap-for-a-Cure. Sometimes you push me more than I push myself. I am tired. I am drained. But then you come along with enthusiasm and new ideas. You have been my rock! Thank you.

Bob and Robyn - you know the inspiration that you give to Heather, which in turn is good for all of us. Without Bob as a role model, Heather may not have the courage she needs to fight. She knows what she must do to win, and thanks to you, she knows it is possible. How can I ever thank you enough for that? And Robyn, when you fire off all your ideas, I love it! I feel your excitement and that makes me want to work harder at getting the word out. Thank you.

To Heather's Aunt Jill and Aunt Annie - thank you for showing Heather how much you love her. Aunt Annie's continued creative cards and ideas are always special. The Angel bear is a gift of love, and we all felt it - even though Robyn could not figure out how the "membership" worked :) And Aunt Jill, you offered us laughter at a time that I thought I could cry myself out of tears. Your family pulled through and provided what we needed: an escape from reality with Rock Band, Ping-Pong, and cards. Thank you.

Mike - We love you! What else can I say? You are the love of Heather's life and together the two of you will make a future. I am so proud of your support and understanding and love for Heather. You are there when she needs you and when we need you. Thank you.

Finally, Michele and Amy - you two have given me the support I need from two wonderful daughters! You have been there for Heather the entire time, and you also find time to support me when I need a little boost. Through tears and laughter, we have made it! Dad and I cannot be happier with our children, and you two have demonstrated how a family's love can be stronger than fear. Thank you.

And to all the other people that I have not mentioned by name - Heather's cousins, aunts and uncles, and her special friends - please know we know how much you care. And all the other people in our lives who have made a difference with phone calls, cards, emails, and prayers - THANK YOU!