Tuesday, September 29, 2009

the kindness of strangers
part 3


update: Unfortunately, I have no encouraging news to report on Avery’s condition (my coworker Amy’s daughter). She’s still very ill and doctors are now looking at possible surgical procedures (ear/nose/throat). My office held two benefit events last week, which raised more than $1,600 (with an additional $550 added to that, which came from the kindness of strangers) … a wonderful success, however Amy was taking care of Avery and unable to attend.

When Amy stopped by the office briefly to complete a couple of projects, she was gifted with the donations. She was completely touched and overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support by both her coworkers and perfect strangers.

On a side note … there’s a very special book on its way to Avery. My amazing mom, who believes in the power and beauty of words, sent a note to author Dallas Clayton (veryawesomeworld.com) upon hearing of Amy and Avery’s situation. For every copy of “An Awesome Book” Dallas sells, he gives one away. Having purchased the children’s book as a 30th b-day gift for me (the message is universally appealing and inspiring), my mom is very aware of how, well, awesome the story is … which is made even awesomer (yes, that’s a word) by Dallas’ pay it forward attitude. And yay (!!!) he’s paying it forward to Avery… a signed copy is in the mail.

Thanks again to everyone who has sent prayers, donations and unexpected words of awesomeness to Amy and Avery … here’s to the continued greatness that is the kindness of strangers.

1 comment:

mimipam said...

I am toooo excited about the book making it's way to Avery...in the hope that it can make even the slightest difference in how she feels on her down days. Yeah for you as the "cheer-leader" for all the oppressed and weary and yippee to all that were able to give to help them out at this crucial time. I am so proud of you and so thrilled to have been a teeny weeny part of this "pay it forward" effort. You make me so proud. lovemimi