I have been thinking about this blog post for awhile, trying to piece together how I could express the gratitude that I am feeling towards so many people. If you have been keeping up with our story, you know my mom had the idea to do a Mary Kay fundraiser for the helmet that Tyler needed but insurance denied. Not even in my wildest dreams could I have imagined the response we would have from friends, family, and our community. We even had someone from a local restaurant get in touch with us to do a fundraiser (stay tuned for more info). I am overjoyed to tell you that through the Mary Kay sales and donations, we have raised all the money needed for the helmet ($1,500)!!! We are also able to pay for a months worth (1 hour/week) of music therapy. This is another expense that insurance will not cover but we know that Tyler would benefit from. He LOVES music and research has show that this can provide benefits in many different areas. I want everyone to know how much our family appreciates everything and also our promise to pay it forward. Prior to Tyler's birth, we had the ability to contribute financially to many of the causes that touched our hearts. Since this is more difficult, we are committed to giving back with our time through volunteering. I want to also add that when we got the news that insurance denied coverage, I was heartbroken, frustrated, overwhelmed, {insert negative emotion here}. However, I was given yet another example of trusting God in all situations. I would have missed out on this lesson. I would have missed out on being a witness to the generosity and kindness that in today's world can often be overlooked.
Special thanks to:
Valerie Cole and Customers
Jim Cole and Thompkins Middle School Staff
Abigail Guessfeld and the Cardiac unit at Deaconess Hospital
Turonis Staff
Coffey Family and Friends
Roz VanHandle and Friends
Tina Pfingston and Friends
Oakhill Baptist Child Care Staff and Parents
and
the Most Awesome Life Group Members on the Planet!!!
My mom is a Mary Kay consultant and has offered to help with Tyler's helmet by doing a fundraiser. Mary Kay has a new Nourishine Plus Lip Gloss that is awesome and she will donate 100% of her profits from this product towards the helmet. If you are in the tri-state area, we will deliver the order to you. If you are out of the area, she will ship it to you for free. You can order directly from her website- www.marykay.com/vcole22
If you have any questions, email me directly at acole1984@yahoo.com
2011 was a crazy ride. I welcome a new year and new beginnings. I refuse to make any resolutions. 2012 will be year the year of positivity. These are just some simple thoughts I am going to try and remember this year....
Eat better
Be kind
Accept help
Follow through
Everything is going to be alright
Worrying solves nothing
Don't forget to have a good time
Keep calm
Don't think too much
I want everyone to know we sincerely appreciate you. Just taking the time to read this blog means something. I have been humbled and brought to tears by the outpouring of love and support by family, friends, and people we have never met. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I wish you all health and happiness in 2012 and look forward to seeing where it takes us on this journey.
