Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Tonight's picture was taken in March of 2007. Mattie was in kindergarten that year. During his school's spring break, we went on a trip to Key West, Florida. We met up with Peter's parents and spent a week together. It was our first time visiting Key West. We flew into the Ft. Lauderdale airport and then drove, what felt like at least three hours, to get to the Keys. On our three hour drive, we stopped at this shop! Mattie was intrigued by all the shells and this bench in the shape of a hand. 

Quote of the day: Our animal friends teach us more than we could have expected …And love us more than we could have hoped …… That’s why we miss them more than we could have imagined. ~ Unknown

We used to board Sunny at a place in Alexandria, VA when we went away. That particular week my Sunny was featured on their screen in the lobby! He was the dog of the week. Actually in my opinion he was the dog of the century! A class act! Notice his most loveable quality mentioned.... his calm and gentle demeanor! 100% correct! When Sunny opened his mouth, he always looked like he was smiling!

Today, Mattie Miracle announced it's 15th anniversary Walk. It is hard to believe that we have been in existence this long! In some ways it seems like Mattie just died and in other ways, it feels like I was a mom eons ago. It is a conflicting feeling I continue to live with and face with each passing day and year. In fifteen years, we have accomplished so much, such as raising over $1.7million for the cause! We have funded six different child life positions, run four Snack & Item Carts, awarded over $25,000 in wishes to children with cancer, paid $10,000 in therapy grants, and supported over $165,000 in research grants. All achievements I am greatly proud of and that were guided by our experiences with Mattie. Mattie lives on through Mattie Miracle and as I always say, Mattie Miracle is my second baby. 

When you lose a child to cancer, and then create a Foundation, it is a passion that is indescribable. I have held many other positions in non-profits before. Sure I felt these roles were important, but they were nothing like the fierce loyalty, commitment, and protective nature I feel for Mattie Miracle. It is hard to describe this unless you sit in my shoes. I have devoted 15 years of my life to my second baby, that was created in memory of my first and only baby. In many ways, Mattie Miracle is a tribute of a mother's love and devotion, and though I could have done a lot with my life, I will never regret creating a living legacy for Mattie that has helped thousands of children and their families. 

Click on the image below to check out our Walk website. Help us make our 15th Walk the best one ever!!!