Red Knapps Fundraiser

The Red Knapps Fundraiser last night was not only a great day shared with family and friends but also incredibly successful! I have to start right off by saying that had it not been for the tenacity and love of my wonderful mother in her quest to educate the world about the disease that stole her precious grand baby, this event would not have included Rett Syndrome. Let me explain. As you have no doubt read in this blog we are building Garden's of Hope around Rochester which are paper flowers that local business are selling to their customers for a $1 donation and posting in their shops. My mom took it upon herself to walk the streets of downtown and ask local businesses if they would help us grow these gardens. When she approached Knapps Dairy Bar about the flowers they were thrilled to help and as my mom began to explain Rett Syndrome to Miles, the owner, he very generously offered for us to join the fundraiser on April 20th that was originally for autism. We are so humbled by the generosity of Miles and the whole Knapps and McDonough family! Thank you for letting us be a part of this wonderful day and we hope to connect again on future fundraisers. And to my mom and greatest Grammy, we all love you and appreciate all the selfless things you do!

Monday started off cold and rainy and unfortunately it continued to rain throughout the day and all evening long. The morning started off slow and we began to feel a bit discouraged but by evening the dinner rush poured in and didn't stop until almost closing time! We had such a great time hanging out with friends and family and meeting new people. Everyone that came in was so generous, buying flowers and raffle tickets and supporting our worthy causes. The guests of honor - Jackson and Annie - were a little overwhelmed by all the people and noise and didn't stay too long but I'm sure they felt the love and support that this event brought. After the night was over I came home and reflected a bit. We've done many fundraisers in the past and the feeling in the end is always the same - despite the money raised they are all successful. I am always moved to tears afterwards at the love and compassion of the people around me. My family (as a never ceasing source of support) and our friends, neighbors and even strangers come together and show their support for one tiny, little, angel. Annie has touched so many lives I don't think I could even begin to count them. She is 4 years old and has never spoken a single word but her presence and even just a picture of her moves people. Why God chose us to watch over an angel and care for her I won't know until I'm Home, but one thing is for sure, I will continue to thank Him every day for this enourmous blessing.

Thanks again to all who attended!

The view from the street!

Standing room only!

Annie, feeling a bit overwhelmed!
Garden of Hope!

To all who were not able to attend but want to be part of our next event, get your walking shoes out! The Rett Strollathon is May 17th! Email me if you want to be part of Annie's A-Team.