Kelli and I met via the internet almost 20 years ago (gosh its hard to believe its been that long). We met in person a few years after connecting on the Disneyboards. I was a part of the Disney scrapbook community at the time, and at one point we did a Secret Sister exchange. Kelli was my secret sister! To this day I believe it was God ordained that this lovely lady came into my life. Somehow through that experience we formed a bond and she is now known by family and friends as my Soul sista (one of only two people who hold that title).
I won't go into all of the details but over this last twenty years Kelli and her family have been a blessing to my family and have become like family to my husband, my children and myself.
We have even spent vacation time together!
You can read a bit about Kelli's family and their story here.
It continues to amaze me how my friend is able to carry on despite so much loss in her life. I know a big part of it is her faith in God and the strength she draws from her family (especially her husband Mike and her daughters Marlee Anne and Michala). This young couple amaze me. If you only knew what they have gone through.
Whenever I start to feel overwhelmed by my own circumstances I think of Kelli and Mike and I pull myself together (most of the time lol).
You will notice in the photo's that Kelli and Mike were the parents of three special needs Angels. Michala (who is featured in my video), her older sister Mary Elizabeth and her younger brother Abe. The reason I even say "were the parents" is because Abe and Elizabeth are no longer with us. But I know for sure that they are resting in our Abba Father's arms.
Of course I can't forget to mention their daughter Marlee Anne who is such a special young lady in her own rights. She is one of the sweetest most loving young people I have ever come in to contact with. I have watched her grow up over the years and her love for her siblings and the way her parents have raised her shows in the example she sets each day.
If you can't tell by now, this family means a lot to me and my family. And that is why Michala's story of survival is so extra special. This young lady (she is now 21) has survived the odds. Childhood cancer tried to take her out, but it did not succeed.
When I say this family has been through a lot I am not saying that lightly. But, despite their circumstances they continues to bless those around them (including my very own family). And each year they contribute in some way to the cause to fight and bring awareness to this crisis. Either through their time, their talent or monetary donations.
So when Nurse Elizabeth approached me about donating a pair of ears to give to a nurse in her ward to wear to help bring awareness to this cause I didn't hesitate at all. I have never really known of a way to thank my friends the Hopkins for all that they do and have done for my own family. They have blessed us in so many ways. To many times to count and I know I can never repay them for all that they have done for us. So I thought the least I could do was honoring them with my words. I hope it brings awareness to this fight in some small way. Please go and watch the video and like it. And if you would like to help Elizabeth has given me a few links to share. I also encourage you to seek out local organizations in your area. There are so many ways to be involved, volunteering at a local children's hospital or just help spread awareness to move others to action.
Organizations that Elizabeth recommended:
Isabella Santos Foundation
Cookies for Kids Cancer
Be the Match
Organizations Kelli and her family support:
Camp Sunshine
Give Kids The World
Make A Wish Foundation
The Miracle League
Relay for Life
