Clarence got his wings.....

The excitement of the Donor Drive is now a part of history and so we look forward to that of The Spaghetti Dinner!!! And who doesn't like to EAT!?!?!? But before we talk about that, let me reflect upon January 17th. Our family has many people to thank for making the Drive a huge success! For the last 3 months, many friends, family and businesses have helped us raise funds to cover the cost of testing, yet the majority of those who came generously took care of the cost themselves! This gives us additional dollars for upcoming expenses. Thank you all!!! Before the event, I wasn't really sure just what to expect. Of course, we were hoping for a great turnout. But just what is "great"? Jessica from the Marrow Program said that any number of people who are added into the Registry, would make it a great turnout! So I imagine that adding 183 (+60 mail-in kits) makes it exceptional!!! With the weather as cold as it was, we were afraid that could keep people away. How wrong were we!!! It was nearly a "constant busy" within the Community Room and we're told that the parking lot was full most of the time! Soooo many young friends of Jessica came to support her, and it was very nice to see these faces that have been absent for so long! And how about Valerie, my old high school bud, who I haven't seen in many years, who came with her husband to be tested and give us her support! Or our friends Karen & Jim (with kids Amber & James), from Kentucky, who surprised us (shock was more like it) for the same reason!!! And then there was Peggy and Larry from Pennsylvania, who we met during Jessica's first transplant as their daughter Nikki was also undergoing the same. And yes, Nikki is doing very well, thank God!! There was also the man with no ties to our family who came with his three young sons, two of who have also had transplants, and who knows what we are going through.... sooooo much support from so many people. I think we kind of felt like George Bailey from It's a Wonderful Life, who never quite realized how his life intertwined with so many others, or was aware of the love surrounding him...untill the "need" was called upon..... There are more stories to tell from this day and if anyone has one to share, please do. We would love to hear them all!! There is no real way to thank everyone for what they have done, but please know that we all appreciate the love, prayers and support that you have shown us, not just for the Drive, but over the years. Love, Chris, Jessica & Johnny