Jugglers, balloonists, unicycles, and more greeted us at The Big Top Bop, a dinner to raise money for Mary's Fund. The kids had a great time gathering "trick -or - treats" while the adults placed their bids for the silent auction. Uncle Jon needed a cart to carry home his loot! While Mimi stood guard of her basket insuring ultimate victory.
I had fun dressing my crew, but despite our efforts a family picture eluded us! Eamon was so handsome and warmly embraced by the many therapists and doctors present. The event proved to be beyond our expectations. Such a spectacular and large scale party yet it felt like we had been invited to a Crilly Family celebration. Mary's life was honored. To see a banquet room filled to capacity, keeping her legacy alive in other special needs children, was priceless.
The beauty of Mary's Fund is their focus on the children. All Mary's kids were invited as special guests at no cost. It was precious to see these special children surrounded by their family. A video and slide show highlighted the many ways the fund is put into action: therapies, equipment, outings, dancing and horse back riding. It is quite overwhelming as a family that benefits from such an organization to realize all that is done to enhance the lives of many local children, but especially of our little prince.
I read an article recently that explained how people tend to fall into two categories when relating to a special needs child and their family. One are The Rocks, those who step -up and embrace this "new normal" with you; and the Gingerbread Men, who fear the unknown and flee. Our family has been remarkable blessed with all Rocks. Even though it has cost them, our family and friends have supported us in every conceivable manner - and we are forever grateful. Eamon was honored by the presence of his Grandparents, and his local Aunts, Uncles and cousins. I felt so proud of our representation at the dinner, and I know it spoke volumes to the Crillys as to our appreciation for all they do - more Rocks for Eamon.
As we continue down "The Road Less Traveled" with anticipation and hope, I am comforted that so many go before us, alongside us, and behind us, encouraging each step along the way. You are all so much a part of what God has done and still promises to do.
You are loved!
6 comments:
I'm sorry I wasn't able to make it up for Eamon "coming out" - Mom says it was a great night though!!!
Bravo!
What a great night! I am so honored to be Eamon's aunt and to be able to show my support for him and ALL of Mary's kids. Eamon and Mary's kids do so much for those around them by just being the unique and miraculous individuals they are. What they teach us, they're families and friends, is priceless and although it's not always easy it is a beautiful journey about what is real, beautiful, and important in our lives. This fund is absolutely amazing and I look forward to all the great things to come in the future for all the children that benefit from it. I just want to say thank you to Mary and the Crilly Family, they are remarkable. I love you all!!!
What a great night we had at THE 6ANNUAL MARY THERESE ROSE FUND DINNER.To see all the children and how they enjoyed the clowns and jugglers,and the great atmosphere of love and happines in everyone face.The music the food the many uplifting conversations. I could go on and on.There in the middle of all this was OUR PRECIOUS EAMON.I might add he was very very handsome.I just want to say THANK YOU to Lisa and Jack Crilly for establishing a fund in their PRECIOUS DAUGHTERS NAME that benefits so many special needs children,as well as our grandson EAMON.What a blessing you and your whole family are to so many.Your PRECIOUS Daughter Mary lives on and is remembred and loved by so many families.I look forward to what is ahead and that PAPA and MIMI might be used to be a blessing to others as we learn more from all of you. For those of you who could not make this event no worries because there will be another one.I am looking forward please god to the 3 Sunday of October 2009.
Tracy,
Seem we have alot in common. Ivey is a third child too. They are stair steps, 5,4 and 2 1/2. Ivey's genetic abnormalities is so rare, there is no name for it. Nor, have I ever met another parent with the same diagnosis, or have her specialists..... We are carving out our own path. I have learned now when things are skeptical to others to point out that Ivey has no parameters. No one knows, so we are shooting for the stars, and we will land some where among them.
You have a beautiful family.
I think you hit the nail on the head. I am not in the same catergory as other parents, every one is still here - rocks. But I find myself not opening up often, in hopes of protecting them from some of the struggles. It is all so complicated at times. Maybe you are right, in actuality it is protecting my self. Not the other way around.
Our children are living examples of Ordinary Everday Miracles - they happen all the time - but you and I are so lucky to be blessed with one. And Jennifer and I at Lots of Scotts are actually friends in 'real' life. She is a wonderful person and undeniably a rock in my life. Those triplets of hers are great! They love on Ivey whenever we are around.
It is so nice to meet you. I wish you many blessings.
Gwen
We had such a great time with ALL the kids at the Mary's Fund Extravaganza! What great fun ! We are so proud to be part of Eamon's rock pile! (tho we may be the weepy ones). It was so inspiring to see so many children of all shapes, sizes and abilities enjoying themselves at the circus!
All the kids there and their parents are so inspiring! We are certaintly looking forward to going in 2009!
Wow! Tracy what a turnout! It looks like you had an amazing time. You are so blessed to have such a supportive family. We send our love to you!
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