Chasing Rainbows: This is What Matters...

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

This is What Matters...

Dear Gavin,

Lately I have been so, so busy planning this "playground party." That's what Brian and I have been calling it - the Playground Party. The last week has been the busiest as I'm taking care of last minute details... and watching the calendar move closer and closer and closer. We are now just three days away. Three.

I've thought a lot about how I will feel at the event - what I will say. So many people (we're inching closer to 400 now!) are going to be there. I know that we're going to raise a lot of money for this "all abilities" playground, and that makes me so happy. But I also feel like this event will be a big celebration of you. Of your life. Your legacy. All of these kind people are not coming for the food... or for the game... or to let go of their hard earned money. They are coming because of you, Gavin... and all that you have inspired. I am so proud to be your Mommy.

And today, amidst the hustling around to get things done and trying to keep the three of us (lovingly) away from Daddy who was in bed for the second day - I had a moment. A "nothing else matters" moment. I had to run upstairs so I put Hope on the floor and asked Brian to keep an eye on her. As I made my way back downstairs, I could hear him singing. I stood there for a little bit as he finished his rendition of "Let it Go" and tears welled up in my eyes. And when I came around the corner, I found them like this...

...with Brian saying, "Did you like that, Hopi doo? That's Mommy's favorite song. You gonna smile for me? Come on - you can smile! I love you Hopi. I love you Hopi doo."

And you know, Gavin, in that moment I decided one thing. This is what matters. The event is going to happen - we'll either be well or we'll be sick - I'll either raise all the money needed or I won't. But one thing is for sure - that night... we will all celebrate you. You, who continues to change the world without ever uttering a word.

Love,

Mommy

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If you have yet to purchase your ticket to "Gavin's Playground Project" - there is still time! They are $25.00 per person and must be purchased before you arrive on Saturday. You can do that HERE.

The silent auction is going on right now and I encourage everyone - whether you're attending or not - to register and join in on the fun! And please share the auction anywhere and everywhere! You can register HERE by pre-authorizing your credit card (only used if you win a big) with GiveSmart, a very reputable organization that is used by some big time charities!

If you got this far, I've got a secret. I'm planning a BIG moment at the event - but you don't have to be there to participate. Everyone will participate at the same time - all over the world. I can't wait to tell you all about it... tomorrow.

2 comments:

JenGrigsbyApril 2, 2014 at 9:32 PM
Adorable...love those big brother moments. Had one the other day when i came around corner to my 6 year old reading to his three younger brothers. Makes you proud and humble at the same time. Those are the little moments you remember. Good luck this weekend from south carolina...i am sure it will be great!
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CindyApril 3, 2014 at 9:07 AM
He is one awesome little brother who very,very, much loves his little sister! Love to see these moments.
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Gavin's Playground Project

Gavin's Playground Project was born from my desire to see an "All Abilities" playground built at Nemours/A.I. duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, Delaware. This is the hospital where Gavin spent a lot of time during his life... and where he ultimately died, surrounded by friendly and familiar faces. To mark the one year anniversary of his death, I held a fundraiser on April 5, 2014. You can read all about it in THIS post.

We raised a LOT of money, but not enough for a playground! If you would like to contribute to help make this playground a reality - so no kids will ever have to sit on the sidelines watching their peers play - you can contribute directly to the hospital through the Chasing Rainbows fundraising page HERE. Your donation will go directly to the hospital for the playground and is tax deductible. You can also create your own fundraising team page and start collecting donations in honor of anyone you want!! There is also a mailing address on their page if you prefer to mail a check. Designate your contribution in memory of Gavin Leong - or write in that this is for the playground so your dollars will go to the right place. Thank you for your support of Gavin's Playground Project!

Gavin's Trust Project

I created "Gavin's Trust Project" to help support Gavin's friends who receive services from the Chester County Intermediate Unit in Pennsylvania. I wanted to continue to try to "make the impossible... possible" for kids like Gavin, knowing well how hard it can be to get much needed "special needs" items. It makes me happy to know that even after his death, Gavin continues to help others. Click HERE to learn more about the Trust Project! All of your donations, big and small, will be added to Gavin's Trust Project to help therapists and teachers get what they need for children in this program. You can write a check made out to CCIU and mail it to: Chester County Intermediate Unit, c/o Deb Hiller, 455 Boot Rd., Downingtown, PA 19335. Please be sure to add "Gavin's Trust Project" in the memo. Thank you on behalf of me and my little superhero!