Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Thank You All!

We had another successful Run4Rett on October 15th!  The weather was not picture perfect, but we brought our own sunshine!

Abby with her grandpas
 To my surprise, Abby walked the entire 1 km route!  She was coached by her grandpas and cheered on by many fans!  She was feeling good all day and enjoying all the attention!  It is by far her favourite day of the year!

Many of us ran the 5 km route.  There were some light, refreshing showers to start us off, but the big downpour held off until after the event.  It was great to see all the Team Abby shirts!  I was also encouraged along by all the young kids on Team Erika who never seemed to run out of energy!

There were a dozen different families representing girls and women with Rett syndrome.  The Run4Rett is a great way for us to show support for each other and to feel the support of family and friends.  I was happy to  connect with some families I hadn't seen since last year.  Representatives from the Ontario Rett Syndrome Association were on hand to provide resources and answer questions.  Dr. Eubanks (University Health Network) was there with his family and many students and staff from his research lab.  Thank you all for coming!

Thank you to everyone who came to offer support to Team Abby!  Every year, it is a slightly different mix.  Special mention to Trish for coming all the way from Vancouver and sponsoring our shirts again this year.  Thanks! 

Abby with caregiver, Emma
Thank you to everyone who came to volunteer!  Special mention to Tim and Cindy for the bulk of the organizing for the silent auction.  It runs so smoothly, most people don't realize how much work goes into it.  The auction raised about $3,400. 

Thank you to everyone who donated money in the form of pledges this year!  The event raised over $40,000!  Year after year, we are gratefully amazed by how many people are willing and able to pitch in.  Rest assured that your money is being put to good use.  The Ontario Rett Syndrome Association funds many programs which benefit Abby directly.  We appreciate your support!
Thank you!