I'm one of those people who tend to avoid most medical situations if possible. Whether I know the person or not, I feel a strong empathy and continue to worry long after meeting someone. Especially when it comes to children.
So attending Bead of Courage's First Annual Party was a bit of a concern. Would I be able to hold it together in front of the kids and their families. Heck yes! These kids are the
ones giving everyone else courage. How amazing! Dr. Jean Baruch the BoC founder and leader is pictured above left with Nancy Campbell, our local contact. Together and with the rest of the team, they've formed a brilliant network and program to support these kids.
Pictured below is Aidan- a little toddler who signs to communicate. He loves to keep moving in his special walker which is connected to all kinds of equipment. Aidan has been through a lot already as his 4 lbs of beads signify. (they're the crown on the AFL
AC stuffed duck). His delightful Mom told me about his upcoming trip to Disney with Make a Wish prior to his big, very serious surgery in November.
Aidan loves his beads so much, that they are used in his occupational therapy. Apparently he enjoys the tactile quality of them and practices stringing them after running his hands through them.
I'll post another time about the Dream Bead program. But I just wanted to say how lucky I am to be associated with this non-profit. We beadmakers are a small, but important and very appreciated cog in the big picture. Anyone can get involved. Please click here.
WOW, 4 lbs of beads. Poor little guy. Everytime I read an individual's story I get all teary. Thanks for your write up Marcy, the more information out there on BOC, the better.
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