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As many of you may already know, Sunday October 1st was a very special day for us. We kicked off our Wind In My Sails 'Sail-A-Thon' with our 'Cruise-For-Wishes' and were lucky enough to be able to spend a day with some very special kids and their families.
Two families from The Children's Wish Foundation came aboard "Sophisticated Lady" for a day of sailing and pure fun! It really was the most amazing day, Avery and Stefan, our 'wish kids' were the most incredible people to meet. They were both full of energy, spirit and wonderfully open, joyful and humorous kids.
Stefan warming up to 'Lucky' the Parrot
Avery brought her big sister, Savoy, who was very witty and a joy to be with. Their very special parents, Ericka, Junior and Margaret were incredible and it was easy to see how these kids became the amazing people they are.
Stefan and his Mom Sandra, the coordinator from The Children's Wish Foundation joined us as well and was a pleasure to meet.
Terri & Rick with Sandra Aldcroft (Children's Wish Coordinator) We all laughed, talked, relaxed, and ate till our tummies bulged! It was a fantastic day that we will never forget.
Lunch time!!
Both CTV and The Toronto Sun sent reporters down to the boat to interview the families and report on our "Sail-A-Thon" & hopes to raise money for this very worthy cause. It was very exciting to have the press there and they were wonderful with the kids and their families.
After many pictures we set sail in a light rain that ended shortly. The wind cooperated and we got to sail around the island with everyone on deck enjoying the city skyline.
Sun breaking through the clouds and illuminating the city
My daughter Madison was on board to help and she had a blast hanging out with Avery, Savoy and Stefan. The kids loved it when the wind picked up and the boat heeled over and they pretended to be tossed around below decks! Both Avery and Stefan took turns being Captain and crew and their excitement was contagious.
Avery at the helm!
It really was a day full of smiles and happiness. Rick, Madison and I felt so privileged to be part of these special families, even just for a day. Ashley and Lucky also fell under the joyful spell of these kids and cuddled and bonded with them too!
Ashley getting some lovin' from Avery and Savoy
Here are some links to the media coverage of our special day!
It was a very special day for all of us aboard 'Sophisticated Lady', the kids all had great fun and the adults enjoyed themselves immensely as well. We feel very privileged to have enjoyed as much success as we have with our sailing venture, it truly has been the realization of many of our own dreams. To be able to share some of that success with these children and help them realize their dreams is another great reward all in itself. We have been blessed with 3 happy, healthy children, and to have gone through what these families have gone through, well we just couldn't imagine. We listened to their stories of the battles they've had to overcome and they truly are remarkable families for being able to have dealt with un-imaginable circumstances and stay positive through so much. We are thrilled to have made a difference to these two families that shared our day with us.
Now we have the opportunity to make an even bigger difference for many more Wish Families.... the opportunity to raise funds that would actually be used to grant Wishes for children that truly are in desperate need of some fun. You can only imagine what their daily lives are like as they battle with life-threatening illnesses each and every day, and for us to have the ability to offer them something so special is something we just can't overlook.
If you could take the time to follow one more link, it will take you directly to our new Children's Wish Sponsorship form where you can pledge any amount you like. It will literally take less than 1 minute of your time, and even if everyone who receives this email pledged only $10-$20 it would make a huge difference to these children. You can feel free to pledge anything you are comfortable with, no amount is too small, and certainly no amount is too large! 100% of all donations will be going directly to The Children's Wish Foundation and in fact, even though they offer for us to deduct our expenses from contributions, we will not be deducting anything as that will be part of our contribution to the cause. Once you submit your sponsorship form, it will go directly to the Foundation and they will contact you to collect your pledge. You will be able to pay by credit card or send in a check, whichever your preference. Here is the link to the sponsorship form and all we can say is thanks so much for taking the time to help us support this very worthy cause!
Thank-you again!
Cheers, and much respect to all of you! Rick & Terri 'Sophisticated Lady' |
