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Faces of friends I hadn't seen in 15 years. I went to school with Shelly. We graduated in 1992 and Derek was one year ahead of us. I was so pleased to see they married, had two children, and looked happy and healthy. Their children seemed to be the same age as my two children.
I read a few lines of the intro and I was startled and saddened by the news. Derek had ALS and was in the later stages. His best chance of prolonging his life: Go to India and get the embryonic stem-cell treatment not offered here in the United States."
I was shocked to learn of the advanced prognosis of Derek's disease, and dumb-founded that one of the richest, most resourceful counties in the world couldn't help treat Derek and others dealing with advanced ALS and Lyme Disease.
Shelly and Derek asked family, friends, and our community to pitch together to raise money to offer them a chance to save his life.
I don't know what would be more frightening. Dealing with a fatal disease or asking for help. We normally don't think of it that way. Dealing with a deadly disease is a struggle in and of itself. Exposing one's private life, the imperfection, and disease is altogether terrifying.
Derek and Shelly found the courage because of two young children. Not only did they find strength together to battle an unforgiving disease, they found humility, courage, and moved forward. I don't think many people can say they possess the grit, the determination, and the dedication to their children to do the same.
At once my heart went out to them, as did 400+ members of Face Book. Unfortunately, just signing on as a fan to the site and receiving updates isn't enough to get Derek to India.
I talked to Shelly and Derek at the first fundraising event, an Easter Egg Hunt. You couldn't meet two people who are more gracious and humbled from the experience. They told me the response has been amazing and each week seems to be busier than the last.
Unfortunately, the financial pot to get Derek to India isn't building like it could be. Right now the fund hasn't hit 5,000. In less than two months, more than $45,000 is needed.
Derek would like to travel to India in June to receive the two month treatment and be able to return home to see his daughter off to school in the fall.
We need everyone's help. Help us raise the $45,000 by donating and participating in the Family Fun Day being held May 2 at the Dryer Road Park, the Golf Tournament at Ravenwood Golf Club on June 5, Attending the Cottage Hotel, in Mendon on June 6, and purchasing the things you need anyway; your non-perishable groceries, clothing, health and beauty products, etc. through Exceeding Expectations (all proceeds go to Derek's Fight).
Go to http://www.ExceedingYourExpectations.blogspot.com and http://www.dereksfight.com to support Derek's trip to India.
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