Our awesome PAWSitive Choices curriculum author and former program leader, Lindsey Kealey, experienced a real set-back this past summer when her husband, Thomas, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia. Lindsey was scheduled to fulfill a couple of grants awarded by the Health Council of Central Oregon and the Boys and Girls Club of Central Oregon over the summer and fall. However, she was unable to do most of the work as she had accompany her husband as a caregiver as he prepared for and was given a bone marrow transplant in Portland. It was a brutal summer, fall and winter of chemotherapy, radiation, numerous brain, bone and spinal testing for Thomas. Lindsey remained by his side morning, noon and night as he endured the treatments to help him battle his cancer.
To assist the Kealeys with the significant financial challenges they are facing ASB volunteers held a fundraising garage sale in the fall. Some of our former adult leaders rallied together to donate a wide variety of items to raise money to help offset the medical costs for such an expensive procedure. We were overwhelmed by the generosity of our community to help this wonderful couple. Happily Thomas has been deemed cancer free after more than 8 months of treatments. He awaits a second bone marrow transplant this spring to boost his immune cells. The Kealeys as well as their family and friends are VERY grateful for the gift of new life given to Thomas by an 18 year old woman from France. We are so thankful that she made a PAWSItive Choice!!
We are anticipating a second garage sale/fundraiser mid June to continue to support the Kealeys. If you would like to donate to this cause with either things to sell or by making a financial donation, contact Char at afterschoolbuddies@gmail.com.
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