Ch-Angels

There is a group I have mentioned previously that deserve a shout out today ~ The Children's Dream Fund. This is an extraordinarily amazing group of folks who tirelessly work to divert the attentions of seriously and terminally children toward whatever their little hearts can dream up. They have granted dreams of shopping sprees, horseback riding, computers, trips from Orlando to abroad and every place inbetween, playhouses, meet and greets, libraries, and too many things to list. Although these kids are fighting like mad to do ordinary, daily things, The Children's Dream Fund allows them the opportunity to slip away into their dreams . . . to put all the poking and prodding behind them . . . and to simply focus on having fun and being a kid. They have earned their Ch-Angel wings for sure.

Today, actually tonight, in Tampa's Curtis Hixon Park, they are hosting their "GLO" event. This event celebrates the courageous chidren who are battling life threatening illnesses - those who have triumped and those we have lost - in Tampa's version of Toro Nagashi ("lantern offerings on water"). This is the "G" portion for GIVE.

The "L" portion - LOVE - honors those who provide medical attention, comfort, services, and most importantly, those who provide strength to everyone impacted by the serious illness of a child.

The "O" portion - OBSERVE - is for those that want to come and share the event. From 6 - 9:30 pm, on North Ashley Drive in Tampa, come and enjoy this celebration of life. At 8:30 pm, the lanterns will be lit and floated down the river in a beautiful celebrationof life and a message of hope to the children, families, and friends of those who have couragesouly faced a life-threatening diagnosis.

This event is one of a myriad that the CDF holds to raise funds for and awareness of their endeavors. My family has been the recipient of their kindness. We've helped to pay-it-forward to others. Should you be looking for a way to donate, in memory of someone you have lost, or in honor of someone who has been victorious in their struggle, please contact The Children's Dream Fund (www.childrensdreamfund.org) and find out more about how you can help. It is a trul rewarding experience.

I purchased lanterns that will be set afloat in memory of Salvatore Marinello, Francine Sellet, Julia Rider, Alfonso Sellet, and in honor of my children, Deanna and Miles. You can see a photo of them on my facebook page:  Lyn Rider Marinello

Be a part of something magical. Help these Ch-Angels make a difference!