The latest giveaway was particularly exciting for me not only because it prompted the most entries yet, but because the prize was a photograph from a talented artist and personal friend. It was also very interesting to see what photo people selected and why. The winner of the Jodi McKee Giveaway is...
Lynn!
Lynn chose the photograph pictured below. Coincidentally, she had one of the most beautiful responses:
"I would choose the fourth picture. It reminds me of my 13-year-old daughter who suffers from spondylitis. Her life is one beautiful and fragile day built up on another. She handles her arthritis with strength and grace and the stem in that picture makes me think of her---it looks so fragile yet it stands tall while carrying its burden. The background of hard, dark, buildings makes me realize the hardness of the life that surrounds her. Yet she seeks out the light and she shines!
My daughter's name is Grace and it couldn't be a better name for such a beautiful girl who is filled with grace both inside and out."
My daughter's name is Grace and it couldn't be a better name for such a beautiful girl who is filled with grace both inside and out."
This giveaway reminded me about the power of art. Depending on the onlooker, one image can mean many different things. I love what you saw in this photo, Lynn. I hope you'll hang it as a reminder of your amazing daughter. She is so lucky to have you as her mother and as her supporter. Please e-mail me at mklaub@gmail.com with your mailing address and we'll get it over to you ASAP!
Secondly, I wanted to take a minute and write about my upcoming Arthritis Walk in New York City! In 12 days (on May 15th) I will be setting out on a 5K Walk with friends, family, and my awesome teammates by my side. While I'm very excited about that day, I'm also a bit anxious. 3.1 miles might seem like a breeze to some, but I haven't walked that much in well over a year. I'm thinking I may take a lightweight wheelchair along with me because, when my hips say "stop", there's no fighting that. This way, even if I can't keep walking, I can still cross the finish line. Plus, my wonderful boyfriend offered to push me the whole way if need be. My pain level has been very low lately (Thank God), so I'm just hoping it stays this way and I can reach this goal that I've had for so long.
I've been extremely moved by the outpouring of support from friends, family, classmates, and my amazing readers. It has honestly meant the world to me and I will be walking with all of you in mind. If anyone still wants to make a donation, my fundraising page will be open for a few more weeks. Please remember that even a dollar goes a long way in showing your support. and - donation or not - "good luck" messages are ALWAYS appreciated and deeply felt.
Love,
Maya
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congratulations to lynn! a beautiful choice, indeed.
ReplyDeleteand i am so looking forward to the arthritis walk!! it's going to be a blast, even if we have to crawl across the finish line. ;)
I agree, only a mother could write such caring and thoughtful words....Maya, good luck on your walk, every other Patient Activist will be walking (Or Wheeling) with you in spirit! You are such an inspiration to me and others with AS, keep up your hard work, seriously your happiness is contagious, so thanks for this smile!
ReplyDeleteJodi: It will be a blast :) Thanks again for making that giveaway possible.
ReplyDeleteKelly: Thanks so much for your beautiful words. I certainly feel that you're all going to be with me next weekend. I was able to walk about FOUR miles yesterday - something that hasn't happened in well over a year before I got extremely sick. I hope you know what an inspiration you are to me and the entire AS community as well xoxo