I was at City of Hope on Tuesday for my monthly treatment, and I took with me a black trash bag that had 6-7 stuffed (gently used) animals that Rachel was willing to part with. When I took the bag to the front counter, the man said, "You can't even imagine how much we needed this." That made me feel good, and I was so proud of Rachel for parting with such precious and cuddly little creatures. That would have been thanks enough, but God decided to give me more.
The lobby was filled to capacity that day. I found an empty chair in a corner and was reading and waiting for my name to be called for blood work. The chairs next to me opened up, and a family sits down and the little 4 yr old girl is clutching Rachel's green turtle. She is showing her parents, and waving it in front of her baby sister. I did not see who in the family had the wrist band (which tells you who has cancer), but they looked like they did not have the money to indulge on such a nice stuffed animal. I was so touched to see her lit up face, I wanted to call Rachel right away.
An hour later, I was in a different area of the facility when I saw another family with a little girl who was clutching one of Rachel's stuffed bears. What joy! I was so proud of Rachel, and so delighted to see the stuffed animals get so much love from these children, I had a hard time keeping the tears from flowing.
It is amazing what our kids can do to help others. They are not powerless! I was honored last November when my Girl Scout Troop did the City of Hope Walk. I was so proud of each one of them for walking the long distance, and staying upbeat. They all have wonderful parents too! I also had two of my Brownie Girl Scouts make a lemonade stand to raise money for COH in my name. Carly and Riley have big hearts, and they made $11.40, which I took to COH with great pride.
I hope to take more stuffed animals with me to City of Hope. After hearing about what happened, Rachel was ready to give all her animals away! I think she was reminded that she has so much, and others don't have hardly anything. Humbling.
Speaking of my extraordinary Brownie Troop, I am preparing for a huge sleep-over with the 12 girls this Friday. If you don't hear from me until late Sunday/Monday, it is because I have not quite recovered from the experience!! Pray for patience and that they go to sleep!
Teddy Bear Hugs,
Sandy
