In less than a year . . .
Believe it or not, and mostly because of Annie’s friends, there is a nonprofit organization in Annie’s name that is poised to continue the work that Annie was so dedicated to in her life.
How in the world could this happen?
I’m not even really sure, but one thing I do know is that none of this would have happened without the strength and love from Annie’s friends. We launched Pocket Full of Rocks, Inc. about six months ago and trust me when I say I had no idea what I was doing. But because Annie knew such amazing people, they guided me in creating a place where we could focus on the concerns that were important to Annie and hopefully make a difference to those who were impacted by such conditions.
Like breast cancer, for one. During the brief few years that Annie was diagnosed, treated and managed her particular diagnosis, she was the recipient of support and love and resources that energized her. Even as the cancer progressed, she knew how much that kind of help made it possible to continue to be present in her life as a mom, wife, friend and member of a community.
If she were here today, she would want to return that love to others in need of it. Which is the goal of Pocket Full of Rocks, Inc. Besides cancer, she looked out for the underserved, our environment, and just people in general.
I sometimes wonder what she’d think of all this. Sometimes I think she’d roll her eyes and say, “Oh, mom…enough. No one wants to hear my story.” But other times I think she’d be really excited to be a part of something that would help others. Above all, Annie wanted people to feel safe, included, and loved.
This April 2nd was a year since Annie died. A part of me still can’t believe she had cancer, much less that it finally took her life. But being able to put some effort into promoting the causes that she was passionate about feels good to me. With the help of—honestly—some truly amazing people—we are going to see what we can do to provide the kind of help and support that Annie would be doing if she was still here.
And, this month, we have a little extra help to do it. We’ve joined the Give Local campaign that helps bring attention to local nonprofits. There are going to be lots of ways to support our work during this 36-hour campaign and if you want to know more, I’ve put some links below. If you’re already a donor—first of all—thank you! You are already helping us reach our goals. So, feel free to share our site or our mission or our campaign.
And, as always, thank you. For your interest, your support, and love. We literally couldn’t do any of this without you.
Give Local - April 29-30
Read about Annie’s Scholarship
Donate to Pocket Full of Rocks