Give Kids the World

So I want to take a few minutes to give you some details from our recent trip. We stayed at a place called, Give Kids the World. It's a not-for-profit organization just outside of Orlando, FL. It runs a beautiful "storybook resort" for families with children that have life-threatening illnesses and/or disabilities. It is funded mostly by corporate partners and private donations. Here is the link to its website: www.givekidstheworld.org. The place is staffed with hundreds of volunteers - from older retired couples to church group teenagers. Their mission is noble and honest.

The trip was all part of a wish granted to Cady. Her wish (we actually chose it based on what we thought she would most enjoy) was to see the Wiggles live in concert. The RI Wish Come True organization generously offered to make it a travel wish since the Wiggles had an upcoming performance at the Orlando Hard Rock Live. It was a great trip and we are very greatful to everyone who made it possible. We were able to go to Disney's Magic Kingdom, Seaworld and Universal Studios!

Callia anxiously awaiting the Magic Kingdom's 9 pm parade.

Blue - one of the many characters the kids got to meet at the resort.

The Wiggles cast members were great! We had 'Meet and Greet' tickets for before the show. Everyone was very personable and friendly, and they seemed to take a genuine interest in Cady. During the concert itself, Greg (the yellow one) came into the audience for a bit they did; he recognized Cady and stopped to say hello to her again. Honestly, I think Kelly and I were more excited for Cady than she was about the experience herself, but we both agreed that she had a good time. It was after the concert that we met a family with a young boy with CP (I mentioned them in a previous post). I promised to email them so that we could stay in touch - I have to make good on that promise after I finish writing this.

Cady, as she notices whose behind her.

The Smiths and the Wiggles!

I know tonight's commentary wasn't about running. I just wanted to let you all get to know us a little better and share some fun experiences we recently had. We will be running again soon - tomorrow, in fact. There are several races coming up that we've been given the 'okay' to participate in. I listed them on the facebook page. WE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE A LARGE GROUP RUN WITH US AT ONE OF THE UPCOMING HALF MARATHONS. Just get in touch with me (facebook, phone, or email) if you're interested.

Thanks for reading.