Walkers thank friends for fundraising support

Carrie and David Elliott of Columbus
To the editor:
David and I wanted to take a moment to offer our sincerest thanks and gratitude toward those who helped make our participation in the Susan G. Komen for the Cure 60 mile, 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk in Philadelphia such a success.
   We can hardly believe it has been almost four weeks since partaking in this event. This event was unlike any other experience we have had in our lives. It was physically challenging but highly gratifying and fulfilling. We made new friends and observed the power of strength, the power of courage and the power of the will to survive.
   David and I made the decision to begin this journey this past summer, each of us having a number of inspirations to solidify our decision. We congratulate those women who have battled this disease and won, and we pray for those who are still recovering. We walked for them and we walked for the future as we hope that by taking those steps we will have prevented this disease from occurring in those we love the most.
   David and I began this journey as a two-person team; however our team soon began to grow including family and friends. We received support from distant acquaintances and strangers alike; the response we received was enormous. Our initial team goal was to raise $5,000. In our eyes, for first time fundraisers like us, that seemed like a lot. However, because of the generosity of our supporters, we were able to raise (to-date) $11,669! In our opinion, it was well worth our time and effort.
   We would like to personally thank the following who joined and supported our team: Marion Reeves, Beverly Rasmussen, Dorothy Elliott and Jackie Kienzle – for giving us the inspiration; Carol Reed and crew – for helping us to plan and organize our fundraising events as well as for providing such wonderful fanfare at both of our fundraising events; Donna Don’s Hair Salon – for all your advertising and monetary support; The Columbus General Store and staff – Molly and John Kaklamanis – Thank You for your generosity and support in making our events a success; The Franklin Fire Company – for giving us a great venue in which to host our Country Brunch and The Corner House Tavern – Bob, Trish and the Crew – for organizing the softball game fundraiser.
   We’d also like to thank the following businesses and individuals for providing gift certificates and generous monetary donations: Flynn’s Towing, Bung’s Tavern, Tranquility Spa, Buzz’s Tavern, Sportsman’s Center, Donna Don’s Hair Salon, Piccolissimo Pizza and Europa’s Pizza, Gary Petroni, Chuck from 92.5 WXTU, Barbara Jordan & Associates, Mansfield Oil Company, Kyle Lynn’s Florist, Imperial Inn, The Senior High Bible School Group of Wesley United Method Church, G & G Landscaping, Ted’s Lawn & Landscaping, Lippincott & Lippincott, Woolston Construction, Burlington Volkswagon and Bank of America – Sharon Wasko. Lastly, we want to say thank you to all those individuals who joined as at our fundraisers and to those who offered their support. Every little bit helps to make a huge difference in someone’s life.
Carrie and David Elliott
Columbus