"expressions of Hope"

The fundraiser went great. I met so many nice people. The fundraiser was held at the Stone Publick House in Ashland. The function rooms and the food for the event where donated by the stones public house. How awesome is that! The food and service was amazing!

The boston marathon runners from the genzyme team to support NORD are such wonderful people. Kailene Simon, Elizabeth Masterjohn and their crew did an amazing job to help set up such a great event. The fundraiser as I had mention was hosted by the genzyme team along with Kathleen Coolidge from Genzyme Patient Relations in support of NORD (National Organization for Rare Diseases). All donations from this event go towards the NORD program and services to help those affected by these rare diseases. If you would like to donate please visit http://rarediseases.org/helping/boston_marathon. The team ended up raising $1625 at this event. Thanks to all of those who donated!

I met the sweetest little girl “Rachel”. Rachel has Canavan Disease, which is a degenerative disorder that causes progressive damage to nerve cells in the brain. This disease is one of a group of genetic disorders called leukodystrophies. Without the help of NORD, Rachel would not be getting the best treatments she needs.

Here is Kailene (right), Rachel (middle) and Rachel’s mom Sherri (left)

Here is Rachel and her sister Jessica. At one point Jessica helped Rachel clap her hands because they won a prize and Rachel had the best smile!

The 2010 Boston Marathon Runners with Jessica and Rachel

I learned that Kailene not only was helping with this fundraiser but she also does many events to raise money to help many people like Rachel. She is truly an inspiration.

Here is a picture of Kailene and Rachel. So sweet!

This is a poster that Kailene’s sister Ashley Souza made. It is awesome! Ashley's future goal after she finishes school I hear is to work for Pixar (the animation studio). I beleive that this will come true for her! :) Good luck Ashley!

Other posters which where hung throughout the function rooms where either painted or had been photographed by patients who also suffer from rare diseases. Each picture had a story which told us how the picture made them feel. These posters where so incredible. This one was my favorite.

I had a great time at the event and I cannot wait to do more photography work. Although I am JUST beginning I do feel that this is something that I want to do and that I will be great at. I can't wait to learn more and meet so many great people!