A Special Christmas Wish

One of my co-workers has been the legal guardian of her nephew since he was just a baby. Steven is 7 now. At first they thought that Steven had Cerebral Palsy, but recently his diagnosis has changed and it has been discovered that he has a genetic disorder which makes it difficult for him to walk. He also has a thinning of the spinal chord. There is a good possibility that he may end up in a wheelchair. Steven is a very smart and cute little boy. Connie does so much for him makes so many sacrifices for him. She is one of the most caring and unselfish people I have ever met.

Shortly after Steven's new diagnosis, Connie mentioned to me that she really wished she had enough money to take him on a trip to Disney World before he ends up in a wheelchair. Connie is single and doesn't make a lot of money. I decided that I would make it my goal to raise the money for Connie to make this trip and surprise her with it as a Christmas Gift. I solicited donations from many of our co-workers on campus and from the Nursing Department Faculty and students. I was able to raise almost $3,000, plus admission tickets to Disney World and Sea World!

On Friday at our Department Holiday Lunch, I presented Connie with the check. She was so shocked at first she was speechless, then she cried. She was truly surprised and very thankful. She was so excited to tell Steven the news.

It was really a special moment, and I was so glad to help her out. She really deserves this and so does Steven.