MIA

Yes we have been MIA all month.

We were busy preparing for Liam's end of chemo party.

Then Mama had some work she had to finish.
Then we left for Michigan to visit all of Liam's supporters back home.

While we were gone, Liam broke my camera, yes the same camera we just got back after losing it.

Next week will be full of updates and photos from the last month (at least the ones that were saved or taken by others).

Huge Thanks

I have been wanting to write this post for a while now, but words really aren't enough. I want to recognize a few businesses that have helped us.

Katherine's Kloset

Lisa, owner of Katherine's Kloset, is a relative of ours. When she first heard of Liam's diagnosis she generously donated her company's profits that month. We were so grateful, but Lisa did not feel like that was enough. She continued to get donations for Liam's bills from 2 mother's groups and began a fundraiser; Project Liam. Getting all the materials donated, Lisa made and sewed the cutest zipper pouches. These pouches generated more than $4500 in donations.

Bitsy Creations

We found Joan of Bitsy Creations through Lisa. Joan and Lisa are old family friends. Joan also contributed to project Liam by making an informational insert about Liam that went into each pouch. We of course reached out to Joan when planning Liam's balloon release. Joan donated the 365 information cards that were attached to the balloons. And most recently, Joan made the invites for Liam's end of chemo celebration.

Candy Howard Photography

We were introduced to Candy through a friend when Liam was younger and we were looking for a photographer. Candy is super nice and easy to work with. We LOVED how Liam's pictures turned out and knew we wanted to continue to work with her. As Liam's first birthday was approaching I contacted Candy to set up his 1 year pictures. I explained our situation to her; that I really wanted to set up an appointment, but wanted her to understand we might have to cancel it without notice if Liam wasn't feeling well or in the hospital. I was also hoping to work out a payment plan with her since I wasn't working. Candy gladly donated her services for Liam's photoshoot. We waited for Liam to recover from his surgery and chemo, but finally got his pictures taken last week, I can't wait to see them!

Flashes of Hope

Flashes of Hope is a nonprofit organization donating a photography experience for cancer patients and their families. I call it an experience because I took Liam for his pictures and I was treated like a movie star. A Flashes of Hope worked played with Liam while I had my makeup professionally done. Wow, me in makeup, it was a sight to see! Each family receives 2 8x10s in a keepsake leather portfolio, 4x6 proofs from your session and a CD of all photos with a release from the photographer. It was definitely a nice to visit the hospital for something positive.

Note: Although we did receive support from these businesses, I was in no way compensated for promoting them. I am doing so because I believe in the quality of work these ladies produce.