What
a difference 6 years makes.
Six years ago, Laura Somerville
Woodall had an idea that her friends and
family could make a real difference in a person’s life. They were already making a difference in Laura’s
life through their care, support, and love after her
diagnosis with ALS.
Six years ago, Laura asked these
friends and family to support her idea. She knew that women out there who have
been given devastating news might not have the support system that she
had. These women - these mothers living
in our community - would need help to get them through the hardest times. They would need financial support to help pay
for rent, mortgage, electricity bills, medical equipment, and medical
bills. They would need you. They would need us.
Six years ago, a seed was
planted.
What started out as a group of 25
friends is now a group of like-minded supporters over 700 strong. And these are just the ones we know
about. Every dollar stuffed in our
donation jar during Davidson Town Day, the Davidson Farmers Market, and other
Awareness Month events by people learning of AGSF right at that moment means
rent to a grant recipient. We might not know
their names, but they heard what AGSF does and decided Laura’s idea was worth the
investment.
Six years ago, two local mothers were
given financial assistance and were able to focus on their health and their
families instead of the mounting bills.
And since then, 22 mothers
have been given that same opportunity.
In six years, over $73,000 has
helped these families do what Laura intended when she dreamt of this Foundation
– focus on the family, focus on getting better and have relief from the
financial stress and burden that comes with a debilitating disease. In 2014, over $21,000 has gone toward mothers
like Mrs. S of Charlotte.
Mrs. S., mother of a 14 year old, had
already lost her car and home during her second round of breast cancer
surgery. She’s now in treatment for
Lymphadema and the financial stress is taking a toll on her health in other ways
as well. She has sleepless nights at the fear of losing her home. Rent or treatment, that’s the choice so many
face in situations like these. When she learned that AGSF would pay two months
of her rent, she cried on the phone.
Mrs. S then wrote this to AGSF: “Words cannot express how thankful we are to
all of
you. Thanks for caring and being there for us during a great need in our
life. Thanks for giving us home for
tomorrow. Our hearts are forever
grateful to you. God bless all.”
AGSF will continue to support research
organizations until there is a cure for ALS. Nearly $10,000 has gone directly
to these organizations since 2008, including over $2300 raised during the Shut
Down for ALS challenge on May 18th and the amazing ALS Ice Bucket Challenge
that overtook the world this August.
Once again, we thank all of you who
have nurtured the seed and been with us as it has grown and taken root. 2014 saw
another successful AGSF Awareness Month, a community cookbook created by friends
of AGSF for friends of AGSF, the Shut Down for ALS event, and the ALS Ice
Bucket Challenge movement.
AGSF and Monkees of Lake Norman
partnered for their own Wine Bucket challenge – all of the fun, none of the ice
water – and the end result was a fun night out and many new pairs of Frye boots
on the feet of Davidson residents!
In 2014 we introduced the AGSF Teen
Council – a group of dedicated local teenagers who know the meaning of service
and are intent on fulfilling the AGSF mission.
Their 24-hour Walk Around The Clock event raised over $10,000 that will
go directly toward local mothers needing assistance when health issues impact the
family financially. A huge shout out to
Chair Lexi Powers, Chair-Elect Daryl Konstandt and the entire AGSF Teen Council
for their time and energy and dedication to AGSF!
And here we are, entering year seven. We’re planning on continuing the good work
started six years ago. We’re planning on
ensuring sustainability for the next six years and beyond. Your support ensures that Laura’s vision continues
to be a reality, helping those who need it most.
How can you help? Send your tax deductible donation today!
Sincerely,
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