The Blessing Network

Sometimes, blessings take a very circuitous route to land gifts at their destination. I am loving being a part of this process.

Firstly, a girl with cancer and a vision started a project that is now a far-reaching 501 (c) (3) non-profit group that assists pediatric cancer patients and their parents by providing toys and activities to occupy the children during their long hours of treatment and hospital stays. Sadie’s Dream for the Cure involves quilters from all over to make lovely tote bags to carry these items.

My sister-in-law heads up a wonderful quilting group, Tapestry of Love, which is constantly sewing these bags as well as gifts for veterans, the handicapped, the disadvantaged, and everything else you can imagine! I always love being with them when I am visiting Illinois. .

.

                This year, I made a Star Wars themed bag. Kathie’s group packed 25 bags for us to bring back to Georgia.

We connected with Charice Holt, a Project Coordinator at Hughes Spalding in downtown Atlanta where we would be taking the filled bags.

Because the group had been unable to add LEGOs to the bags and that was one thing they said was always a hit with the kids, I went to the best LEGO store ever – Atlanta Brick Company in Newnan, GA! There, Elle helped me find some age appropriate kits. LOVE me some LEGOs!!!

Next, my son-in-law, Dr. Mark Coker of Coker Pediatrics in Griffin, came to the rescue. He navigated us right to the hospital where he often sends kids for treatment. There, we were greeted by Keisha Fraser Doh, a pediatric emergency doctor. The bags were safely stowed by the Security Team and now await the distribution people to hand out the gifts. I wish I could get some pictures of the kids with their bags.

Working together, people can accomplish more than they can on their own. As an introvert, I have to step out of my comfort zone to ask for help, but as the craft preparation and class for Vacation Bible School solidly reminded me, we need to ask for help. It was a wonderful experience as I met new friends and enjoyed the old friend who were true teammates. I pray the little ones were blessed by our combined efforts.

For several years, I have had Celebrate Life parties with a charity giving opportunity as part of the fun. Because my former pastor’s 3 year old granddaughter has struggled through the cancer treatment and rehab process, I have become more aware of this area of need. This year’s Celebrate Life party will be November 16. (Lord willing, my surgery in August goes well,  and I can find a caterer.) Around that time, I will be posting lists of toys and things that can be placed in more bags to take to more patients in Atlanta. Please plan on joining the fun and time of giving.

Here are a few verses to think on.

Proverbs 27:17 ESV  ‘Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.’

Ephesians 4:15, 16 ‘Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.’

Blessings

Kara Beth