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Spinning For Smiles/Smiles For Spenser


Soulart

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I traveled 5.5 hours one-way to participate in this troop. For many reasons.

 

First off, it was an annual event in honor of a sweet little boy taken way too early from Leukaemia. That used to love to ride his bike. This is one way his family has honoured his life.

Second, because it was a fundraiser put on by teenagers aged 15-18 in grades 10-12 (my sons age group) not only did they raise money for Spenser’s Fund, but were encouraged to choose the charity of their choice, and support that.

Thirdly, one of our Garrison members teaches at this high school, and has been on a trooping hiatus for a good many year due to severe health issues and life. It was a last minute request, and I wanted him to know that he was an important part of our Garrison and I went to support his return to trooping.

Fourthly, I missed my TK Twin, Brother, and other Garrison Family I’m just so far away from.

Fifth, I was asked to do temporary body tattooing on the children while they weren’t currently on their bikes. I volunteered my time. (In my free time, when I’m not sewing, I do body art) I stayed after our nights troop and did art in the wee hours of the am.

 

I can’t even begin to imagine the kilometres I’ve put on my vehicle to troop! Every mile worth it.

 

Smiles For Spenser is a 24 hour Bike A Thon where teams must keep their bike in motion at all times. It was created in honor of the youngling and his battle through his illness. Countless moments spent in a chemo therapy room.

The funds generated go to purchasing a gift package for every child as they begin their horrifying journey in that room.

It’s full of presents. Activities. Books. Blankets. Toys. You name it, it’s in there. Given in the hopes to lift their spirits and keep their thoughts occupied during treatment.

 

I can identify with this, having been my younger Sisters chemo partner during each of her treatments over the 2.5 years she fought for her life. I know how important it is to keep those you love uplifted. And focused elsewhere during those times. I’ve volunteered many many hours to strangers in those chemo rooms. Both my Sister, and Spenser lost their fight against the cancer that ravaged their bodies.

 

What these teenagers were doing for others was important to me. Well worth the 11 hours of driving to support them as they biked through the night.

I appreciated the ability for the teens to also choose a charity that meant something to them personally. I strongly believe in teaching our youth the value and power of giving of yourself for no other reason than love or compassion. Unconditionally. From the heart.

There were 200 children there at this event giving of themselves in the hopes to make a difference. I really wanted this event to be supported.

 

So before it even came across our forum boards, I personally messaged members. Asking them if they could be free and join the few of us already committed to being there.

 

We trooped in 2 shifts with a break in between while a band played. Where we snacked, visited, laughed. 14 of us made it out that night on only 3 days notice. To support Teacher/member Greg, and the children. And the event. These teens raised $25,000 this year. I commend their efforts.

 

I can’t state this enough- I love my Garrison Family with all my heart. They really are a great group of individuals full of compassion and caring. Moments like this make me want to shout out loud how special these moments are, how great these humans are, and how grateful I am to have experienced and shared this with others. Why I’ve chosen the 501st Legion as the Organization I give my spare time to, as well as the nerdy family known as the Badlands Garrison of which I’m proud to belong to.

 

With a happy heart,

 

Teresa/TK 41307/ SoulArt

Geeky Pink

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TK Twin and I battling it out with the kids!

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Officer Sal helping a team out.

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Henry’s R2 was a hit!

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Lord Damon and I at the photo booth.

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Peggy the Jawa

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Oh the irony....

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My Twin relaxing and helping a team.

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Look closely... you can see Vader photo bombing my pic! HA!!!

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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

 

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Sooooo much fun to share in - many kind thanks for sharing my TK - Twin!
 
And they doubted I could sit on the bike - HA showed them lol!

Who doubted???
Not any of us that’s for sure... just don’t crack your armor. Again.



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