Baby Rowan and Lend A Hand

When we found out Rowan had Lissencephaly back in September, I remember wanting to be quiet and I didn't really want people around. I just didn't know what to say, and I didn't want to ask for help. Even if I could recognize we would need help, I didn't have a clue what that would entail.

I'm not sure if it's a Midwest thing, or a love thing- but our friends wanted to do something for us and to show their love and support for Rowan. One day a friend called to say they wanted to put on a benefit for us.  I said, 'no- please don't.' And I meant it. I didn't want anyone feeling sorry for us and I didn't want the attention that would come with an event like that. I'm not saying my reaction was correct- I think I was so numb and confused, I just didn't know what to do or say.

About two seconds after I said, 'no', I realized that it was not for me to decide how my friends should act or what they should do. I needed to let go and allow them to take the actions they felt necessary. They wanted to have a benefit for us, and I needed to allow them that...

And let me tell you something- It was one heck of a benefit! Our friends, family, and the community were amazingly generous- and we were supported by DMF Lend-A-Hand, too.  Doubly blessed.

Us with Michelle... Notice Lily's awesome smile:)

Us with Jeana from Lend A Hand- again... Awesome 'cheese' from Lily.

Since this whole thing started, I've marveled at this community. I've been blown away time and time again at the nurses, caregivers, donations, cards, therapy providers, doctors, and businesses...
Our benefit was a huge success thanks to family, friends, and DMF Lend A Hand.

I wasn't able to thank all in the community who donated; there were just so many.
So- if you're reading this and you helped our sweet Rowan- thank you so very much. Fargo/Moorhead is an amazingly supportive community and we were blown away with love.
Thank you all.

Today, though, I want to let you all know what a wonderful organization Lend A Hand is.
Jeana Peinovich has taken care of us since October. She's emailed, called, and has loved our little family... We couldn't have been luckier to have her to work with and Lend A Hand along with all the families helped are blessed, as well.

A few years back, Jeana came up with the idea for Giving Hearts Day.  On February 14th, Dakota Medical Foundation matches funds donated to Lend A Hand along with other organizations.  The beauty of Lend A Hand, though, is that 100% of gifts are distributed to local families experiencing a medical crisis.

Please show your support for them and other local families.
Donate HERE.
Contact Lend A Hand:
Phone: 701-271-0263
Toll free: 1-877-977-5770
Fax: 701-271-0408
Address:
Dakota Medical Foundation
4152 30th Avenue South, Suite 102
Fargo, ND 58104-8403