June 19 09
Before I thank everyone for an incredible night last night at our 5k, I have to make an apology. There’s no excuse, but I forgot to acknowledge a good friend, a great guy who left this world since our last 5k — my brother-in-law, Dan Crawford. I had planned to call Dan’s daughters, Nora & Luisa, up to the steps to receive their “B+ Hero” medals, and I just screwed up and forgot. Dan beat lymphoma 5 years ago, only to have cancer rear its head again and strike with a vengeance last spring. Dan went to Heaven on Sept. 5, 2008. It would be hard to find a guy with a bigger heart than Dan. Dan, Mary, Nora, & Luisa, I’m very sorry — I’m a better person because I knew your husband and Dad. I have attached a nice picture of Dan, Mary, & Luisa from last year’s 5k (see left).
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My nephew, Capt. Bob McDonough, has arrived in Kandahar, Afghanistan and now the worrying begins. But, this is what Bob has trained for and he’s ready to do his job. I’m sure we’ll be worrying much more than Bob. Bob will represent our country and the US Army well.
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Now, to the 5k. WOW! What can I say. We gave out 1,733 numbers and raised about $80,000 for our fight to eradicate pediatric cancers. As with many people, the highlight of the night for me came when we called up the B+ Heroes, young and old, who are battling cancer. It was truly an inspiring site. Thank you to everyone who supported us from participants to donors to sponsors to Salesianum to those that prayed for us. It was a blessed and special evening! God bless you!
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Live Like Andrew --and Dan-- MAKE today a great day! It’s up to you.
B+
Andrew’s & Ali’s Dad
P.S. Andrew, as you know, you’ve got a new buddy (Gary Papa) to talk Philly sports. Have fun!