On Friday, January 26, 2018 we held our first “official” fundraising event for Evelyn in support of her life changing journey.  It was a fantastic evening!

When we first started discussing this whole fundraising aspect of Evie’s SDR journey, it was really important to me that we held an event for families.  We have such wonderful friends and many of them I met during my mat leave with Evelyn.  I have known their kids since they were small and they have known Evelyn for as long as they have had memories.  We just felt it would be great to have them be part of the journey and for them to hopefully see that they are supporting a friend (a few even asked great questions about the event and why Evie was having surgery).

We had a few ideas and knew we wanted to organize something for the start of 2018.  A friend mentioned reaching out to Fun Factory  (indoor playground) and see if they would be interested in  donating a prize or maybe a discount for the space.  They were so excited about this opportunity for Evie and donated the space to be used and it was perfect!  This facility has lots to do for children of all ages, two party rooms, clean and the staff have been awesome to work with!

Once the venue was organized, a friend designed an adorable poster to advertise while another friend helped collect various raffle prizes.  I wasn’t sure what to expect and was hoping for around 8 prizes and 60 people.  Soon we had 16 prizes and 90 people registered (approx. 25 families).  The participants included our friends from near and far, friends of friends and some people who heard about it and wanted to support the cause!  We also received great items to be added to our loot bags including $5 McDonald’s gift cards, Burt’s Bees lip balm and water bottles.  Another friend was even able to recruit some last minute volunteers when a few people couldn’t make it (see what I mean about wonderful friends?!).  We also had a photographer from SNAPD who took a few pictures (look for our event in the March issue for those who are local)!

The event only lasted 2 hours but when there is pizza, a visit from someone resembling a beloved tv character, cake eating, participating in a raffle, exploring the playground and chasing your kid(s) around, it goes by fast!  Everyone had a great time and so many nice words were said.  We truly felt the love.

Special shout out to the six CP Warriors who came out to support Evie.  Four of these kiddos have already had SDR and they are doing amazing!!  Their families have been so supportive during our journey.  They answer questions, make suggestions and totally understand every aspect and emotion.  I also will be reaching out to them a lot more in the next few weeks as we get closer to our surgery date (so be prepared warrior Mommas)!!

Our event was a success on so many levels.  We raised over $1800 which was more than we hoped.  The parents enjoyed themselves and the kids had a blast!  Thank you to everyone who came, who volunteered, who donated items for the raffle and loot bags and to Fun Factory for hosting!

Thank you for cheering our warrior on…

Go Evie Go!