This blog was created to offer information on the upcoming benefit in support of John and Carla, as well as to provide a place for friends and relatives to volunteer to help with the benefit or donate items for the silent auction. If you are interested in helping or have some ideas on how to make it as successful as possible, or if you have questions, please feel free to leave your blog entries here! This benefit is a result of the dozens of people in this community who have expressed their heartfelt desire to lend their support in thought, word and deed. Thank you for your untiring love and blessings!


Monday, January 31, 2011

WE ARE DEFINITELY SOLD OUT OF TICKETS

We have sold 400 tickets for this event! If anyone has any unsold tickets or know of anyone who has a ticket but cannot come, let me know so I can get tickets to those who still want to be there in person. Blessings to all of you for such an overwhelming turn out!!!

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Donation Information

If you cannot come to the event, but would like to make a donation, please make all checks payable to John and Carla Knowles and send to the following address: Cathy Cesario, 46 Mechanic Street, Wakefield, RI 02879.

Thanks so much!

Friday, January 14, 2011

A Personal Thank you

When John was diagnosed with Renal Cancer in June, we were all devastated. Since then he has undergone two surgeries with inspiriting fortitude and humor. Throughout this time, we have been deeply moved at the number of people who constantly reached out to John and Carla. Five or six people a day would approach me, in the grocery store, in my yoga classes, and about town, with touching words of support and stories about the many ways that both John and Carla have not only touched them, but have somehow been an integral part of their lives. The stream of care and prayers keeps coming. Thank you so much for all of your support. We have felt it and been literally held up by it. In fact, just before John's first surgery, he said to me, "I feel like a thousand hands are holding me." You, each one of you, in the ways that you do, are responsible for the overwhelming feeling of community that we all carry with us each day.

When I heard that dear friends were wanting to do a benefit for John and Carla, I was speechless with gratitude, and though I had to really convince John and Carla to let you all do this for them (and it wasn't easy, I tell you!), I know that they are also truly grateful for this display of love. Thank you for all of the ways you continue to support our family, and for the ways you are offering now for this event.

A special thank you to two extraordinary women: Amy McGillivray for initiating this very special event, and Deb Maguire for playing such an integral role as an organizer. I know it comes straight from their hearts. Blessings to you all.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Volunteer Possibilities

If you are interested in selling tickets to the upcoming event at Pancho O'Malley's or know of anyone who might be interested in donating items for the Silent Auction, please contact one of the organizers/contact persons listed on this blog. Thank you for your interest and your help!