One group was a beautiful family we had never met. We know now,
they are kind-hearted, generous people. Thanks, Clarke Family! xxx
The other is Paolo and his team at The Brooding Italian Cafe in Kiama.
Sometimes, saying 'thank you' isn't enough...
it doesn't show how you really feel...
it isn't enough. This is one of those times.
You know when you just connect with someone? ... that's Paolo, Kerry and I. | Mum got a text message this afternoon. Paolo put more money in my account... money from Paolo, The Brooding Italian staff and the generous Kiama community. The very first time I met Paolo, I was at his cafe with my family, in my pram. I need my pram, as it is modified and supports me when I can't support myself (I have severe cerebral palsy). We sometimes feel guilty for taking up space in cafes, but without knowing us, or my story, Paolo's staff moved tables and chairs, to make room for us. We were a little surprised, but felt so welcomed!! Just before we left, Paolo came over and spoke to me. We told him I had no words yet, and probably might not really see him and that I have cerebral palsy. Paolo didn't care and continued to chat to me. I think that's when I fell in love with him. He's a good guy. Later, we found him serving coffees at Melissa's fundraiser for me... and after working all night, he donated the money to me. When Paolo met me again that night, he fell in love with me, too. He offered to host 4 Brewing it for Dexter days at his cafe, with $1 from every coffee coming to me. He wanted to fund fortnightly physiotherapy sessions for me, for a year! What a goal! His staff have given up their tips for about a month and people have thrown money into my tip jar. |
and Paolo might be a little upset that I am publicly thanking and praising him...
(he's asked us not to publicly thank him - he's doing these days out of love, not for recognition or publicity) but I'll get about 26 hours of physiotherapy this year, because of him and his team and I think that deserves a shout out!
THANK YOU!!! To everyone who's helped!
We found this photo posted by Mr Clarke. His family created a Christmas lights display using milk crates. There was a plane and a very cool man, sitting on the garage. The display was fantastic and was written about in the local paper! The family kept a tin out the front of their house and invited people to put in some coins for me. They also had favoured milk chilling in an icebox and were accepting donations for the milk. They asked us if it was ok to raise some money for me. We were a bit shy at first, but we said yes. We met the family, and they are lovely! Read the sign they have in their front yard now! Amazing! Thank you!!! Thank you also to Jetz Cafe and the Sydney Motor Home Wanderers. Thanks also to every person who put money into the tin. We will make sure we let you know how that money is spent. (Every cent given to Dexter is spent on Dexter) |