The cutoff for the initial order of Kristin's Crew t-shirts is Christmas Day, and everyone should receive their shirt around the first of the year. So far we have sold over 20 shirts, and received nearly $200 in additional donations. We are both very touched by the responsivness and generosity of those in our lives. You guys make it easy for me to assure Kristin that no matter what lies ahead, she will never be alone. In that same way, we feel incredibly fortunate, that no matter what the future may bring, we will not find ourselves in a truely needy position. While most of Kristin's interactions here at Barnes have been with the doctors, nurses, and medical staff, I routinely interact with other family members and caregivers. It seems like every day that I meet someone who is in the same or similar situation where I hear about concerns and stresses that don't even cross our minds. Krstin and I have both been retired for a few years, so we will never miss work or have to wonder where our paycheck is coming from while receiving treatments. Kristin has good medical insurance, and we even have some additional insurance on top of that, so while cancer may get expensive, the bulk of it should be covered. We have multiple forms of reliable transportation, so we will never stress about the distance to her appointments or where to stay when out of town for treatment. The bottom line is that cancer will never cost us our home or take away our ability to provide for ourselves. 

Unfortunatly, that is not the case for so many families battling this relentless disease. I have met people who are geniunily concerned about how they are going to pay for parking let alone knowing where the next mortgage payment is coming from. I see people everyday counting their change in the cafeteria for an order of fries, or having to ask if they have enough left on their food coupon for an apple. I've watched a family jump through hoops to do a directed blood donation, not because they wanted to, but because the 2 units of life saving blood his mother-in-law needed were just to expensive. His jaw dropped when I told him Kristin had needed 18 units of blood. I see family members sleeping on chairs in the visiting room not because they have to be there, but because they can't afford a hotel. I really can't tell you how many times I have broke down crying in my car, not about our situation, but about that of some random stranger I just met in the elevator.

The hospital has a family lounge that has become my home away from home and a temporary respite for Kristin. The 2nd floor lounge has taught us that the little things make the biggest difference, so Kristin and I have decided that this is how we are going to use the proceeds from the Kristin's Crew campaign. Recently I sat down with the director of the center to express our appreciation and to determine how we could help. While the vast majority of resources available in the family lounge are provided by the hospital, we were able to find some needs. The lounge has a supply of board games and adult activity books that is always in need of replinishment. Additionally, while there is a kitchen area to prepare and eat a meal, care givers are often looking for a quick microwavble food item to hold them over. The lounge staff also mentioned that food from outside the hospital is always a hit, remarking that they were still talking about the Hot Box cookies that I had set out during Kristin's last stay. I'm planning on picking up a couple dozen Einstein's Bagels and a supply of fresh fruit from Whole Foods to set out tomorrow morning. 

So with all that being said. If you think this a good use of money, then click on the link below and join Kristin's Crew. Future campaigns will include a wider selection of items as well as long sleeve and hoodie options. Those not wanting to place an online order can contact me directly via FB or Text (870-421-0131) and I will make sure you get a shirt. 
 
https://www.bonfire.com/kristins-crew-campaign/