I would like to take this opportunity to openly thank everyone who took the time to help my son and I while my wife Dianne was bravely battling cancer.
We were all very humbled by Charlie Smith’s articles in the American Journal (Feb. 15 and Feb. 28) and the attention it brought to our situation. Dianne may have lost the physical battle with her disease, but her courageous spirit continues to inspire many, and her request for people to donate blood has already motivated many to help save lives through their donations.
From the moment we went public with our story, people near and far have overwhelmed us with cards, letters and financial donations of support. Marvin’s Family Hair Care of Windham, Westbrook Little League, Windham Middle School Staff, Westbrook High School Hockey Boosters, the Merry Manor in South Portland and many others have all been part of the local effort.
There are far too many people who gave time and money to list them all individually but there are two people I would like to recognize, Nancy Heath and Cindy Townsend of Westbrook Youth Hockey. The Westbrook Youth Hockey Organization took the time to organize a dance, raffles, candy sales and accepted donations of all kinds to help us while we were busy taking care of Dianne.
I could easily use this entire letter to praise the kids on my son Curtis’ hockey team. They not only participated in the fund drives but also stood by him both when his Mom was sick and at her memorial services. When they entered the service in their matching jackets, it was like a scene from a Hollywood movie. These kids were so thoughtful and considerate that they even dedicated their hockey season to Dianne by wearing her initials on their helmets.
The support for my family during such a difficult time has been immeasurable. I am truly honored and grateful to live in such a great community of friends.
Steven Merrill
Windham
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