Three months have flown by since I last blogged, and we've covered some ground.
Dan and I spent January and February in and out of hockey rinks at various foundation events including Hockey Day MN, The Shannon Cup, and our SOF scholarship night. Dan and I always find ourselves exhausted at the end of it, but so appreciative of the love and support we receive at these events. We feel so much gratitude for the chance to continue sharing Shannon's story and and connecting with others because of it. While it is hard work hauling boxes in and out of Graham Arena in the dead of winter, the chance to share Shannon's spirit with others makes it all worthwhile.
If January and February were about the SOF, March and April have been about Erin. In the past two months, Erin has finished her undergrad degree, decided on a PA program, started a summer nanny job, and finally turned 21!
Erin graduated with honors from Drexel with her B.S. in Health Sciences and a minor in Public Health and will start PA school at Salus University (located just outside Philly) in August. Dan and I will head to Philly in June to see Erin walk at graduation. Erin's spring/summer job is taking care of a 5 month old baby, which is a nice chance from working in an elder care setting. Erin said wiping a baby butt is way better than wiping old people's butts! Hard to argue with that.
We talk so much about what Shannon taught us, but I know I there are lessons to be learned from Erin, too. She took a leap to move out east and go to a school where no one knew her or her story. She made her own path, made good friends who feel like sisters, and accomplished her goal of getting in to PA school. She has lived in the shadow of her brave sister, but Erin is brave, too. This momma is so proud.
Now our attention turns to planning the next SOF event. Despite the weather outside, it is spring and we are thinking summer!
We are very excited to be bringing back the foundation golf tournament on July 18th after a three year hiatus. The venue is moving to our home course, Willow Creek, but the format remains: a four person scramble, open to golfers of all abilities. The entry fee covers golf, cart, dinner and a chance to win prizes.
We've already filled about half of the spots, but there's still room if you and your team can join us. Registration is open on the SOF website.
If you are interested in being a sponsor or donating to the raffle, please get in touch: info@shannonoharafoundation.org.
We can't wait to celebrate 10 years of the SOF at the Shannon Scramble!
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