Letter from Maura Weis
Another year and another big move, I think this time we got it right! We should start a moving support group or something since we are so experienced at it, we have it down. The big question for us was "Will Hannah like her new school?" Many people assume that a child with special needs will more easily adjust to a new situation but that is simply not the case. When your communication skills are limited, being in a new place is very scary for them. They miss their old friends and want to fit in just like every other child who moves somewhere new. Well, God set her up great because Hannah loves her new school and is very happy with her new situation. I knew when she stepped on her air-conditioned bus with 3 other students to greet her, she would be okay. When she got home I asked her "how was school?" Han replied "all work" and started laughing. It was such a touching moment. This child who has very few words always manages to come up with the right words when she needs to. Our love for her grows every day when we see her face her daily challenges and keep a smile on her beautiful face.
The other great thing is Charlie and Charlie Jr. are very happy. It is a wonderful experience for them to be back on the sidelines together. Charlie Jr. loves being a student working with the coaches and football team. Of course, I am happy because I have my kids, husband, horses and dogs with me. The only negative is that we all miss being able to go to Hannah and Friends Neighborhood and see the kids and adults.
The Celebrity Golf Classic in Charleston, South Carolina was amazing this past year. It was a wonderful day and everyone had a great time. We cannot thank the sponsors and sports celebrities enough for helping us and making it another special year for Hannah and Friends. So many charities request celebrities to attend their event and we are honored that they were able to take time out of their busy schedules to be with us. The tournament was a huge success and in this economy, we are very grateful that we did so well. Thanks to our sponsors, golfers and celebrities. We are blessed to have your help.
The funds raised from the golf tournament allow us to keep our summer programs, dances, horse programs and residential homes going. I am happy to report that everyone had a great summer of fun at Hannah and Friends. Instead of a lonely summer watching TV, our kids and adults were at Hannah and Friends enjoying their days with their friends doing fun activities. The dances continue to be hit and we are the only ones in town that offer wagon rides. The horses pulled the wagon with our program participants and their families in a local parade and it was so much fun for them. This fall we continue to offer day programs for the adults who are no longer in school. We fill their days with fitness activities, cooking, music and continued learning. This is only possible because of the generous donations made by you. We know the economy is not doing well right now, but we ask that you continue to support Hannah and Friends because you are truly changing lives. This special group of people are the first ones cut out of government funding, as they have no voice. You give them a life and a place to go and enjoy themselves. You give their parents respite so they can have a few hours to get their errands done. Every donation matters and we want you to know we really appreciate all that you have given over the years.
We wish you a blessed Holiday Season,
Maura & Charlie Weis
