9/9/12

Update: Wow! The fundraiser was such a success!  My apologies for taking so much time to update the page. We surpassed our goal of $2500. Whoo! I want to thank everyone again who assisted me in anyway with the planning and execution of the charity event. It was initimate and a very special time for my family. The great news is now all of our memories of Kailyn are finally digitalized! No more taped together VHS tapes. :) Thanks again to my family, friends, coworkers and those who I do not know that donated or even said a prayer.

All My Love, Jac

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Simply put: I love smiling and I love being the reason other people smile. For me, its all about the glass half full. Ask my friends.

This isn't my first time raising money for a cause I care about. For years now, I've partnered with friends to give back to others in need. Why? Because its REWARDING and like CROWDRISE says if you don't then no one will like you! But seriously, this fundraiser is a little different and a "whole lot" more special to me because of what it stands for. Not only am I raising money in honor of my sister who passed away at a tender age of 19 months from Leukemia but I'm raising it for the countless other children who are battling with blood cancers.  Especially the little ones who are so young that they can barely use words to tell Mommy & Daddy what is wrong. It really does break your heart.

No one could've prepared us for what happened back then. Kailyn was shockingly diagnosed after her 1st birthday. Toughest Moment: Being in the arms of my parents when Kailyn took her last breath at home. That was a very difficult thing to experience at 13. Nonetheless, our family has healed over time. Kailyn's life brought our entire family much closer. My parents even conceived again. Two healthy children in the following years, Karmen & Steven. We were so so so happy! And I think this is why I take the role as big sister so seriously. It was like I had another chance to be a good role model. 

To the young people in the world who have siblings diagnosed with Leukemia & other blood cancers, stay strong. I know its tough but keep fighting! I've always wanted to join the crusade for a cure but I guess I just wasn't ready to speak out until now. So as I prepare to enter my 30's, I've decided to celebrate Kailyn's life as well. And in lieu of gifts this year, I'm accepting donations to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. There is much work to be done to bring our nation closer to a cure for blood cancers. I'm just doing my part. Please do your part and support LLS.

Sincerely,

Jackie Castain

Cheers 2 Charity