Today was a very exciting and busy day. It was Zachary’s 9th birthday and Walk for Autism at the Rose Bowl. Andrew and Zach told us several weeks ago that they wanted to do it in honor of Matthew (of course I cried). Zach decided that this year he wanted to participate in the Walk for Autism for his special day and his birthday wish is that a cure will be found. It was a beautiful day for this event and the turn out was tremendous. It was a very empowering and emotional experience as Mark, Keiko, Andrew, Zach, Matthew and I walked with thousands of people who have been affected with autism in one way or another and to see everyone's commitment to helping our kids and to find a cure. There was this feeling of solidarity, we all were there because we have hope. I remember a time when we only felt despair so we had some poignant moments seeing families and friends walking together. It made made me so grateful for my family who has traveled this journey along with us.
USC Trojan Band lead us to the start of the walk
USC Trojan Band lead us to the start of the walk
Andrew and Zach taking turns pushing Matthew
Team MDS (Matthew Dean Sumida)
Keiko, Andrew and Zach.....You guys have been our rock.
Daddy and Mommy adore you little guy!
WOW! $1,097,843 raised in 1 day!
Andrew and Zach were rock stars and between internet contributions and cash/check raised almost $1300 each! Wahoo!!!! They were so excited and worked hard to reach their goal, even going through their neighborhood to raise donations for this cause. I don’t think Autism Speaks could have 2 more committed representatives. Andrew and Zach, we are so proud of you both. You are wonderful boys and we love you very, very much. Thank you for working so hard to make a difference. The photo above was at “The Grand Club”. We saw that there was a nice food layout and massage tables but assumed it was for big donors. After the walk the team captains found Andrew and Zach and told them that it was for those who exceeded $1000 in sponsorship! They went and grabbed some cupcakes and drinks before we left to go back and celebrate Zach’s 9th Birthday at Keiko’s.
Birthday kisses for Zach!
Thank you to everyone who sponsored Andrew and Zach. We greatly appreciate your generosity and support. We send hugs to all of you.
Andrew and Zach, we are so touched by your desire to make a difference, we could not be more blessed to have you in our lives. Great job!
“Never doubt that a small group of dedicated people could change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead
2 comments:
OMG, I started bawling. How cool that Andew and Zach did this for Matthew. Sound like they worked really hard and raised a bundle!
Good job!
Please tell Zach and Andrew that I think they are amazing. And to Zach Happy Birthday and what a great and unselfish way to spend his birthday, what an awesome man he is at the age of 9.
Kisses to Mathew. I'll see you for lunch or coffee soon.
R-
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