A message from the Benton family

11/19/2008

I would like to offer my thanks to so many good-hearted people from the Benton family to you and yours. As I made probably the last entry on Josh's Status page to offer thanks, and make a final entry in our hospital diary, I stopped to consider all the support we have received over the past couple months. We were fortunate to receive encouragement from one or many caring friends nearly every day of our ordeal. This effort was culminated by an amazingly successful fundraiser and party on Josh's behalf. Josh and the rest of our family would like to thank everyone involved; from Guido's and the intrepid organizers, to all the people who helped out, and all the great folks who attended.

It was encouraging to hear that such a diverse group attended - old time hockey and young, rival schools and competitive associations, hockey and "regular" people united for a common cause. We certainly wish that we could have attended, especially Josh, but we do cherish the stories, mementos, and contributions which will hopefully more than cover the medical bills incurred over this past year by myself and those which are still coming in for Josh, as well as provide training for his return to the ice.

As I stated in my last Status entry, I am privileged to know that I can't walk through a hockey rink without needing to say thanks to so many of the people I would see. I know there was a lot of people who prayed for and offered support with meals and means to pay bills from all over the community and for that I am truly thankful. I have faced serious illness for several years now, but nothing as fearful as having one of your own children in peril. It means a great deal to know that during the darkest of times we are not alone, if we don't choose to be. Our family is indebted to you all and looks forward to a better chapter in life, as this one closes.

Yours Truly,

The Benton's