Showing posts with label Pay it Forward. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pay it Forward. Show all posts

Thursday, May 23, 2013

One In a Million!

I am sure you have heard of it- it's one of the leading household products that "live in the basements, garages and under the sinks of America and around the world". It has over 2,000 documented uses and counting...

But, perhaps what you did not know is what an unbelievably value centered and family-oriented company that it is. Not to mention it's made up of some of the most genuinely thoughtful employees on the face of this earth! Our personal connection with WD-40 began when Hudson (our oldest) was just a newborn. It's staggering to see where this past nearly eight years has brought us! From day one we were welcomed with open arms and Adam was taken under the wing of so many great mentors.

After two children, moving out of state,  the life changing discovery of Adam's brain tumor and subsequent surgery, they are family to us! Through everything we have been through these past couple of years I can not even imagine how different it could have been without the love and support of our WD-40 family!

Over the years, Adam has enjoyed working on so many great campaigns with WD-40, especially the ones that are extremely close to his heart like the military tributes and limited edition cans. His Dad served in the US Navy and that means so very much to Adam and our family. But, little did we know that a very special group of angels were working on a campaign of their very own just for Adam!

Many of you have been with us every step of the way and lifted us up in prayers, sent cards,  encouraging words and so much more. All through Adam's diagnosis, research, surgery and recovery we have tried our best to keep everyone updated on his progress- which is still going amazingly well, by the way :)


The latest development in his physical therapy opened a door to discovering a very unique device that could completely change Adam's daily life and awaken nerves in his arm, wrist and hand that he hasn't been able to get complete communication with for nearly a year and a half of therapy. Immediately we began praying, researching further and communicating with the company (Bioness) and our insurance. The track record of the device was mind blowing (and so was the $7,000+ price tag). But, soon it became all Adam talked about.  We all thought "YES!!! Finally, a light at the end of the tunnel!!!!


But, unfortunately, there were road blocks with the insurance- it's such a new technology that it is still considered "experimental" and as such, our insurance doesn't cover it, not even partially- Now, believe me we are certainly pushing back with letters from Adam's doctors, therapists, etc. but had also ultimately came to a decision that no matter what we would get him that device, regardless on whether the insurance covered some or not a single penny of the expense. He is worth it and so much more!


At that, we both began praying about our finances- cutting out where we could, saving here and there, I print coupons like crazy and started earmarking any photography sessions and orders that came in specifically for Adam's new arm device. God is unbelievably faithful and we started making progress towards our goals. Adam, always the negotiator began negotiating terms and a purchase price for a used (refurbished) Bioness unit while we were also pushing every available option for an exception for at least partial coverage with insurance. We were covering every angle.

And then, out of the blue we receive a card in the mail from a group of Adam's co-workers at WD-40, who had taken up a collection for him to be able to purchase the Bioness unit- and not just a re-furbished one, but a brand spanking new unit all to his own!!!! And they didn't stop there- they even did their own negotiating with Bioness and got them down another $700 on the price of a new unit.


When Adam told me, I was speechless, stunned and completely humbled to see such pure generosity!!! I cried. I still sit quietly and try to wrap my mind around it, knowing that Adam will have more use of his left hand soon. I can't wait to see him doing more of the things he loves again in more of a comfortable routine- cooking, playing ball with the kids, golf...basketball, and maybe even one day soon running again!


I am still in awe of how God can work so delicately and perfectly when we just completely surrender to His will. I am so unbelievably thankful for such a precious company like WD-40 and even more so for the friends there who love us like family. I could never ever express in words just how much this wonderful blessing means to our family- and to Adam.


Thank you, Thank you, THANK YOU from the very bottom of my heart. We love you all so very, very much!!! You are all one in a million and are such an example of true compassion, generosity and love! To everyone in California and beyond who contributed in each and every way- big and small. Please know that there is a family in Georgia whose lives you have completely changed forever and are soooooooooooo thankful for you!!!! WD-40 has ultimately added a few more uses to their list of unlimited uses- inspiring hope, loving like family and paying it forward.

xoxo,
The Browns



















...and, I thought this verse was absolutely perfect on the heels of this wonderful blessing- thank you for lifting us up!!!



Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Home Sweet Home

We are back from hosting one of the best photography retreats and workshops EVER!!!

...and I must say while it is nice to be back home in my own cozy bed I really LOVED each and every day that we had in California & Mexico and I already miss everyone sooo much!

Two years ago, I put complete faith in God and followed my heart to create a unique retreat for photographers to relax, network and learn and I continue to be blown away at the results of what happens when like minded individuals come together to lift each other up, grow with each other in their lives + businesses and create friendships that will last a lifetime!

>>A full recap is coming soon, but for now enjoy one of my favorite shots of Cabo, now back to catching up on all the emails, voicemails and fantastic clients that have been so patient and wonderful awaiting our return! xoxo :)

Monday, January 17, 2011

Giving Back {Get Involved}

Below are some wonderful non-profit organizations that we are extremely blessed to work with. We have been extremely fortunate to be able to give back and pay it forward, please feel free to contribute in any way that you feel led. God Bless!

Vision Walk
Website: http://www.visionwalk.org/
Mission:To fund sight-saving research.
Important Dates: May 21st 2011
Donate: For Megan
{Article}

Brides Against Breast Cancer
Mission: Fulfilling a dream or wish for cancer patients with their families.
Donate: New/ Used Bridal Gowns, Shoes, Veils, Accessories, etc. More Donation Info.
Website: http://www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org/
Important Dates: Event Calendar
{Article 1 , Article 2}

F/Stop Breast Cancer
Website: F/Stop Breast Cancer
Mission: Raising Awareness and Funds for research to end Breast Cancer
{Article}

Daniel
Website: http://www.danielkids.org/


Mission: To support and provide for children as far as our means and facilities will enable us.
Important Dates: Event Calendar
Donate: Ways to Give

Thirst Relief
Website: Thirst Relief
Mission: To overcome death and disease resulting from the consumption of contaminated water by providing safe, clean drinking water to those in need around the world.
Donate: Online
{Article}

Florida Baptist Children's Home
Website: http://www.fbchomes.org/
Mission: Christ-centered services to children and families in need.

PACE Center for Girls
Website: http://www.pacecenter.org/



Mission: Provides education, counseling and training to girls and young women for an opportunity for a better future
Important Dates: Currently Celebrating Their 25th Anniversary!
Donate: Clothing, School Supplies, Prom Dresses, etc. and Online
{Article}

Operation Homefront Florida



Website:
http://www.operationhomefront.net/
Mission: Assist military families during difficult financial times by providing assistance in various needs.
Donate: Online

Bands Against Breast Cancer






Website:
http://www.bandsagainstbreastcancer.org/
Mission: To harness the power of music to enable us to raise funds to provide education, awareness and support in the fight against breast cancer.
Get Involved: Online