I've been thinking for days what words I would write to thank everyone, express how grateful we are, show how happy we are for Gary and for how much love surrounded Gary throughout this benefit.  There are no words!!!!!  I've searched up and down and there just aren't words significant enough to express our feelings.  From the volunteers who helped to plan the event, the bakers who brought goodies for the bake sale, the volunteers who made the day amazing, the people who asked for or gave of prizes for the raffle/meat raffle/silent auction/etc, the 50/50 winners who gave back, the prayers and positive vibes from those who couldn't attend, the donations, the event center and food, all the hugs and love, and so much more.  This wonderful community that has touched Gary and our family is something for the books.  For weeks before the event, I was amazed at all of the people who would just reach out to offer themselves, goods, etc.  The days before was a flood of donations, volunteers, goodies, baskets, etc.  Then the day of the benefit...PRICELESS!  I was in literally in tears with each person that would call, text, donate, volunteer, etc.  I was flooded with emotion on Sunday and the tears wouldn't stop.  I was not alone.  The entire family was brought to tears with this show of love and support.  Even 5 days later I am breaking out in tears when asked how the event went.  Overcome with emotions is an understatement.  I've cried a million times more happy tears in the last two weeks than I've cried sad ones in the last year and a half.

Over 700 people is the estimate for how many people were able to take time out of their precious time on a weekend to show love and support to Gary.  I'm just speechless and so, so, so grateful, humbled and amazed.  Thank you!  We heard many times how full the parking lot was.  Thank you for not turning away but coming in to share part of your day with us.  The day was all about Gary but what we didn't expect was the healing that you provided to the whole family.  Let me say that again...your hugs, your love, your show of support wrapped around the whole family and was medicine that healed so many wounds that have been open and exposed for over a year and a half.  YOU did that! 

 I wish that I could write a hand written note to each and every one of you.  How did we get so incredibly blessed with this wonderful community of amazing human beings?!

With the generosity of all of you in a variety of ways, you have helped shape Gary's future!  I'm again in tears to share the fabulous news that Gary will now get not just one but both pieces of equipment.  In fact, the fundraising goal has been exceeded!  The equipment will be ready for Gary soon!  Congratulations to everyone for exceeding the goals!  This was definitely a gigantic team effort!  

The JRG Helping Hands team did an incredible job.  What you all showed for this benefit is the epitome of who Jeff Geving was and what he stood for.  We are forever grateful to Jeff.  The circumstances are unfortunate that Jeff couldn't be with us in person but his spirit was soooo present with us!  

JRG Helping Hands is a non profit organization that was established to let the legacy of Jeff Geving live on.  Jeff was always helping others and showing kindness and his smile to everyone.  Jeff was a good friend of Gary's and a running and biking partner since middle school, if not before.  Jeff lost his life to cancer but cancer couldn't snuff out his light and legacy.  Jeff's wishes were to continue giving to others and that is where JRG Helping Hands has started.  Jeff loved this community and the people in and wanted all of us to take care of each other.  I would say that Jeff's first effort with JRG Helping Hands was a smashing success!  We love and miss you Jeff!

I could keep rambling on continuing to try to find words to thank all of you while I sit here crying happy tears once again.  I'll just add these final words...thank you for loving my family as much as I love them!

#SimonStrong