Thursday, July 17, 2014

Celebrating a Life

Today's post has two purposes.

First, it is a restart of sorts. I haven't posted much recently and am now planning to get back to writing regularly. I hope to write three posts a week.

The second purpose is to remember a CYCer and speak out against drunk driving.

Tom was a fun-loving young man of faith whose life, along with that of his best friend, were cut short on July 17, 2010 by a drunk, drugged driver who was traveling in the wrong direction down the highway. She died, too. Tom left a young wife (he was only 24) and two young boys (ages three and one when he died). Tom is only one of far too many tragically taken this way.

You can read more about Tom here.


So I make my annual plea:


Don't drink and drive.

Take the keys.  

Appoint a designated driver.

Call a cab. 

We've all had enough heartache.

Also, Tom's family has started a foundation in his honor called the  The Thomas J. Serewicz Sr. Foundation For Kind & Responsible Living, Inc.

This coming Sunday in central Mass, they will hold a fundraiser and memorial picnic.

Here is their description of the event:

We hope you can join us for our old-fashioned picnic. Relax on your blanket in the sun, play backyard games with family and friends,: Frisbee, blowing bubbles, target games, get a team together for sack races, volleyball, badminton, etc. Or sit inside and just visit or play cards, etc. Grab some summer reading from our second hand book table, enjoy something to eat on us, and just get away from it all and enjoy. Bring your fishing gear if you have a license and want to fish (for a minimal donation). All the while helping a great cause. The day is filled with free fun, and the opportunity to give freely to our fundraising efforts. Bid on some nice things in our silent auction, including passes to Davis Farmland and Megamaze, a 30 minute massage, and some other gift items from our vendors. This year a portion of our proceeds will go to Teen Challenge program, assisting teens and others who are struggling to overcome addictions. Help us to bring something wonderful to the world in honor of Tommy's life and love. 


If you live near there, stop by and join the fun!


And remember, sober driving only.

 

6 comments:

  1. Drunk and distracted driving are horrible, mainly because they are so senseless and can easily be avoided. I'm with you on this one, glad to see you back!

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    1. Agreed!! Glad to be back .. and to see you back, too.

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  2. As always, Melinda, beautiful, moving and deeply appreciated. Your remembrance of Tommy touches my heart. Thank you for never forgetting and for your gift of remembering him also to others, and advocating so beautifully for responsible living, for sharing our information, and reaching out to the world for the good. You touch my heart, as Toms mom, and the rest of our family with the blessings of your love. Thank you.I hope you will have a chance to come on Sunday, I'd love to give you a real-life hug!
    Much love,
    Lynne

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    1. I do remember Tom. I wish I could have been there Sunday. Perhaps next year.

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  3. I hope I never get used to your annual post about Tom. Your message is powerful and needs to be shared. Thanks, Melinda. And may God grant everyone who knew Tom peace through your memories of him.

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