Eighteen Ugandans showed up on my doorstep needing a place to stay. Vince Lemus and his daughter said they would take half. Vince was there helping me to build the community we wanted to live in.  He was building that community at the Fairchild Air Force Base, the Spokane Human Rights Commission, Workforce Diversity, Spokane School District and the GLTB community.

Now I am asking you to help build the community we all want to live in. Take a few minutes to read this letter and to respond as you feel appropriate.

Hi Bob! As you may know, our granddaughter, Marleigh Elise (5 years old), is struggling and heartbreakingly, losing her 14 month long, fight against Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). She is currently under Hospice care. My wife and I sat with Becca and Marleigh yesterday. Marleigh proudly showed us her “pain pump.” It delivers pain meds, intravenously, every three hours. As we sat there, we saw the deep seeded pain and anguish in our sweet daughter’s eyes and voice as the cancer slowly continues to consume her baby’s fragile body.
It’s always a horrendous challenge when a family member, especially a child, is sick; however, the emotional challenge is made tougher in the holiday season, knowing it is probably your last, together. Yes, a FB message is quick, convenient and appreciated. As random as it may seem, I am asking, if you have the time and inclination to do so, please mail a short letter, a card, postcard with a few words or something of that nature, to Becca, her husband Matt, and Marleigh. Please send some written words that reflect compassion, encouragement and or empathy in this difficult time. Your act of kindness definitely won’t make the pain go away; however, it will let them know their burden is lighter with your alms of prayer, chants, warm thoughts and understanding. Please let the time you take and words you write, be your gift to this family in this season.
Feel free to send this to friends and family members, even though they may not know Marleigh or her plight. We would like an outpouring of love and support for this family, this season. Until then, let the blessings be.
Sincerely,
Vince and Teri Lemus
Address: Matt and Rebecca Erdahl 2518 W. Broad St. Spokane WA 99205