A year ago this month, my life - and yours, quite likely - was changed in an instant. My best friend, my confidante, my bright light in a storm - my sister - was laughing on the phone with me one moment and taken from this world the very next.  A year ago, each of you stepped up in ways for which our family can never adequately say thank you.  You prayed for us - with us - fed us, sat with us, laughed with us. You shared your memories alongside us, and you each held onto hope. And finally, when her fight was over, you held our hands as we bid her farewell, and you financially supported her final resting place.  

After those few weeks, my words left me for a while.  I was overwhelmed with grief, and I stopped sharing.  It took me a long while to come to terms with her loss.  Nothing made sense, and there seemed to be no glimmer of hope. But one thing that I clung to, that helped me personally "get through," was her final act of service - one that so many of you may not even be aware of. 

As you all know, Rachel was one of the most loving and giving people you could have ever met.  She would have given you the literal shirt off her back if you needed it.  And her final act was true to her spirit. In her life, she spoke often of organ donation, ensuring to always "check the box" at the DMV - and ensuring all those she loved did the same. 

Rachel's final gifts to this world saved the lives of three people. 

Three people have more fulfilled lives today because of her.  And if that isn't "true Rachel," I don't know what is.  You see, in addition to donating countless organs and tissue for research, she donated her two kidneys and her liver so that others could live healthier lives.

Recently, I started a new position at National Kidney Foundation (NKF) serving the Carolinas.  I took this role, in large part, as a way to honor my sister and her precious gifts.  But what I've learned since starting here is the sheer number of people - many in our own tight knit circles - impacted by kidney disease.  I've learned just how life-changing her gifts were to those who received them. At NKF, we are doing our part to save lives in a multitude of ways, and I am beyond proud to do my part to fulfill NKF's mission.

I'm asking you today to consider joining me in this mission - in celebration and in memory of Rachel - and make a gift today.  March is National Kidney Month, and Thursday March 13th is World Kidney Day.  What perfect timing... Together we can ensure that others won’t have to suffer.  Every gift, no matter how small, will support awareness, education, etc. right here in the Carolinas and will ensure that Rachel's legacy can live on in this important work.

Together we can help others, just as Rachel would have... and did.

Thank you in advance, from the bottom of my heart, for your generosity.  But most of all, thank you for your continued love, prayers and support and for keeping Rachel's memory alive in your own way.  We are so grateful.