New Year Update

I wanted to update those of you who check in to see how we are doing. The holidays really weren't too terrible. There were tears and sadness, but we were able to enjoy our day together. It is still possible to break down at the slightest thought, though. That probably won't change for awhile.

I know that there was one person who expressed the desire to know what was done with the Memorial Fund. However, true to form, I can't put my hands on their info to let them know. Until then, and for the rest of you, this is what the funds were used for. Some of the money was used for the memorial tree at Bethel College. Money was donated for scholarships at Memorial High School in Ashli's name. We will be purchasing several bookcases to be used on the Elkhart General Oncology floor for a patient library and some materials to add to the collection of books, videos, dvds, cds, etc.

Finally, we would like to plan a date for those who would like to remember Ashli together in June or July to go to Chicago for an overnighter (or just the day). Many of you really have not heard each other's Ashli stories because you have never really met. We will all be sad at that time, but we would like to share the grief and love in a location and manner that is thoroughly Ashli: shopping in Chicago! If you would like to come and would like to help narrow down the date, please let us know.

We know that many of you continue to remember us in your thoughts and prayers and we thank God for that.

Our love,
the Heplers