Two weeks ago, my 10-year-old daughter, Lauren, sent a letter to the Review asking for donations to send to her friend’s father who was recently deployed to Afghanistan. Our hearts, and those of Paul’s family, are completely overwhelmed by the response we have received. The small box that Lauren decorated and hung a little flag on has been filled to overflowing with supplies, money and most importantly, some amazingly heartfelt notes – both for our troops and for Lauren herself. I am incredibly proud of my daughter for coming up with this idea, and I am so very proud that this community has risen to the occasion far beyond what we could have hoped. The day that the letter was published, Paul’s oldest daughter said it made her day to know that someone was thinking of her dad. Paul, too, is very grateful.
We have been able to send five more boxes, with three more waiting for final filling and shipping. And we are getting new donations every day. I am including all the cards and notes so that Paul can share them with everyone. After the New Year, Lauren will have an update with her own thank you and perhaps the Review would allow us to share some of the more heartwarming stories. You have all made such a difference – not only for the troops, but in the heart of a child. We are very blessed and I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with love. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.
Lisa Haeger
Forest Park
