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A few months ago the names children chosen to go on Bert's Big Adventure were just that; names on a piece of paper. Yes, I knew some of the family history. Yes, we all got to meet once before the trip. But after BBA 2008 these names have come to life and each contributed to make this another mind-blowing trip.
A few months ago Marcella Genut was the girl with Muscular Dystrophy from Marietta. After the trip Marcella is the BBA child that has a connection to Ariel because Ariel doesn't use legs, either. She became a shrewd negotiator scoring a crazy amount of Ariel pins from other Disney visitors.
A few months ago Checota Martinez was the child in the wheelchair from a place called Flovilla. After the trip Checota is the gift with a family fiercely proud of their Native American Culture. His mother became a symbol of strength in her effort to hide the pain of her fight with ovarian cancer as she slowly walked with Checota around Disney.
A few months ago Kelly Easterwood was from the family that had two BBA kids going this year. After the trip she's the girl that demands a hug every time she interacts with you.
A few months ago Kendrick Newton was the kid going on the trip that never had a chance to have an athletic life because he legs were removed when he was 11 months old. After spending time with him Kendrick is the athletic kid that scurries around the floor at lightening speed using is arms as though they were his legs.
Ashley Wagner was the child with the girl with the inoperable brain tumor. Now she's the girl that ran to the front of the bus to sing country songs and demanded everybody stop making fun of me when I confessed I was scared to ride roller coasters.
Each BBA family has their own, beautiful, individual story about struggle and triumph. Each BBA family deserved and needed to be on this trip.
Because of your donations you all have given them the gift of time and memories together at the most magical place on earth. On behalf of all the families and the BBA staff (who I think get more out of this trip then the families), thank you so much for your support.
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