Today Is The Auction!!

Update!! Today is the auction for Benson and Claire and we hope you find the time to stop over at A Place To Bloom to view the many great items donated by fellow artists and craftspeople. The auction will run from today 12/10 through Saturday 12/12 so if you can, please stop by and take a peak before it ends on Saturday. It has been so great to learn about this amazing family and participate in the auction as well. I am sure that it has been a great experience for all involved. If you have not already, please take the time to read about Benson and Claire below and then hop on over to The Auction and take a peak!

Many times in life the suffering of others becomes overwhelming and possibly too devastating to think about for any length of time. We tend to look the other way because it is just too painful to ponder over. We feel helpless because of the limitations of our own abilities to help. But then, every once in awhile the opportunity to help someone in great need presents itself right in front of our face and we just know in our heart that immediate action is required. And then we rejoice in the fact that here is an opportunity where we CAN help and make a difference is such a simple and joyful way! That opportunity came about for me today while blog hopping when I cam across the story of these two beautiful children in need.

"Benson and Claire were born with a rare genetic disease in which their liver produces too much oxalate--called primary hyperoxaluria. Claire's condition has progressed much faster than Benson's. She has been on dialysis since she was 3 months old and is on dialysis 3 hours a day, 6 days a week. She is now on the waiting list to receive a combined kidney / liver transplant. It is expected Benson will eventually need similar transplants. visit www.cotaforbensonandclaires.com for more information about COTA and Benson and Claire's medical journey.

Understandably, they are in great need of financial assistance for their continuing care. I understand personally the financial impact transplantation care can require.

The reason this story touched my heart so much is the fact that my own father has been awaiting a kidney transplant for several years himself. He has been strong and courageous in doing his part to stay healthy and has become very disciplined in his routine. He must dialyze every 3 hours through the peritoneal cavity at home to remove deadly toxins from his body until a transplant comes. He does this at home every 3 hours of the day and gets a short rest through the night. He has remained active and has really made this taxing routine a way of life. He goes on trips and works on many home building projects and has lots of hobbies.

Because I could relate to what these children were going through, I was so thrilled when I learned that A Place To Bloom would be holding a silent auction on December 10th to raise funds for the continuing care of these great kids! The silent auction will feature many items from fellow artists, bloggers and others who have been moved to donate as well. I will be donating the recently made Chiyogami pendant that I posted about several days ago.

If you can, I urge you to stop by A Place To Bloom for further information on how you too can help, participate or simply leave encouraging comments for the family of these two bright children. Also, another way you can help is to post Benson and Claire's blog banner on your blog or website to help get the word out. The banner is a direct link over to the family's personal website where they provide frequent updates on how the kids are doing, the things they are up to and the daily chuckles they provide for their family. I know for a fact that posting this banner makes a difference because after all, that is exactly how I came across the story of these wonderful children myself!