To The Editor,
When my husband passed away from cancer in 2015, I was overwhelmed by how his past co-workers spoke of him, and how he was helping them and giving them chances when others wouldn’t. He wasn’t a famous sport personality; he wasn’t famous at all. He just gave of himself, and I wanted to keep that legacy alive. It was then I knew I wanted to start a memorial fund in his name.
To fund this I began making crafts, and I sold them at the local shows at Christmas. To that end, I was able to present a scholarship for $800 to a very deserving young man at Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute this graduation year. He sent me a lovely thank you note, which impressed me so much.
Yet, something was bothering me. I think it’s because it was written to just me. Really, everyone of this amazing community that bought from my stall at the three shows are just as much to thank as me. I can make the items, but you buying them was what helped make this a sizable scholarship to a young man going into the trades.
I just wanted to thank all of you who have placed special orders throughout last year and continue to do so this year. And thanks to those of you at the shows, who, when an item was $18, donated $20. You should all be very proud of the wonderful people you are, and I am humbled by your generosity.
With gratitude,
Linda Rutgers,
L’Orignal
