I do not even know where to begin with my experience this past weekend.  Do I start by telling you how sad or how wonderful it was.  I think it best to start with the sadness because it got a lot better.  It was an amazing experience and I hope more of you will be able to attend in the future.  I will tell my personal story with a short photo journal.

Walking into the room  and seeing Craig's name on the Tribute Wall for the first time was overwhelming, to say the least. 



Then, Shelly added his photo to the 'candle' - joining those who had gone before him. Another emotional moment!



We then lit candles and placed them on the table in front of our loved one's name on the Tribute Wall. Shelly needed a little help - the darn lighters were not too easy to light.  We then walked over and put our candles under Craig's name.



Observing Emily as she looks at the wall and is amazed at how many families are suffering.  She was taking in the realization she is not alone in her pain.



But, it does gets better - Shelly received a standing ovation when their award was announced.  There was whistling and shouts of praise as she approached the podium.  I was shown again how much love there was in that room for my little sister and for Craig's memory. 



Shelly gave her profound acceptance and challenge to everyone to continue to fight for a cure.  (The background was black and I was too far away - but I did want to pass the photo along.)  She spoke from her heart and there was not a dry eye in the house.



Then, another standing ovation as she returns to her seat (she is in the middle in the red dress) - again, with whistles and shouting!  When it was all over she was swarmed by people seeking advise on fund raising and showing their personal support.  She raised 107K that night - the first time a plea for funding has ever been challenged at a Symposium.




Dr. Taub showing us his award.  He is a very quiet  and humble man.  You would never know by talking to him the impact he has had on so many lives.  I could see why Shelly and Craig thought so highly of him.  He is well respected and honored within the community.



Then, here is our wonderful Dr. Chabot who kept our darling Craigie alive for almost 11 yrs!  He took the microphone when everyone was done speaking - praising and honoring the life Craig lead with his supportive wife and daughter.  They only made his job that much easier. He is an amazing doctor - you could just see how much he loved the Kozicki's.  He was a pleasure to meet!  You would all just love him, too!!!



So, that was a snapshot of the weekend. I really do not know how supportive I was, I think I cried more than Shelly and Emily!  I was glad to be there and I hope I was support to them in some small way.

I love you, Shelly and Emily!

Phyllis (a.k.a. Auntie)