Apr. 3, 2007
My "Real Girl"
Hi Friends,
It was suggested to me that I enter my daughter Rebecca in the "Real Girl" contest sponsored by the American Girl company. I worked hard writing this entry and received feedback and constructive critique from several of my friends. I'm grateful for their help! I wanted to share the entry as some have asked to read it.
The company indicates that winners will hear by May 1st. We'll post if we hear any good news. Enjoy!
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While reading about your search for the 2007 Real Girl, I couldn't help but think of our daughter, Rebecca. As the second child and only girl in a family with 4 brothers, she has been confronted with a difficult family crisis, and she has certainly risen to the challenge.
Rebecca was elated to learn that she had a little sister on December 16, 2006 when we welcomed Eliana Joy to our family. She spent many days praying for, anticipating and helping to prepare for the baby and it was difficult for her tender heart when she learned that Eliana was born with congenital heart defects, in addition to Down Syndrome. Eliana would have to spend time in the Special Care (NICU) nursery and in the months to come, face open heart surgery.
Rebecca visited her new sister in the NICU, and after seeing her struggle along with the other NICU newborns, she began to think of ways she could help babies that needed special care. Her compassionate heart led her to make two knitted hats, which were given to the NICU nursery. Continuing her efforts, Rebecca began making beaded bracelets, deciding she would sell them in an effort to raise funds for babies needing heart surgery.
"Wholehearted" is the name that Rebecca chose for her business, representing the whole heart she wants for her sister and other babies. Rebecca works diligently to make creative and unique bracelets, all the while helping take care of her younger brothers when Eliana requires special care from me - a feeding tube and another hospital stay. She has stepped up to the responsibilities with love to assist our family through this incredibly difficult time.
Rebecca wants to share her vision of helping babies with heart defects. Her compassion, coupled with the beautiful bracelets, impressed her customers as she was raising money. Her concern for these special babies is the driving force behind her fundraising. She tells potential customers about her sister and the desire to help babies in need. Initially she went door to door in our neighborhood, selling her bracelets and raising $72. I encouraged her to try to make it to $100, and then she could donate all of the money to Duke Children's Hospital where Eliana is being treated and will have surgery to repair her heart.
Rebecca continued to make bracelets and was offered several opportunities to sell at other venues. Gathering her courage and relying on her faith, she decided to take advantage of these opportunities for fundraising. As she shares her heart with others, the response has been overwhelming. She has donated over 100 hours and raised over $1100 for other babies needing heart repair. In April, she will be attending a special needs conference to raise more money. This conference will occur while Eliana is in the hospital recovering from her own heart surgery.
I am so proud of her diligence, creativity and generousity. Rebecca is working hard to make a difference in the lives of others, a quality I believe represents a real American Girl!
Comments
Apr. 3, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Emily
I have no words, only tears.
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Apr. 3, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by booknhome
Wonderfully written post about a truly wonderful girl. Win the contest or not, your daughter is truly a Real American Daughter of the King. What a blessing to you and to her little sister.
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Apr. 3, 2007 - What a blessing she is!
Posted by Anonymous
Hoping she wins and hoping that one day I can buy one or more of those bracelets. Any chance that could happen?
Love,
Elysa Mac
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Apr. 3, 2007 - What a wonderful tribute to her, Leslie.
Posted by Tami
She is a special young lady, and she is certainly showing God's love to others through her ministry.
Tami
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Apr. 4, 2007 - Very Nice!
Posted by Alana
You did an excellent job Leslie! Can't wait to hear!
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Apr. 6, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Ara
What an amazing essay, wow. Your daughter is so amazing, and you aswell as her mother and role model! I am honored to 'know' you and read your blog! Thanks for taking the time to share this with us!
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Apr. 7, 2007 - That is just remarkable!
Posted by healthyhomeschool
She has your sweetness! I know you must be proud of her taking her energy and concern and putting it into something so helpful! I am just amazed!
Lynn
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Apr. 10, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by 3boyz
what an amazing little girl you have!! You are truly blessed. I will be praying for Elaine as she goes into surgery.
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Apr. 11, 2007 - beautiful
Posted by berrymorin
This is such a touching and inspirational essay. It truly shows what one person can do to contribute. She is a terrific young lady. You are an outstanding parent.
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Apr. 18, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by quietcajun
WOW! This is amazing... Your Rebecca is a wonderful girl!
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