One Amazing Family

So, Jim and I headed to Lancaster on Sunday night to drop off the clothing, toys and check to the Goodley family. Not knowing what to expect, we were somewhat apprehensive when pulling up to the front of their townhouse. We were concerned about Tonesha's state of mind and wondering how she was managing to take care of these 5 children all by herself while Kellop is in the hospital doing his best to fight the leukemia and return home to his family. From the time we walked through their door until we left about 45 minutes later (and that was because the kids needed to get to bed because it was a school night) we were so amazed at the job these parents have done with their beautiful, intelligent, amazing children. From Malachi who is the oldest at 9 years old (he will turn 10 on Dec. 30)to Faith who is about 1-yr old and was walking all around and would give you a hug and a kiss if you would ask for one, they are an an amazing family. We have attached a few pictures that we took while visiting with them.

This is exactly why the DJD Foundation was formed and are so pleased that they were referred to us because there couldn't be a more deserving family than this one. Please keep Tonesha, Kellop, Malachi, Destiny, Isiah, Kamia and Faith in your prayers. Kellop had his stem cell transplant today at Hershey. We are hoping to be in touch with Tonesha later this week to find out how it is going.

As we were leaving the Goodley home the children thanked us for coming and said "God bless you". Jim and I told them it was a pleasure meeting them and spending some time in their home.

We just want to say a huge "thank you" to all of you who have given your time and support to the foundation because Sunday night was one of the most gratifying night's we can remember in quite some time.

-Jim and Donna

The Goodley Family

Happy Holidays everyone! The foundation has received it's first referal from, Hershey Medical Center. The family is from Lancaster, the father Kellop ( 30 years old) has ALL, and he and his wife Tonesha have 5 children aged 9 to 1. The foundation is helping pay for some living and medical expenses., but we are asking for your help to provide some things for the family and children for Christmas. The children are in need of clothes and coats. Their sizes are size 14- girl, size 12- boy, size 8 boy. size 6 - girl, and size 12 -18 months -girl. Kellop is laso having his transplant soon and will be oin the hospital over Christmas, so I am trying to collect a few toys and games for the children to open on Christmas with their father. The father needs a hat, scarf, and slippers. For anyone who would like to donate just leave a comment here and you can either drop off at my house in Lewisburg or at Donna and Jim's at 200 North Maple Street Ephrata. * If they are not home, feel free to leave on the back porch and leave them a message letting them know you left it. The deadline is next Thursday December 17th. Let's help bring this family some joy in their time of need! Thank you all so much,and have a wonderful holiday season.

* Also mark your calendars for the 2nd annual beef and beer benefit to be held at Finnigan's Wake in Philadelphia from 4-7 on January 23rd. It'ds all you can eat and drink, and it was a lot of fun last year!

Dec 6 2009

Thanks to all who kept Derrick in their thoughts today< lit candles in his memory and paid tribute to his enthusiastic spirit!

Observance Update

Thanks to all who have responded to our "24 Hours of Remembrance". We have been overwhelmed with the response and have all the hours covered by different individuals/families participating to honor Derrick by lighting a candle. Derrick will certainly have his huge smile plastered on his face for the whole day as he looks down from heaven and witnesses all the candles lit in his memory.

In addition, please keep Mindy in your thoughts and prayers as she tackles another marathon tomorrow. She continues to be an inspiration to us all!

-Donna