Desiree’ Cross had a biopsy last week. She met with the doctors yesterday and she is in a state of remission.She will be tested again in 6 months.She has residual chronic pain, but will live to overcome it!Thank you all for your prayers,donations and all means of support.I will be pleased to update you on her progress as she improves.The family is grateful for you all.

Grady is the best!

It has taken me a full day and a half to absorb the phenomenal impact of Thursday evening’s benefit and auction. The gathering of community, musicians, writers, auction donors and the entire staff of Eddie’s Attic combined to make a substantial impact on the financial burdens of our family.

The unflagging energies of Kodac Harrison, Eddie Owen, Stephanie Stuckey Benfield, and Alexa Adamo-Valverde cannot go unrecognized. This group of individuals worked tirelessly to recruit space, performers, auction donations, and press that ensured the success of the event.

Tim O’Donnell’s touching video of Desiree’, Cartman And Schroeder made in Desiree’s room at Grady Memorial Hospital enabled the family to thank everyone.

I want to thank Matthew Kahler who was joined by Michael Levine and Eric Litwin for opening a fabulous children’s section that had the adults moving their hands and heads around like a menagerie of beasties. Elise Witt is the quintessential songbird that somehow enables us to feel like we can sing out loud somewhere else besides the shower. Caroline’s personal story and Gullah songs were lovely and touching. Kodac’s song and story about his dog, Rudy, is one that we all relate to.

The second half opened with Lori Guarisco’s theatrical talents that transformed the stage mirroring the stormy elements outside the patio. She was joined by the combined musical talents of Bill Orsich and Will Fratesi; lighting compliments of Mackenzie and Carlton.

The Band of Desperate Men energized us all. Elise Witt reminded us that grownups can have fun, but also reminding us why we had gathered. Caroline and Emily were literally show stoppers as Emily paid homage to Caroline onstage as these two greats combined forces of musicianship and song that left me breathless.

The evening reached another pinnacle when Kodac brought Alexa onstage for a live auction that resulted in a bidding war that resulted in two winners for a 45 minute guitar lesson with Emily Saliers netting $2100-and matched by Emily. Matthew followed with his infectious percussion. Klimchak brought percussive performance to the stage. Rupert Fike gave a moving and witty reading followed by Angela Motter’s gutsy guitar and comedic monologue. Sonia Tetlow touched me with her memories of her first gig and mandolin. Kodac Harrison,who emceed the event finished with a song inspired by Cartman & Schroeder entitled “Pick Me Up”.

The Bone Marrow Drive was a success with 30 new donors.The home health care information was informative and grounding.

Michele Janko and Sherrie Jackson gave unending energy and flair to the auction.

The staff of Eddie’s gave professional and courteous service throughout the evening.

The crowd was awesome and festive on the patio and in the streets in the rain even as they were told the show was SOLD OUT!

Thank you doesn’t say it all, but I can’t say it enough.

Thank you.