Overlapping circles

Cooper and Steve

From the moment that we suspected something was wrong with Steve, we've never felt alone.

Liz, Steve and Layne

Every step of the way, we have been enveloped by an incredible group of people. I think of you all as overlapping circles.

Lori, Steve and Wendy

Family members. Friends from W.T. White and Newman Smith high schools. From the University of Michigan, the University of North Texas and Texas Tech. From Holy Covenant UMC and Schreiber Memorial UMC. From Arthur Andersen, Children's Medical Center and Physicians for Children. From the Bryan-College Station Eagle, the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and the Dallas Morning News. From Belton, Lubbock, Carrollton and Frisco. From ECDP and Bledsoe. From PTA and basketball and soccer and Cub Scouts. From hospitals and doctors' offices. From "chance" meetings that we are convinced were no accident. Friends of those friends who we now embrace as our own.

Will and Steve

All of those circles were represented somehow Saturday -- whether in person at Kick the Damm Spot or in spirit. (I wish I had photos of each and every one of you!)

Aimee and Steve

Steve welcomed visitors from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a smile so big his face hurt. His voice, normally wrecked by the effects of tumor and medicine, was as strong as it's been in months. He watched our own children and those we love as if they're our own kick soccer balls in his honor. He received hugs from folks he hasn't been able to see in weeks or months and made some new friends.

Holly (holding Katie) and Morgan

Saturday was a significant symbol of the outpouring of love, prayers, support, help and gifts we have received. It is truly humbling when people spend their own time to help us and when they cheerfully give money that they have earned and saved for Steve's care.

Molli and Tom

We have been the blessed recipients of extraordinary kindness and generosity. You all have sustained our spirits. We are incredibly thankful.

Allison, Tyler, Phil, Jen, Steve, Tyra, Meghan, Ty and Kelly

Dylan, Melissa, Thalia and Carys (and Austin!)

Steve and Stuart

Andy and Adam