In the neutral zone – Being thankful

Wow, what a week! The support that was shown to our local law enforcement officers was amazing. The Back the Blue Glow Run was packed with more than 600 runners, numerous volunteers and sponsors. Jennifer Parson did a great job organizing this event, which I expect will continue to grow every year.

The Fallen Officers Candlelight Vigil held at Southside Baptist Church in memory of the fallen officers in the state of Georgia was truly memorable and fitting. If you have never attended, you need to. It will put everything in perspective. These men, women and K9s paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep us safe.

The rest of the week showed what our community is all about. I really loved seeing all of the restaurants and citizens contributing to the different agencies all week, not to mention the businesses and homes decorated in blue to show support for all of our officers. I am so proud to be a citizen of Houston County and was thrilled to share these experiences with my grandson, Dalton. I think it is important to show our children it’s not always about them. Each event we attended, he would ask questions and I would explain. At 5 years old, he gets how important it is to give back to the community. He is proud to be from Perry, Georgia, just ask him. He has an uncle, Travis, who is a Bibb County K9 officer, whom he idolizes. We are truly blessed to have Travis in our family; he is a great role model for Dalton.

We finished the week with the Aidan’s Fight 5K in Perry. Once again, the support from the residents of Houston County truly made me proud. They had 68 runners enter, not to mention the sponsors and volunteers. Aidan is a sweet young man who is battling leukemia. The support of his family, friends and community will see this young man through his difficult days. Aidan became my assistant photographer for the day; I think he is a natural. I loved watching his face as he really got into taking pictures. I feel truly blessed to get to know him and his family. God always has a plan and I believe he brought us together for a reason. Please say a special prayer for this young man and all of the children battling these terrible diseases.

One final thought, I want to give a big shout out to some special people at Houston Medical Center who made a terrible day bearable. Kyle was our ER nurse at Houston Medical Center. I can never thank him enough for everything he did; he really knows his stuff! Precious, our nurse on 2 north, and Lachantal, who was filling in as a tech Thursday night, both had great bedside manners and did everything they could to make my daughter comfortable. You can tell they really love what they do and care about the patients they take care of. Dr. Deighton was our hero. After talking with so many doctors who wouldn’t listen, he did. I think we both could have hugged him when he told us his plan. I can’t forget Dr. Cabasares, a truly great friend and awesome physician. Thank you for taking care of my daughter. Lastly, thank you Sonny Watson, for running a top-notch hospital.

Take time to count your blessings and have some fun today!

HHJ News