We all have talents.  Some of us are creative. Some of us are intelligent. Some of us are athletic. Some are good with tools, cooking, listening....you get the idea.  Some of us consider ourselves lucky when we meet these people.  That's me! Not the talented one, I'm the one who feels lucky to meet them.  Many, many years ago, while working the fields of Wilmington, MA as an Athletic Trainer I met my first Smith kid.  Little did I know that his injury would begin a long journey of getting to know and taking care of a large family. The Smith Family. As an Athletic Trainer I became a person who was frequently present when things went awry on the fields, and if I wasn't there, I probably got a phone call shortly after.

graham smithSenior photo session at Wilmington HS Baily SmithSenior photo session at Wilmington HS

 Two of the five kids pictured here.

Bailey and Graham.

These Smith kids are pretty amazing.  They are all kind, hardworking, honest, intelligent and yes, athletic kids.  Even more amazing, are their parents, Kevin and Deb. If you know them then you don't even need to read any further. They are just solid people. They see the best in each other. They give up endless hours of their time to volunteer for youth organizations.  They coach, they travel, they support every aspect of their children's lives.  If you are a close friend you know, far better than me, that they would do anything for a friend or family member.  My favorite part (particularly from Deb) if you ask them a question, you're gonna get an answer, not a fluffy, wordy, don't wanna hurt your feelings answer, but a real answer, and you better be ready for it.  I have never known Deb to back down from a fight, especially the one she has been in for many years.

If you don't know, Deb was diagnosed with cancer a few years ago.  When I first heard the news, I cried.  And after a few minutes I quickly reminded myself that she actually is the strongest woman I know.  And so I should stop feeling sorry for her and put my game face on because there is work to do. That's what Deb would do, she would get to work.  Deb has proven year after year, month after month, treatment after treatment, test after test, that she is a fighter and a survivor. 

Which brings me to the point of this blog.  For the past three years, a fundraiser has be held in her honor to help not only the Smith Family with medical costs but also other families in Wilmington that have a loved one fighting cancer.  They provide assistance with co-pays, travel and parking help, gift cards for meals, but more than anything; they care.  They pass on this love and generosity to those who need it and it seems lately that is rare in this world.

smith strong

The money is raised from ticket sales, silent auctions and raffled prizes.  Every year I have donated a free family portrait package to their raffle table.

I love being part of events like this.  I think it shows the best in all of us.  The world needs more Smith Families.

If you would like to be a part of this wonderful event or donate to this amazing cause that helps out local families go to www.smithstrong.org