Honoree for National Philanthropy Day

Update: My wife and I went to the AFP National Philanthropy Day luncheon on Tuesday, November 14th at the Michael's on East restaurant as guests of the Neuro Challenge Foundation. The venue was packed and there was a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. Upon arriving I was kindly given the Certificate that you see above. I was one of 30 people and organizations that were being honored that day. After introductions and an opening speech by the NPD Chair, they began discussing the honorees, 6 at a time who were asked to stand up. I'm extremely thankful that I didn't have to give any kind of acceptance speech. After that, we had an excellent lecture by celebrated author, Karen Osborne on "The Power of Generosity and How It Transforms You, Your Community and Your World". Overall, it was a great experience that we both enjoyed very much. I am very thankful to the great folks at the Neuro Challenge Foundation for nominating me as an honoree for this event and for all that they do for the PD community.

I received an email from one of the good folks over at Neuro Challenge yesterday. It said, “I am pleased to let you know that Neuro Challenge has nominated you as an honoree for National Philanthropy Day through the Association of Fundraising Professionals Southwest Florida Chapter. We very much appreciate all you do as a volunteer for our organization. The awards ceremony/ luncheon will be on November 14th.” When I read this, I almost dropped my coffee mug. I couldn't believe it. Me, nominated as an honoree? I thought, there are so many other people working hard in the PD community, surely, they made a mistake. I wrote them back saying I’m not sure if they picked the right person to honor. They wrote back and said, “Roger you are so deserving if this nomination as your peer-to-peer support of the Parkinson's community is so inspiring and appreciated.” I can't tell everyone how thankful I am that I have the unique privilege of being able to lead this awesome support group! I don't do it for the recognition or possible awards and accolades, I do it because I truly care for everyone in our group. If I can help brighten someone’s day and or provide them with helpful information for battling this rotten disease, then that in itself is my reward. A big thanks to all of you for your feedback, suggestions and continued support. I couldn't do it without you!