30 Days of Derek

Today marks 30 days until what would have been Derek's 30th birthday. For a man suffering so much, he sure was kind to others and loved helping in any way he could. For the days leading up to his birthday, I have started a campaign of sorts for others to more consciously think about how their actions effect others. I don't know if Derek realized the legacy he was creating as he went about his life. In remembrance and celebration of him, I encourage others to think about doing some act of service for someone else. I have asked my friends on social media to post something they have done or something someone has done for them and hashtag it #30daysofderek.

For people looking to do good now, our family has started a fundraising team for the Susan Mortensen Turley Foundation. This foundation focuses on providing a weekend away for families dealing with cancer. Our family was lucky enough to be recipients while Derek was feeling well enough and it provided invaluable bonding time while being able to get away from everyday life.

You can check out our fundraising team here. Consider joining our team or donating if you so desire. Families like ours appreciate your generosity. Don't forget to post it! It's not bragging if it's for a good cause, right?

The New Year

The holidays were hard, I couldn't wait for them to end. We did do some fun things of which I will have posts for later: Light Up a Life, Denver, massive business growth and Christmas.

But the new year brings both relief and sadness. I have been looking forward to 2014 and all it will bring. For me, there is a sense of renewal and new beginnings.

At the same time, a year now separates me and my former life. I now no longer get to exist in the same year as Derek. I don't get to think about his birthday or Disneyland or feel like he just left me.

2014 will be a year of growth for our family. Last year brought change, some good but mostly bad. This year, I hope for the sake of our son, that it will restore some light that Derek took with him.

Don't let me down 2014. Although, I know that it is really up to me.