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It is with a very heavy heart that I inform everyone that Gavin lost his battle with his terrible disease on August 4, 2007. His fight was one made with the utmost courage. I find solice in the fact that I know he is now free of any pain and peaceful in heaven. Please take a moment to watch the You Tube video that was created in Gavin's memory by his loving family. I also welcome you to read about Gavin and visit his website. I truly believe that everthing happens for a reason, and I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to meet little Gavin. He, forever, changed my life, and I'm sure he will touch yours as well.
The following is the original Gavin page unedited.
I recently chaired a fundraiser for Gavin Brunin, a local Arizona boy who has been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of lukemia. The event was a huge success as we raised over $15,000 for his medical expenses. To all of you that contributed, thank you very much. For those that would still like to help Gavin please click on the following link to visit his website:
Gavin's Website
Gavin is a very sweet, strong, and amazingly smart little boy. I feel truly blessed that our paths crossed in such an unorthodox and unlikely way. Gavin and his whole family have quickly become great friends. Gavin is still battling this horrible disease and now, more than ever, I ask that you please keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Team Gavin Rocks!! Fight The Fight!!
Here's how it all began...
On September 13, 2005 there was a story in the West Valley View newspaper about a little boy named Gavin Brunin who was diagnosed with a JMML. This is a form of juvenile lukemia so rare that it accounts for only 1% of all juvenile lukemias.
Click Here For The Entire Newspaper Article
The story touched my heart so deeply that I felt compelled to do something to help. It would have been very easy for me to write a check to help Gavin's cause but I decided I really wanted to do something extraordinary for him.
After visiting Gavin's website: www.GavinBrunin.com I contacted Joanie Curtis and Brian Bloomer, family friends of the the Brunin's, who assist with their fundraising efforts. I asked for permission to chair a fundraiser and they eagerly obliged. The initial idea I expressed to them was a benefit dinner and silent auction for Gavin and they were excited about the idea. We were able to secure the Wigwam Resort's Main Ballroom and our event was quickly dubbed the "Gala For Gavin."
It was not until October 31, 2005 that I finally had the opportunity to meet little Gavin, his brother, and his mom. Mike Burkett, of the West Valley View, arranged our meeting for a follow up story that made the front cover. At the time he was only five but his strength and resilence inspired me. Click Here For The Entire Second Article.
From the day the first story was printed in the paper until the day of the event was only 58 days! We had less than two monts to get this planned and executed from start to finish! It was somewhat of a whirlwind trying to make it a success, but in the end I think the event turned out great!
Update: 11/29/06
Today Gavin is in Michigan where he continues his treatments for this horrible disease. I keep contact with him and his family via emails and the board on his website. Gavin is a fighter and according to his mom he is "full of energy." I am always amazed at his resiliency and courage.
He was recently granted a trip to Disney World through the Make-A-Wish foundation and the photos of that trip are on his website as well.
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